#motherson

Travelling to Puri with my mother, Kakali Banerjee, was not just a trip; it was a journey of devotion, togetherness, and quiet joy. From the very beginning to the return home, every moment felt meaningful, gentle, and deeply memorable.

We travelled by the Vande Bharat Express, a train that itself felt like a symbol of modern India. The train was clean, comfortable, and well-organised. The smooth ride, large windows, and courteous service made the journey pleasant and relaxing. As the train moved forward, we watched changing landscapes—green fields, rivers, small stations, and distant villages—while sharing light conversations and comfortable silence. Sitting beside my mother during the journey brought a sense of security and warmth that made the travel special.

Reaching Puri, the atmosphere felt different—calmer, spiritual, and welcoming. The first place that truly touched my heart was the Puri Sea Beach. The vast stretch of golden sand, the rhythmic sound of the waves, and the cool sea breeze created a feeling of peace. Walking slowly along the shore with my mother, watching the endless blue sea, felt refreshing and healing. The sea seemed timeless, washing away worries with every wave.

The spiritual heart of Puri is the Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites of Hinduism. The temple holds immense historical and religious importance. Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, is worshipped here. The temple is famous for its unique rituals and the annual Rath Yatra, where the deities are taken out in grand chariots, symbolising accessibility of the divine to all.

Standing near the temple, I felt a deep sense of devotion and humility. The chants, the sound of bells, and the devotion of countless pilgrims created an atmosphere filled with faith. Visiting the temple with my mother made the experience even more powerful—it felt like a blessing shared across generations.

Apart from the temple and the beach, Puri offers several other attractions. Places like Gundicha Temple, Swargadwar, and the nearby Konark Sun Temple region reflect the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Odisha. The local markets, filled with handicrafts, seashell items, and traditional sweets like khaja, added colour and charm to our visit.

After spending peaceful and fulfilling days in Puri, it was time to return. Our return journey by Vande Bharat Express felt calm and reflective. The comfort of the train allowed us to rest, think, and quietly relive the moments we had experienced. As the train moved away from Puri, I felt gratitude—for the journey, for the blessings, and most importantly, for the opportunity to travel with my mother.