TODAY I write to you from the newest state of India, Telangana.
I have been blessed to witness such a historic moment in the lives of millions, their energy and happiness feel justified after the 60 years of sacrifice.
Though I cannot connect in any way to the pride they hold for their state, I was very much a part of their celebrations in Hyderabad.
Whilst trying to tick off my list of ‘100 things to Experience in India’, this experience was the 101st and definitely worthwhile.
Clearly when I wrote about India not being a mistake, it caught the attention of a few. A Fijian couple, Mr and Mrs Gopal, who had settled in Canada decades ago, read the article, and in the course of their visit to Hyderabad made the greatest effort to meet up during their short stay.
Reconnecting with them in this slightly crowded part of the world made me realise that no matter where we are now, Fiji will always be home.
It was also great to note that no matter where we are in the world we browse through The Fiji Times as a means to stay connected to our homeland. It was while conversing with them that I realised how deeply India had impacted me.
I wanted India to be a place of fond memories for me, and a place where I made a difference in the lives of people who were half a world away, just like I did back home.
The intense travelling hours between cities, the preps for exams and classes, the age-old architecture, the variant tastes and aromas have all been an essential component. I thought at many moments that I may be losing touch of my real self while indulging in the work here, however, I am still me — a better version of me; a more confident, loving, happy version of myself. This makes me happy because I really didn’t want to lose my identity while away from home.
At times in India I felt like I had lost a part of who I was. At times, I wasn’t really sure what I was doing and who I was. I truly believe that when we are out of our comfort zones we are forced to deal with the reality, that is ourselves.
Now as I look back at my time in India, all I can think about is how fortunate I am to have had such a wonderful experience.
My move to India not only allowed me to see a completely different side of the world, but I was also able to establish bonds with so many interesting and amazing people.
This has been such a spiritual, physical, and emotional journey for me. I came to India and found myself. I had an empty heart and it was made full. I had a sour taste in my mouth, and that was quickly replaced with a sweet one (and often times a spicy one) . I had an unclear picture that was brought into focus. At the end of everything, I was me … the better version of me.
As I start to wind things up in India and prepare for return, I can feel a sudden change to my outlook on life here —like time is running out and I need to be able to accomplish everything I possibly can.
This two-year journey has not only developed my academics but also enabled me to professionally experience India and personally grow as an individual. I speak on behalf of the Fiji-Hyderabad community that we are grateful to ICCR and the Indian High Commission for this amazing opportunity.
* Betty Barka is a final year MA student in Hyderabad, India .
