5 months ago the universe helped me fulfill my mom's ardent wish of making a family trip to her hometown, Odisha. Visiting that state was like painting a beautiful canvas of nature and wildlife, kind-heart people and beautiful souls, and good food and simple living in my travel memories. I narrated about my heart-warming acquaintance with locals and artists in my blog. . . . On 4th May 2019, a heart-wrenching news was circulated in my WhatsApp group. My dearest friend sent a screenshot of Cyclone Fani news with a caption "Is anybody from your family affected?" . . I was startled. In a flash, I rewind my Odisha trip. The beautiful canvas, now compared with the images in news headlines were more than just disturbing. . . I replied to the message saying, "I don't have my family there but my heart goes out to all those affected in Odisha." . . Almost a week later I receive a message from the very artist whose acquaintance I have mentioned in my blog. The message reads, "Mam humara ghar tootgaya hai - (Ma'am, we our house is devastated). Please help me." . . Tears built up in my eyes as I saw the pictures of the aftereffects of the cyclone. In a split second it rolled down my cheeks and I didn't know what to reply. I felt like my family was stranded there. I urge everyone to contribute to their best and help rebuild Odisha. . . The lives have been saved but the livelihood has been lost. Stand for Odisha. . . Donate in CM Relief Fund, @khalsaaid_india or other NGOs working relentlessly to rebuild the state. Spread awareness, educate people, or volunteer. . . Support in anyway you can. . . #cyclonefani #odishacyclone #standforodisha #odishacyclone #fanicyclone #fani #supportodisha (at Odisha) https://www.instagram.com/p/BxaSXNOpWkk/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=2guitgoab7oa
