The Finding Chapter 1

​As a child, did you ever wonder why elders are so obsessed with visiting temples every single week, or how they could love spending hours there?

​It was a constant question in my mind. My grandmother would stay at the temple for hours, and as a kid, I just couldn't grasp the appeal. I was never an atheist, but I certainly wasn't spiritual either.

But as the saying goes: what is meant for you will eventually find you.

​And so, it found me.

​It all started the month before Shravan—the holy month dedicated to Lord Shiva, when devotees observe various fasts to show their dedication.

 Out of nowhere, a thought struck me: What if I tried it too?

Knowing myself, strict fasting was out of the question, but I decided I could at least commit to a purely vegetarian diet for the entire month. I am someone who relies heavily on instinct, and though my mind wondered where this sudden urge came from, I chose to follow it.As a dedicated non-vegetarian, it was incredibly difficult at first.
​But I stuck through it.

And slowly, without me even realizing how, a sense of love, respect, and deep devotion began to take root inside me.

​I have always loved places with history. Around Mahashivratri, since my family had recently relocated, I started searching for a Shiva temple nearby. I discovered a beautiful one just a few kilometers away. The architecture was stunning, but it was the aura that truly captured me—a distinct, serene energy that left you feeling instantly happy and content.

Before long, whenever my mind felt chaotic or disturbed, that temple became the place I would run to. I started watching shows, reading books, and learning everything I could about Shiva. I fell completely in love.

​Looking back, there were so many moments in my life where He helped me through. It wasn't through grand, loud miracles, but simply by being there.

 Everywhere I went, I would stumble upon something related to Him. Or perhaps, it’s more accurate to say He kept finding me.

​I remember visiting the ancient Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, completely unaware of its deep connection to Mahadev. As I walked around, I noticed a crowd gathered around a secluded structure. Intrigued, I walked over to see what was there. Tucked quietly away in the dark, almost as if it were waiting just for me, was a beautiful Shivlinga. In a place I least expected, He found me once again.

​Another moment that stays close to my heart was the very first time I drove a car completely on my own. My mother was super nervous and scared for me, and honestly, the anxiety was real. But instead of waiting for a driver or calling for help, I took a deep breath and imagined Him sitting right beside me in the passenger seat. That quiet thought instantly dissolved my fear, giving me all the strength and confidence I needed to take the wheel and drive.

​Then there was that unforgettable family trip to the mountains—my very first proper experience with high altitudes. After four grueling hours in a cab, with half the journey still ahead of us, I was utterly exhausted, dizzy, and suffocated. The driver finally pulled over at a roadside cafe so we could freshen up. Stepping out of the car, I was highly irritated and miserable.

​Then, I turned around.

​Right there, standing majestic against the backdrop, was a massive, breathtakingly beautiful marble statue of Lord Shiva. It might sound strange, but the moment I saw it, a smile broke across my face. A sudden wave of determination washed over me, bringing a quiet thought: "Ab jo hoga, dekha jaayega" (Come what may, I'll handle it).

​The sheer amount of strength that enveloped me in that moment was unlike anything I had ever felt before.

​They say that if you have faith, anything is possible. For me, that faith is Him. 🩵