Nothing Matters!

Published in the Sunday Sakal on 02 February, 2025

Whenever we travel, I have developed a habit of ensuring two things first: a table in the van and a work desk in the hotel room. Most of our trips last around fifteen days. Once we go, we make sure to explore the entire region thoroughly. Just think about it—traveling from Warsaw in Poland to Dubrovnik in Croatia, from New Zealand’s North Island to Invercargill in the South Island, from Porto and Douro Valley in Portugal and Spain to Algarve, Seville, Málaga, Barcelona, and Montserrat in the south, from Syros, Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete in Greece to Thessaloniki and Athens, from Hanoi and Halong Bay in northern Vietnam to Saigon and Ho Chi Minh City in the south... The travel never stops, so it never really feels like a 100% holiday. Office work has to be done—you just can't escape it. 

That’s why every time, we make sure that the van has a small built-in folding table that can be used as a work desk. I also find it essential that the van’s seats are reversible. When Sudhir and I are getting along well, we turn the seats to face each other and transform the van into a mobile office. On days when we need a little space, we keep the seats straight, preserving our privacy. 

The second important thing is that wherever we stay, the room must have an executive desk—bonus points if it’s in front of a window! When I enter a hotel room, the first thing I do is set up my work desk neatly. Chargers, iPad, phone, the book I’m currently reading, full-scape sheets for writing articles, a pen stand—once everything is in its place, there's an indescribable sense of satisfaction. Since I’m handling both in-depth destination exploration and office work—essentially juggling a double duty—even Veena World’s accounts department has no objections to our little "demands." 

Last year, Sudhir and I visited San Francisco for ten days to meet our younger son, Raj. Sunila was with us too. Two days before our trip, she said, “Madam, this time, forget about the van. Raj will be driving us around in his car. There won’t be a desk, so be ready.” I had already planned to write my weekly articles early in the mornings at the hotel. Otherwise, Raj would have teased, “If you were only going to work here, why did you even come?” 

For those ten days, we traveled in Raj’s car—a basic, manually operated Volkswagen. On our last day, while waiting for our Uber to the airport in the hotel lobby, Sunila remarked, “Look at us! We’re usually so particular about the van and the car, but this time, we didn’t even think about whether the car was small or lacked certain features.” 

I responded, “Sunila, this time, our purpose was different. And when that happens, actually—nothing matters!” 

Raj had bought that car with his hard-earned money as soon as he got his job. We had wanted to gift him a car for his birthday—as a celebration of his master’s graduation and new job—but he had firmly refused. When someone denies us something we want to give, it stings more than when someone fails to give us what we desire. Still, we were proud that, like other Indian kids abroad, he was striving to stand on his own feet. His self-bought car was a symbol of that. 

Our niece, Mugdha Thakur, who lives nearby, asked me, “Veena Maushi, don’t you send Raj any money? He’s on such a tight budget!” I laughed and said, “He’s a minimalist. His logic is simple—‘How does it matter? I need a car to commute, not to show off.’” We never insisted. We just thought, "Let him be!" 

This phrase—‘How does it matter?’ or ‘Nothing matters!’—has started to hold deep significance for me. Looking back at my life, I see how true it has been. 

At twenty, I joined my father in the travel business. At twenty-two, I led my first tour to Himachal Pradesh. For the next ten years, I continuously conducted Himachal tours as a tour manager. We were just starting out, struggling financially, new to Mumbai, and without a house of our own. Saving money was crucial. So, during tours, we would fill all 35 seats in the bus with tourists. My mother and I would sit in the driver’s cabin. We did this for ten continuous years. 

Looking back, it gives me chills. The driver’s cabin had no proper seat or chair—just a bench. We would travel overnight like this, taking turns to lean back slightly for short rests. It was extremely tough. But if the bus wasn’t fully booked, we got lucky—one of us would get a front or back seat. 

No matter how difficult it seems now, back then, it never felt like a struggle. Even after an exhausting overnight journey, we would wake up with a smile and greet our tourists the next morning. Our goal was crystal clear—to buy a house in Mumbai and make the small travel company my father had started into a recognized name. Compared to that dream, the endless hours spent in the driver’s cabin seemed trivial. It was just another step towards our destination. When your focus is fixed on your goal, nothing else matters. 

This reminds me of India’s freedom struggle. We owe deep gratitude to our ancestors and, most importantly, to our freedom fighters, whose sacrifices allow us to live in an independent India today. Here I am, reminiscing about the hardship of sitting in a driver’s cabin for my own business, feeling like it was a big challenge. But imagine the mindset of those freedom fighters! 

They knew that the independence they were fighting for, risking their lives, might never be something they would live to enjoy. And yet, they fought on. Their only goal was India’s freedom. Nothing else mattered. Many individuals, obsessed with a singular goal, have relentlessly pursued it with an “Anything else doesn’t matter” mindset. Such personalities should always reside in a corner of our minds. This ensures that we neither forget history nor lose our resolve when life’s battles seem insurmountable. At such times, the memory of Swatantryaveer Savarkar strikes intensely. 

Every visit to that tiny cell in the Andaman prison brings forth the torment inflicted by the British, making tears well up in our eyes. He endured a life sentence in a place where we wouldn’t have survived even a day. Yet, despite the brutal hardships, he kept alive the freedom fighter, the social reformer, the Hindutva ideologue, the writer, and the poet within him. Can the journey of a singular goal really make all other sufferings seem insignificant? 

Today, our lives have become relatively comfortable. Luxuries and technology lie at our feet, and yet, we remain unsatisfied. We waste our energy finding trivial faults because our goals aren’t strong enough. Every goal should be like a milestone—once one is achieved, the next should be even more challenging. After that, an even tougher third goal should follow. Once this journey begins, minor distractions won’t bother us. We will attain peace, but more importantly, we will feel empowered. And then, truly, we will say—Nothing matters! 

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Dekho Apna Desh…
Dil se! Pyaar se! Samman se!

Rajasthan is the largest state in India. Before the British ruled India, Rajasthan was known as 'Rajputana.' It is a vibrant mix of colorful cities, delicious cuisine, royal palaces, and historic forts. One of the most interesting aspects of this state is that each city follows a specific color code, with houses painted in a distinct shade. Udaipur is known as the 'White City,' Jaisalmer as the 'Golden City,' Jodhpur as the 'Blue City,' and Jaipur as the 'Pink City.' Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is one of India's top tourist destinations. It is home to famous landmarks like the City Palace, Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Birla Temple, and bustling markets. 

Bikaner, located in the Thar Desert, is renowned for its delectable food and ancient forts, with Junagarh Fort being the most popular attraction. In Jaisalmer, visitors can explore Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh, and the Thar Heritage Museum. 

One of India’s largest tiger reserves is in Sawai Madhopur, a small town in Rajasthan. The major attraction here is Ranthambore National Park. Pushkar is home to the world’s only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, while Mount Abu is the state's most famous hill station. 

The traditional attire of Rajasthan is colorful, bright, and distinctive. Men wear dhotis, angarkhas, pajamas, kamarbandhs (waistbands), and vibrant turbans. Interestingly, Rajasthan has over 1,000 styles of tying turbans, with variations every few kilometers. The women of Rajasthan are known for their beauty and wear traditional ghagra-cholis. 

Most Rajasthani delicacies are prepared using pure ghee. The famous dish of the state is dal-baati-churma. Other renowned treats include Jodhpur’s mawa kachori, Jaipur’s ghewar, Alwar’s kalakand, Pushkar’s malpua, Bikaner’s rasgulla, namkeen bhujia, jalebi, and rabri. 

Embark on a memorable journey through this colorful Rajasthan with Veena World! 

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Oh! I Didn't Know That… 

Europe, one of the seven continents, is a breath-taking landmass in the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres. Among its many remarkable countries, Romania stands out. In recent years, Romania has gained popularity as a travel destination. Nestled between the Carpathian Mountains, the Danube River, and the Black Sea, Romania boasts charming villages, majestic mountains, and stunning beaches. 

Bucharest, the largest city and capital of Romania, is located in the southern part of the country, along the riverbanks. It serves as Romania’s economic, cultural, educational, and political hub. Legend has it that a shepherd named Bucur founded Bucharest. 

In March 1847, a fire broke out near the old courthouse in Bucharest. At the time, many buildings were made of wood, and strong winds quickly spread the flames, resulting in a massive fire that destroyed nearly one-third of the city. A large redevelopment program was launched, and under the reign of King Carol I, Bucharest flourished once again. Inspired by Parisian architecture, many buildings in the city reflect its influence. Because of this, Bucharest is often called 'Little Paris' or the 'Paris of the East.' 

The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian rural life. In 1948, the Royal Palace of Bucharest was transformed into a museum preserving Romanian fine arts from the 10th to the 18th century, alongside Western and European art forms. 

Calea Victoriei is Bucharest’s oldest and most charming main street. At certain times, it becomes a pedestrian-only zone, where locals and tourists alike enjoy street food and various performances. Previously, it was known as the 'Most Fashionable Street.' 

In 2012, the Sky Tower was built in northern Bucharest, in Calea Floreasca. It houses the grand Parliament Palace and is currently the tallest building in both Bucharest and Romania. The 36th floor features a restaurant offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. 

Football is the most popular sport in Bucharest, home to two of Romania’s most successful clubs. 

If you wish to visit this fascinating city and explore Romania, join Veena World’s Eastern Europe Tour. Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado!

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Veena World Travel Mission
100 Country Club 

Memories That Stay! 

I firmly believe that what we see in photos is quite different from experiencing it in real life. I have been traveling since 2019, and this year, I am shifting to Coimbatore. However, as always, I will continue booking all my tours through Veena World’s Andheri office or now from their Coimbatore office. For me, Veena World is synonymous with trust. 

Before embarking on any tour, I take care of all the essential details—such as checking the weather and temperature of my destination. I always plan these things in advance, ensuring my trips are smooth and enjoyable. 

I am Narayanan Subramaniam, and I have traveled to 11 countries so far, along with 23 Indian states, many of which I have visited multiple times. I have even created a travel portfolio of countries I plan to visit in the next 10 years. Currently, at the top of my list are Kenya and Eastern Europe! 

I love traveling within India the most. No other country can match the diversity we have here—be it cuisine, mighty mountain ranges, deserts, rivers, temples, architecture, or ancient caves. That’s why I don’t have just one favorite destination in India; I love the entire country! 

I enjoy long-distance trips. This year, I am eagerly looking forward to booking a 30-day road trip from Gujarat to Guwahati. Recently, I completed a 40-day road trip from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. During the first leg of my journey, Tour Manager Shardul Pendharkar accompanied me, and in the second leg, it was Tour Manager Hudson Francis. 

Before traveling internationally, I love selecting all the locations I plan to visit. For me, travel is a form of education. When we explore different places, we don’t just visit them—we observe them deeply. I always love sharing my travel experiences. 

Shopping has never been a dilemma for me. I always consider my family’s preferences before making any purchases. I often buy caps or T-shirts from military shops. 

One thing I can confidently say is that traveling opens the doors of the mind. It broadens our perspective, makes us more open-hearted, and even improves our health. 

As soon as one journey ends, I immediately start preparing for the next—packing my bags and setting off for another adventure. To explore a new destination, collect new experiences, and learn even more. In short, every trip is a chance to start life afresh once again! 

– Narayanan Subramaniam, Andheri

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Private Holiday Ideas
With Veena World Customized Holidays 

Dubai is a modern city that blends rich culture with natural beauty. A trip to Dubai introduces you to the Burj Khalifa, The World Islands, various theme parks, golden deserts, and serene beaches. 

If you’re planning a Dubai tour, don’t miss out on these exclusive experiences: 

• Desert Safari in Vintage Land Rovers organized by the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where you can also spot native wildlife like the Arabian Oryx. 

• Luxury Yacht & Cruise Tour around Palm Jumeirah, enjoying your favorite cuisine and onboard entertainment. 

• Helicopter Tour over iconic landmarks like Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and The World Islands, or go skydiving for a breathtaking aerial view of Palm Jumeirah. 

• Drive a Luxury Car like a Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Rolls-Royce through Dubai’s stunning cityscape and highways. 

• Experience a Super Jet Car adventure on water for an adrenaline rush like no other. 

Stylish Stay Options in Dubai: 

• Luxury Tented Villas at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, each with a private infinity pool. 

• Atlantis The Palm, a marine-themed luxury resort in Palm Jumeirah, featuring underwater suites with views of the Ambassador Lagoon. A stay here includes free entry to Aquaventure Water Park and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. 

• Atlantis The Royal, where you can enjoy sky-high infinity pools, Michelin-star dining, and exclusive access to a private beach. 

Where to Eat in Dubai: 

• At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa, the perfect spot for a fine dining experience in the world's tallest building. 

• Ossiano at Atlantis, offering a private dining experience surrounded by a breathtaking aquarium. 

• Burj Al Arab’s Gold-Plated Interiors Tour, where you can indulge in their signature Gold Cappuccino, made with edible gold. 

Make your Dubai trip unforgettable—get in touch with our Customized Holidays Team today! 

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Hello Girls! 

A little break from the daily hustle is a must! Because "Main khud ki favorite hoon" and "I am the Queen" aren’t just words—they're a reminder that after a year of juggling home and career, you deserve a routine break to do something special, something different. 

And that’s why celebrating this day with full excitement is your right! You’ve started thinking beyond boundaries—crossing not just the limits of your routine but also traveling beyond borders, making the world your own. Women’s Day is the perfect occasion to give wings to these dreams! 

Today, you are more confident and fearless than ever. You want to explore the world, fly high in the sky, dive deep into the ocean, try new adventures, and live life to the fullest. And on this journey, your perfect travel companion is Veena World’s Women’s Special Tour! 

So, where are you celebrating Women’s Day this year?