Choosing the Test Match Life in the Era of IPL

In the frenetic world of today, where life often feels like an endless IPL match with its fast pace and constant excitement, I made a decision to step off the field and embrace the tranquility of a test match. This decision led me from the bustling streets of New Delhi to the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh back in 2017, and it has been a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment ever since.

Leaving behind my agency job in the heart of the capital was not an easy choice, but it was one that I knew I needed to make. The chaos of city life had begun to wear me down, and I longed for a simpler, slower pace of existence. I was ready to trade the hustle and bustle for the quietude of nature, and I was prepared to put in the hard work necessary to make that transition.

For me, the allure of the mountains was irresistible. I had always found solace in their majesty, and I knew that I wanted to build a life where I could be closer to them. But it wasn't just about escaping the city; it was also about embracing a lifestyle that aligned more closely with my values and passions.

One of those passions was travel. I had always been enamored with the idea of exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. And so, when I made the move to the hills, I knew that I wanted to share that love of travel with others. That's what led me to open a cafe in Old Manali in 2018.

The cafe quickly became more than just a business; it became a hub for travelers who would swap stories and forge connections. Sitting down with my guests over a cup of tea, listening to their adventures, and sharing my own became the highlight of my day. It was a chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of human connection in a world that often feels disconnected.

In late 2018, after getting married, my husband and I decided to relocate the cafe to Vashisht, along with a small homestay at his ancestral apple orchard space. The decision to move away from the more touristy area of Old Manali was a deliberate one. We wanted to create a space that was off the beaten path, where only the most adventurous travelers would venture.

Located in a secluded spot accessible only by hiking up a set of stairs, our little corner of paradise offers a respite from the noise and chaos of modern life. And while I initially worried that we would miss out on the foot traffic of Old Manali, I soon came to appreciate the slower, more deliberate pace of life that we had adopted.

Today, our cafe and homestay have grown, and we are in the process of expanding even further. But amidst all the changes and growth, one thing remains constant: our commitment to the art of slow travel. Our guests come not just for a place to stay, but for an experience—a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves and nature.

Living in the mountains has taught me the importance of taking the time to appreciate the little things—to notice how the seasons change, to listen to the birdsong in the morning, to savor the simple pleasure of a quiet moment with loved ones. It's a way of life that feels increasingly rare in today's fast-paced world, but one that I am grateful to have found.

In a world that often feels like it's moving at the speed of light, I have chosen to live life at the pace of a test match. And in doing so, I have found a sense of peace and fulfillment that I never knew was possible. So, while others may be caught up in the excitement of the IPL, I am content to sit back, relax, and enjoy the slow, steady rhythm of the game.