Friday, 7 February 2025

50Th in Himalayas

Celebrating the Himalayas on a 50th Birthday

A journey to a valley once known as Himachal’s best-kept secret—special just like this milestone celebration with dear friends.

Welcoming Dhiraj Maskara Sir & Group to the Himalayas!

Itinerary Overview

Day 01: Arrival & Unwinding by the Holy Tirthan River

  • Arrival in Chandigarh – Our cabs will pick you up and take you on a scenic drive through the Himalayas.
  • Enjoy the smooth 4-lane highway that gradually transitions into the bumpy yet thrilling Himalayan roads.
  • Check-in at Sunshine Himalayan Cottage – A boutique stay that perfectly blends slow and rustic tourism.
  • Relax by the river – Take a walk along the holy Tirthan River, soak in the tranquility, or just sit by the banks and let the mountains welcome you.
  • Slow evening – Enjoy local Himachali tea and a relaxed dinner under the starry sky.

Day 02: Waterfall Hike & Fishing

  • Wake up to crisp mountain air & a hearty breakfast.
  • Explore a nearby waterfall – A short and scenic hike to a hidden waterfall in the valley.
  • Fishing experience – Try your hand at traditional trout fishing in crystal-clear Himalayan waters.
  • Leisurely lunch – Enjoy a relaxed meal by the riverside or at the cottage.
  • Easy evening – Enjoy slow moments, chit-chat, and unwind at the bonfire.

Day 03: Rustic Village & Birthday Celebration

  • Easy morning & slow breakfast.
  • Drive to Sarchi Village – A hidden Himalayan gem with wooden houses, rolling meadows, and breathtaking views.
  • Lunch in the open meadows – Celebrate amidst nature with a special birthday lunch under the open sky.
  • Tree Plantation Ceremony – A meaningful way to celebrate this milestone by giving back to nature.
  • Evening bonfire & birthday celebration – A cozy evening with music, stories, and warm Himalayan hospitality.

Day 04: Himalayan Sun, Rock Painting & Local Shopping

  • Relaxed morning basking in the Himalayan sun.
  • Rock painting session – Express creativity by painting stones, an artistic souvenir to take home.
  • Explore local markets – Shop for handmade Himalayan crafts, woolens, and organic products.
  • Farewell lunch – A special last meal in the valley before heading back.
  • Drive back to Chandigarh – Depart with memories of a lifetime and a heart full of the Himalayas.

This journey will be all about slow experiences, meaningful moments, and celebrating life in the embrace of the mountains.

Looking forward to hosting this special celebration!

From Dev Bhoomi to Drug Bhoomi



Himachal’s Silent War: Fighting the Drug Epidemic Together

A Land of Gods Turning into a Land of Addiction?

Himachal Pradesh, often revered as the land of Devtas (deities), is now facing an alarming transformation—one that threatens its future generations. The state, once known for its pristine beauty and cultural richness, is slowly becoming a hub for drug addiction. The battle against drugs has always been an uphill war, but with the rise of synthetic drugs in the digital era, the challenge has become more complex than ever.

The Synthetic Menace: A New Age of Addiction

           

Unlike traditional drugs, synthetic drugs are far more dangerous and addictive. Manufactured using potent chemicals, they hook individuals in a much shorter time and lead to severe health consequences. Another concerning issue is the growing misconception around cannabis, particularly the belief that smoking a joint is harmless. Many cases of psychological disorders today are linked to prolonged cannabis use, yet society continues to downplay its dangers.

What’s even more shocking is how deeply addiction has penetrated families. There are cases where addicted children have introduced synthetic drugs like chitta to their own parents, claiming it as medication. When addiction reaches this level, it is no longer an individual problem—it’s a crisis that threatens every household.

The System’s Limitations: Why We Can’t Rely Solely on Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies and the administration do their best, but their resources are limited. The truth is, drug networks operate within a corrupt system where enforcement is often selective, and those who should be stopping the crisis sometimes turn a blind eye. Meanwhile, de-addiction centers, which should be at the forefront of the battle, face unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles. Government regulations make it difficult for them to function efficiently, with officials enforcing rules they themselves barely understand.

So, if we cannot fully rely on the administration, what can we do?

Community Action: The Only Way Forward

The fight against drugs is not just the government's responsibility—it is a collective battle that requires community involvement. We cannot afford to think that this is only a problem for other families. Addiction is an invisible disease, creeping into homes without warning. It’s time to break the stigma and replace shame with action.

What Can We Do?

  1. Form Community Watch Groups
    Small neighborhood groups can act as the eyes and ears of the administration, keeping track of suspicious activities and offering immediate support to families at risk.

  2. School-Based Awareness Programs
    Prevention should start early. Schools need to educate children about the dangers of drugs through interactive awareness programs, workshops, and real-life testimonies from recovering addicts.

  3. Promote Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Meetings
    NA meetings provide peer support for addicts who want to recover. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of these meetings or feel hesitant to attend due to stigma. It is crucial to spread awareness about these life-saving sessions.

  4. Decriminalization of Addiction & Focus on Rehabilitation
    Addicts are often treated as criminals rather than individuals in need of medical and psychological help. Shifting the focus from punishment to rehabilitation can create real change.

  5. Zero-Tolerance for Corruption in Drug Cases
    Community members must demand stricter accountability from law enforcement agencies. No officer should be allowed to protect drug networks in exchange for money or power.

A Call to Action: Let’s Fight This Together

This is not just a blog—it is a call to action. If we do not act now, addiction will reach every home, every school, and every community. The fight against drugs is a war that cannot be fought alone. We must stand together, educate, take action, and protect the future of our youth.

Are you ready to take a step forward? Let’s stop treating this crisis as a matter of shame and start fighting it as a community mission. Share this message, talk about it in your circles, and be the change that Himachal desperately needs.

Thursday, 6 February 2025

Dream Project

A Home in the Himalayas: A Community Rooted in Nature & Art**  

A serene sanctuary high in the mountains, where the air is crisp, the skies are endless, and the view stretches across majestic peaks. A place where the rhythm of life is slow, intentional, and deeply connected to nature.  


We are creating a **community for dreamers, artists, and nature lovers**—people who believe in preserving the environment while living in harmony with it.  


Why Join Us?


- **Breathtaking Location** – Wake up to panoramic views of the Himalayas, with a lush forest right at your doorstep. Watch the snowfall in winter and paint the sky with colors in autumn.  

- **Space for Gardening** – Grow your own food, plant wildflowers, or create a medicinal herb garden. Let the earth be your teacher.  

- **An Inspiring Art Studio** – A space designed for creativity, where you can sculpt, paint, write, or simply be inspired by the beauty around you.  

- **A Chill Space to Reflect** – Cozy corners to sit, unwind, and connect with fellow community members over a cup of tea.  

- **Starry Nights & Bonfire Evenings** – Far from city lights, the night sky is a masterpiece. Experience the magic of sleeping under a billion stars.  


**Who is This For?


- **Artists & Creatives** who want a peaceful environment to create  

- **Nature Enthusiasts & Conservationists** who believe in sustainable living  

- **Slow Travelers & Wanderers** looking for a meaningful place to stay long-term  

- **Anyone Who Dreams of a Simpler, More Intentional Life**  


Our Values


- **Preserve & Protect Nature** – We build sustainably using mud, wood, and stone, keeping the land as untouched as possible.  

- **Community Over Competition** – We help each other grow, learn, and create.  

- **Self-Sufficiency** – From growing food to harnessing solar energy, we believe in reducing our footprint.  

- **Art & Expression** – We encourage creativity, storytelling, and the sharing of knowledge.  


## **How to Be Part of This Dream?**  


We are inviting like-minded individuals to **co-create this space with us**—whether by contributing skills, resources, or simply by being present and supporting the vision.  


**If this speaks to your soul, let's connect and make it happen.**  


Would you be interested in joining a community like this?