Automobile Expeditioner- Bharulata Patel-Kamble

31/12/2024

29/12/2024

CATCHING UP WITH AN OLD FRIEND- Today was truly special as we had the chance to reconnect with Yagnesh, our dear friend and now a senior corporate banker managing big projects like Adanis! It’s hard to believe how time flies—he started as our bank manager and from then our professional relations turned into friendship over a decade ago, and has since become like family to us.

Seeing him interact with our boys, who he remembers as toddlers with milk bottles, filled our hearts with nostalgia. Watching their bond grow from professional to personal brings back so many beautiful memories.

Here’s to friendships that stand the test of time, and to the incredible journeys we all embark on! Cheers to many more catch-ups and cherished moments ahead. ❤️

27/12/2024

SOLO DRIVE THROUGH 32 COUNTIES-
Solo driving through 32 countries as a woman and mother of two children is undoubtedly a challenging and remarkable experience. It certainly requires courage, determination, and careful planning to embark on such a journey, leaving behind the comforts and familiarity of home to explore the unknown. This adventurous undertaking is not for the faint of heart, but for those bold enough to step out of their comfort zone and embrace the world with open arms.

The decision to travel solo through 32 countries was not one that was made lightly, especially when I was a mother responsible for the well-being of two young children. Leaving my kids at home while I embarked on this journey evoked feelings of guilt and anxiety, but it was also empowering and liberating. As a mother, it is important to remember that taking care of yourself and fulfilling my own desires and passions is just as important as taking care of my children. By following my dreams and pursuing my own happiness, I was certainly setting an example for my children to do the same.

Embarking on a solo driving adventure through 32 countries as a woman has its own unique set of challenges. Women travelers often face safety concerns, cultural differences, and language barriers that can make navigating foreign lands a daunting task. It is important to be aware of the surroundings, trust the instincts, and take necessary precautions to ensure own safety and well-being throughout the journey. By staying informed, being alert, and seeking help when needed, one can navigate through different countries with confidence and grace, which is what I exactly did.

Driving through 32 countries also requires careful planning and organization. From mapping out my route to arranging accommodations and ensuring my vehicle to be in good working order, there are many logistical aspects to consider before embarking on such a journey. It was important to research each country's laws and regulations regarding driving, obtain necessary permits and documents, and have a backup plan in case of emergencies. By being prepared and proactive, one can minimize risks and maximize the enjoyment of the solo driving adventure, like I did.

Leaving my children at home while I travel through 32 countries was a difficult decision to make. As a mother, my first priority has always been the well-being and safety of my children. It was important to make arrangements for their care and ensure they are in capable hands while I was away. This was involved enlisting the help of friends ad family members or trusted caregivers to look after our children in my absence. By communicating openly with my children about my travel plans and reassuring them of my love and commitment, I was able to ease their anxieties and ensure a smooth transition during my time away.

While solo driving through 32 countries as a woman and mother of two children may seem like a daunting and overwhelming task, it was also an incredible opportunity for my personal growth and self-discovery. This journey pushed me out of my comfort zone, challenge my limits, and exposed me to new experiences and perspectives that has enriched my life in ways I had never imagined.

By embracing the unknown, stepping outside of my comfort zone, and trusting in my own abilities, I have truly conquered the world, one country at a time and created lasting memories that will stay with me forever. In conclusion, my solo driving through 32 countries as a woman and mother of two children was a daring and inspiring endeavour that certainly required courage, determination, and careful planning. While it was not easy, the rewards and experiences gained from that journey are invaluable and life-changing. By taking the leap of faith, trusting in myself, and following my dreams, I had embarked on a solo driving adventure that has shaped me into a stronger, more confident, and empowered individual.

So ladies, buckle up, hit the road, and let the journey begin within yourself..............

26/12/2024

Deeply saddened by the passing of Hon. Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. His contributions to the nation and his dedication to public service will always be remembered. An architect of India’s economic reforms who steered India’s economy further towards liberalisation and globalisation. During his time as finance minister in the government of Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao his implemention of reforms that helped stabilise India's economy. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on India’s economic policy over the years. There would never be anyone like Dr Manmohan Singh ji. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji.

26/12/2024

OUR CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER!
The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through our home, mingling with the rich scent of pine nuts I roasted. They were hard to find in India but I managed. Twinkling lights adorned the branches, casting a warm glow over the living room. It was Christmas, and as I stood in the kitchen, stirring a pot of hot cocoa, nostalgia washed over me like the gentle snowfall.

I glanced at Priyam, now 19, flipping through an old photo album on the couch. His laughter rang out as he pointed at a picture of himself as a toddler, eyes wide with wonder as he unwrapped his first gift. Aarush, my baby, now 17, joined him, a smile spreading across his face as he recalled those carefree days. “Look at us! We were so excited about everything,” he chuckled, his voice tinged with a hint of longing.

As they reminisced, I couldn’t help but feel a bittersweet ache in my heart. Christmas had always been a magical time for our family, filled with joy and anticipation. The nights spent decorating the tree, the thrill of hanging stockings, and the joyous chaos of unwrapping presents were memories I cherished deeply. But now, as they grew older, the innocence and excitement of their childhood felt like a distant echo.

“Remember when we used to sneak downstairs to see if Santa had come?” Priyam asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Aarush nodded vigorously, a grin on his face. “We thought we were so clever! Mummy caught us every time.”

I smiled, recalling how I used to feign sleep, listening to their whispers as they tiptoed down the hallway, giggling and shushing each other in the dark. Those nights were filled with magic, their belief in Santa bringing light to our home.

Yet, as the years passed, the traditions began to change. The late-night wrapping sessions turned into discussions about college and future plans. The excitement of Christmas morning transformed into a more subdued celebration, marked by the understanding that our little ones were growing up too fast. Next year, Aarush would turn 18, and the house would feel different—less like a playground and more like an echo of what once was.

In the evening, we gathered around the tree, each of us holding a gift. “Let’s share our favorite Christmas memories,” I suggested, hoping to reignite some of that lost magic. Priyam went first, his voice soft as he shared his favorite moment of catching snowflakes on his tongue during a Christmas Eve snowfall. Aarush followed, recalling the year he built a snowman that towered taller than him, a feat he was immensely proud of.

As they spoke, I felt a warmth spreading through me, a reminder that while their childhood may be behind us, the love we shared was ever-present. We exchanged gifts, laughter filling the room as we unwrapped thoughtful tokens of our bond. Priyam gifted me a framed photo of our family from years past, a beautiful reminder of the joy we’d shared. Aarush handed me a handmade ornament, a small snowman with a crooked smile, a symbol of his playful spirit.

In that moment, I realized that while the excitement of Christmas may have changed, the essence of our celebration remained the same—love, laughter, and togetherness. As we sat on the living room floor, surrounded by memories and the glow of our decorated tree, I felt a sense of peace. Yes, they were growing up, and yes, next year would be different, but our family would always create new traditions, new memories.

Tonight, as we cuddled on the couch watching our favorite Christmas movies, I felt grateful. Grateful for the laughter, the nostalgia, and the love that filled our home. We might not have the same childhood excitement, but we had something deeper—a bond that would last a lifetime.

As I closed my eyes, listening to the sound of their laughter, I knew that no matter how fast they grew, the spirit of Christmas would always find a way to keep us together. And in that moment, I felt the true magic of the season.

23/12/2024

OUR CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATION.
As the winter sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm golden glow through the windows, the air inside the house buzzed with the familiar excitement of the holiday season. Laughter echoed through the rooms as my two boys, now nearly grown, rummaged through boxes in search of ornaments, each item pulling them deeper into the memories of Christmases past.

“Look, Mom! Remember this one?” my younger son, Aarush exclaimed, holding up a glittering star. It was a relic from when he was just five years old, his tiny hands struggling to hang it on the tree while his older brother, Priyam, cheered him on. Now, at seventeen, Aarush’s face lit up with the same joy, though he is taller and more mature, the echoes of childhood still visible in his bright eyes.

“Of course I do! You were so proud of that star,” I replied, a bittersweet smile tugging at my lips. It struck me then—this would be the last Christmas tree he would decorate as a child. Next year, he would be an adult, embarking on a new chapter of his life. The weight of that realization settled on my heart like a gentle snow.

Priyam joined us, his arms laden with strands of twinkling lights, his laughter infectious as he teased his brother about the time he accidentally tangled them into a mess that took hours to unravel. “You’ve come a long way since then, buddy!” he said, ruffling Aarush’s hair affectionately.

As they worked together, I watched them transform our living room into a winter wonderland. Each ornament they hung seemed to carry a story, a fragment of their childhood spilling into the present. I felt an overwhelming rush of nostalgia—a mix of happiness and sorrow swirling within me. How had the years flown by so quickly? These boys, once so small and dependent, were now smart, handsome young men, full of dreams and ambitions.

The tree stood tall, its branches heavy with memories. My heart swelled with pride as I reflected on the compassionate souls they had become. They were not just my children; they were kind-hearted individuals ready to take on the world. But the thought of them leaving the nest, of Santa becoming a fond memory, tugged at me painfully.

“Let’s take a picture!” I suggested, hoping to capture this fleeting moment. They positioned themselves beside the tree, their faces glowing under the shimmering lights. “Say ‘Christmas!’” I called out, and their voices rang out in unison, echoing the spirit of the season.

As I snapped the photo, a memory washed over me—of late-night giggles, cookies baked with flour-covered hands, and the magic of believing in the impossible. I could almost hear the whispers of their younger selves, the joy and wonder that had filled our home.

Later, as the evening faded into night, we settled on the couch, hot cocoa in hand, the twinkling lights of the tree illuminating our faces. We shared stories of past Christmases, laughter mingling with the warmth of the moment. I cherished every second, knowing that these days were numbered.

“Next year will be different, won’t it?” Aarush mused, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

“Yeah, it will,” I replied softly, feeling the weight of impending change. “But it will also be new and exciting. You’re both ready for it.”

Priyam nodded, glancing at his brother. “We’ll always have these memories, though. No matter what happens.”

As I watched them, I realized that though change was inevitable, the love we shared would remain constant. This last Christmas tree, a symbol of both an ending and a beginning, was a testament to the beautiful journey we had traveled together.

In that moment, I understood that while time might take my boys into adulthood, it could never take away the bond we had forged. And as they grew, so too would my love for them, expanding like the branches of our beloved Christmas tree—ever strong, ever bright.

22/12/2024

WITH THE LADY GODIVA-Those who are unaware of Lady Godiva would find interesting to read the tale here- # # # The Tale of Lady Godiva: A Heartfelt Legend

In the heart of medieval England, during the tumultuous times of the 11th century, there lived a noblewoman named Lady Godiva of Coventry. She was renowned not only for her beauty but also for her deep compassion and unwavering sense of justice. Lady Godiva was married to Leofric, the Earl of Mercia, a wealthy and powerful man who imposed heavy taxes on the townspeople of Coventry, causing great suffering among the poor.

As the burdens of taxation grew heavier, the cries of the townsfolk reached Godiva’s ears. Moved by their plight, she approached her husband, pleading for relief. Leofric, however, was resolute; he dismissed her concerns, boasting that no one would dare defy his authority. Frustrated but determined to help her people, Godiva made a bold request: she would ride naked through the streets of Coventry if he would lower the taxes.

Leofric, thinking this a ludicrous notion, agreed, fully believing that she would never go through with it. But Godiva, driven by her love for her people, took him at his word. On a fateful day, she prepared herself for the ride, covering her hair with a long veil and instructing the townspeople to stay indoors, out of respect for her modesty.

As she rode through the cobbled streets, the townsfolk, honoring her request, remained hidden behind closed doors, except for one man, a tailor named Tom. Struck by her bravery and beauty, he could not resist peeking. As soon as he laid eyes on her, he was struck blind, and thus the term “Peeping Tom” was born.

When Godiva completed her ride, she returned to Leofric, who, astonished by her courage, kept his promise and lowered the taxes. The townspeople rejoiced, grateful for her selfless act of defiance against oppression. Lady Godiva became a symbol of compassion, bravery, and the fight for justice.

# # # Historical Significance

The story of Lady Godiva carries significant historical weight, embodying themes of social justice and the power of women in a patriarchal society. It reflects the struggles of the common people against the feudal system, highlighting the disparities between the wealthy elite and the impoverished populace. Godiva's act of riding through Coventry not only challenged the authority of her husband but also served as a poignant reminder of the potential for individuals to effect change through personal sacrifice.

Additionally, the tale has inspired countless works of art, literature, and folklore over the centuries, symbolizing the enduring fight against tyranny and injustice. Statues and monuments in Coventry commemorate her legacy, while the annual Godiva Festival celebrates her spirit of community and resistance.

In modern times, Lady Godiva is often invoked in discussions about social reform and women's rights, standing as an emblem of courage and the belief that one person's actions can spark significant change in society. Her story continues to resonate, reminding us that true nobility lies not in wealth or power but in selfless acts of love and courage for the greater good.

12/12/2024

HOME COMING AFTER SETTING A WORLD RECORD.................
As I was leaving Baroda, the last stop on my incredible journey, a whirlwind of emotions enveloped me. It felt surreal to finally be home after a journey that had spanned over 35,000 kilometres, taking me through 32 countries and 12 states of India, was finally coming to a close.

Each mile travelled was a testament to resilience, discovery and the unyielding spirit of adventure. Each mile travelled etched in my memory, a tapestry of experiences that shaped me into who I was. Each step of the way had been a profound lesson, a story waiting to be shared. But now, as I prepared to return home, the weight of my journey pressed heavily on my heart.

Nothing could have prepared me for the overwhelming welcome that awaited me in my hometown. As I approached Navsari, a flood of memories and emotions surged within me.

The unexpected phone call from the Navsari district magistrate (collector) filled me with a mixture of surprise and pride. His voice was warm and sincere, carrying a message that resonated deeply within me, his words carried a weight I hadn’t anticipated. “Congratulations Madam, My name is Mr Arora. I am the collector of Navsari. You have made us all very proud and we are early waiting to welcome you home. I struggled to find words. I said thank you so much sir. Thank you for calling sir.

He asked what would be the approximate time of your arrival? I said approximately 4pm sir. He said, we will be waiting by the highway on service road as you leave the highway, just look out for the Government vehicle. We will be es**rting you into the town. I naively said sir, I frequently visit Navsari so I know my way around. I had thought the es**rt was unnecessary; after all, I knew Navsari like the back of my hand.

“Madam, we are aware that you know your way around Navsari, but today you are arriving as our pride,” he said. Those words echoed in my mind, igniting a flame of nostalgia and belonging, his voice filled with warmth. The collector wanted to es**rt me into Navsari, not because I was lost, but because I was a daughter of this land, a reflection of its spirit and resilience.

Navsari my hometown, where I was born, the place where my roots ran deep. Yet, I had often felt like just another face in the crowd. Now, the notion of being celebrated as an "achieve daughter" filled me with a sense of belonging I had long sought. I had left Navsari with dreams and ambitions, and I was returning not just as an individual, but as a reflection of the dreams of those who had cheered for me from afar.

I had always felt Navsari as just a collection of roads I knew well, but today it was so much more—a place where hearts swelled with pride for one of their own. This was more than a gesture of guidance—it was an honour, a tribute to the journey I had undertaken, and a symbol of the community’s pride in one of their own.

As I turned off the highway, I saw a convoy of government vehicle waiting for me, its insignia shining in late afternoon sun. reading the Government of Gujarat filled my heart with pride that it is, where my Gujarat my soul belongs to. The district collector and district administration stood proudly, their faces lit with excitement and admiration. I felt a rush of emotion as I stepped out of my vehicle. It was more than just a welcome; it was a celebration of every challenge I had overcome, every moment of doubt I had faced. The district magistrate greeted me with a warm smile and a flower bouquet, his eyes reflecting the pride he spoke of. “Welcome home,” he said, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. “You have made us all proud.”

After a brief greeting, I was es**rted into my hometown, where the streets were lined with people waving banners and cheering, adorned with vibrant banners and flowers. I realized this wasn’t just a celebration of my journey; it was a celebration of community, of shared dreams and aspirations. Every cheer felt like a reminder that I was never alone in this journey. I carried the hopes of my family, friends, and fellow citizens with me across borders and cultures.

The streets, familiar yet transformed with vibrant decorations, welcomed me back. Banners fluttered in the breeze, and flowers adorned the roadsides, each petal a testament to the love and pride of my people. These were the streets where I had grown up, where I had dreamed of seeing the world, and now they stood ready to celebrate the culmination of that dream.

As I drove through the familiar roads, memories flooded back—bustling markets, the scent of jasmine in the air, laughter with friends under the shade of banyan trees. Each landmark held a story, a piece of my heart, the temples where I had whispered my wishes every time I headed toward the highway when leaving for London—filled me with nostalgia and joy. The closer I got to Navsari, the more surreal it felt.

Arriving at the town center, I was met with a sea of familiar faces. I was greeted by the Mayor, Mrs. Alkaben Desai, whose eyes sparkled with tears of happiness. She wrapped me in a warm embrace, her voice thick with emotion. “Welcome home, dear daughter. You have made us all very proud,” she said, and in that moment, a wave of gratitude washed over me. Her embrace was warm and heartfelt, her eyes brimming with tears of joy. Her voice trembling with emotion. It was a moment that encapsulated the essence of community—love, support, and shared joy. It wasn’t just about my journey; it was about everyone who had supported me along the way, the teachers who encouraged my dreams, the friends who stood by me, and the family whose love had been my anchor. Their smiles illuminated my heart, and I was overwhelmed with gratitude. I thought of the moments I had felt isolated in foreign lands and how these connections had kept my spirit alive.

The crowd that had gathered around was a tapestry of familiar faces, faces beaming with pride and joy: childhood friends, teachers who had nurtured my curiosity, neighbours who had watched me grow. They were all there, not just to celebrate my achievements, but to celebrate Navsari’s spirit—a spirit of resilience, unity, and ambition.

I stepped onto the makeshift stage, a khadi garland draped around my neck, and my heart swelled as I offered a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the ironman who had fought for our freedom and united India, whose legacy of strength and unity resonated deeply with everyone present. It felt like a sacred connection to the past, a reminder of the sacrifices made for the future we now enjoy.

The welcome program unfolded, I felt the weight of each moment I had lived through on my journey—a journey filled with challenges, lessons, and triumphs. I realized then that every step taken had led me back to this very moment, this celebration of home. The song a reflection of our rich heritage. The rhythms and melodies spoke to the heart of Navsari, a reminder of the roots that had given me the strength to explore the world. As I watched, I felt the culmination of my journey—a journey not just of distance but of growth, understanding, and connection.

When it was time to speak, I stood there, surrounded by love and warmth, my voice trembled with emotions, I spoke from my heart. “this journey was not just mine; it was ours’, I began. “Every step I took was for all of you who believed in me. Thank you for being my anchor, my inspiration.” I shared stories from my travels, the places I had visited, the people I met—the vibrant cultures I had encountered, the challenges I had overcome, and the unexpected kindness of strangers, and most importantly the lesson I had learned. I spoke of the resilience that had been instilled in me by my community, the lessons learned that no classroom could teach. I encouraged everyone to dream without boundaries, to embrace the world with open hearts, and to remember that no matter how far we wander, home is where our roots lie.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I finished speaking, but they were tears of gratitude and joy. I saw my mama “maternal uncle” in the crowd, his face beaming with pride. He had always been my greatest supporter, encouraging me to chase my dreams, even when the world felt daunting. I remembered my grandfather, I thought of all the sacrifices he had made for me to have the freedom to explore. I felt the embrace of my hometown and the community, the pride of being their daughter, and the realization that my journey was not just mine, but a shared triumph, the love of my people, and the pride of being their daughter. It was a journey that belonged to everyone who had believed in me, supported me, and cheered me on from afar. In that moment, I understood that my journey was not just mine alone; it was a journey for everyone who believe in me.

As the sun set, casting a golden glow over Navsari, I looked around at the faces of my community, and I knew I was truly home. This journey, filled with adventure, discovery, and growth, had come full circle. It was a reminder that our greatest achievements are not solitary; they are shared with those who walk alongside us, those who lift us up, and those who celebrate our homecoming. I realized that my journey had come full circle. I had set out to explore the world, but what I found was a deeper understanding of home. It was not merely a place on a map; it was a tapestry of love, support, and shared dreams.

As I looked around at the faces of those who had welcomed me back, I felt a profound sense of belonging. My journey had not just changed me; it had woven me into the very fabric of my community. I was home, not just to rest, but to inspire others to embark on their own journeys, to chase their dreams as I had.
Together, we celebrated not just my return, but the enduring spirit of Navsari—a spirit that would continue to inspire and nurture dreams for generations to come.

In that moment, surrounded by love and pride, I knew that every mile travelled had led me exactly where I was meant to be—back home in Navsari, where my heart would always reside. The journey had been vast and transformative, but the greatest discovery was realizing that home was not just a destination but a feeling, a connection that transcended all boundaries.

11/12/2024

DEPARTURE AND REUNION- As I stood at the threshold of a new adventure, my heart swelled with a mix of excitement and melancholy. I was preparing to embark on a world-record drive through 32 countries, a journey that would take me through the breathtaking landscapes of the Arctic Circle and far beyond. My two children gathered around me, their small faces a blend of pride and worry.

“Mum, you’ll be careful, right?” my younger son asked, his voice barely above a whisper. I could see the glimmer of unshed tears in his eyes, mirroring the silent emotions swirling within me. We all tried to put on brave faces, but the weight of the moment was palpable. We were pretending to be strong, but deep down, we all knew how hard it was to say goodbye—even if it was just for a little while.

As I climbed into my car, I caught one last glimpse of their faces, a bittersweet reminder of what I was leaving behind. It was a huge undertaking, and no one truly believed I could do it. Some Friends had questioned my sanity, and even family had expressed doubts. But within me burned an unwavering faith. I wasn’t just chasing a record; I was chasing a dream—a dream that had sparked within me many years ago.

The road stretched ahead like an uncharted canvas, and I felt an electrifying thrill as I set off. The world outside my window transformed from cityscapes to rolling hills, from bustling markets to the serene, untouched beauty of the Arctic. Each mile brought new challenges, but I faced them with grace and determination each passing day. I meticulously planned every stop, every turn, and executed my vision with a fierce passion that fueled my journey.

There were moments of loneliness, yes, and times when the weight of the world felt heavy on my shoulders. But I also encountered kindness from strangers, breathtaking views that took my breath away, and a sense of freedom unlike anything I had ever experienced. I felt alive, and with each passing day, I grew stronger—not just as a driver, but as a woman, a mother, and a dreamer.

My children were never far from my thoughts. I would pause at scenic overlooks and send them pictures of the landscapes that took my breath away, hoping to inspire them as they inspired me. I wanted them to know that following your passion was worth every sacrifice, that dreams could become reality through hard work and determination.

As I crossed into the final country on my list, a wave of emotion washed over me. I had succeeded—not just in creating a record, but in living the life I had always wanted. I had proven to myself and to those who doubted me that there is no force equal to a determined woman.

When I finally reached New Delhi, my children were waiting and rushed to me, their faces beaming with pride. They enveloped me in a group hug, and in that moment, all the miles, all the challenges, and all the tears faded away. We were together again, and I realized that while I chased my dreams, I had also taught them the importance of believing in themselves.

As I looked into their eyes, I knew that this journey was more than a record; it was a legacy of courage, passion, and the unwavering belief that we can create the lives we want—if only we dare to dream.