Ritika Does India Travelogue

“Many of you know Ritika as the designer of SILK ‘N MORE shawls and scarves. Ritika also heads up our shipping and receiving department.

Once a year, Ritika travels to India to see her family, visit the (family) factories, and collaborate on new designs.

Barely off the plane after her month-long sojourn, I asked Ritika if she would blog about her trip.” ~Faye

Such a looong trip: 24+ hours and sooooo many emotions. I get to see my parents, my sister, and extended family...priceless!

The moment I land, time slows down, and every minute seems precious.

Food is of paramount importance, and everyone asks what I would like to eat. My response is always, “As long as I’m not cooking – anything!”

Of course, I have my favorites: Mom’s cakes, omelettes for breakfast, and the abundance of street food that is special to my hometown, Amritsar.

There is no rush to get anywhere. There’s a term we use “Indian standard time,” could be 10:30 or so. Remember, I’m on vacation.

Every day starts with me waking up early (creature of habit). I enjoy tea with mom; breakfast comes later. This is the best time to talk – about nothing and everything. Chat about what my kids are doing. What’s new in my life. What is going on in the life of various cousins, etc.

Mid-morning is when I visit our showroom or factory for the scarves. Collaborating on new patterns and styles is a highlight.

Lunch is promptly at 1:30 pm. (Indian standard time doesn’t apply here.)

Afternoons include a short siesta for most people but not for this American. So I get caught up on emails. It’s after midnight in the US – the time stamp on my replies shocks everyone.

Evening is about tea time with at least 1 of my favorite snacks from town. Everything gets a good reheat – I don’t want to ruin my trip with an upset stomach. Then it’s time to stroll the backyard. The memories come flooding back: the sound of the local birds, the fragrance from the Eucalyptus trees towering over our home... everything has a distinct childhood memory.

Someone or other drops in to say “hello.” Of course – more snacks and tea or coffee or a drink (or 2)!!

Dinner is a quiet affair for mom and me, hanging out in front of the tv watching something we start over and over because we get chatting and forget the storyline.

And all too soon, my month in India is over, and I’m packing my bags to head home. The 24-hour return trip seems especially long. But still, I look forward to seeing the snow (NOT), and my family, and Oscar, my dog.

And then, the planning for my next visit can start...