New Girl in Town
“And I think to myself what a wonderful world.” I woke up this morning with Louis Armstrong’s heartening song playing in my head. I looked outside, as I could hear rain hitting my window. It looked magical. I instantly sensed a feeling of completeness, like I always belonged here. Somehow I felt I was in the right place finally. This small town had opened its arms and welcomed me gleefully and I was glad to be a part of it.
After living for 23 years in the ever enterprising Mumbai, shifting permanently to the small temple town of Udupi was a big move. Having been born and raised in Mumbai, I was a complete Mumbaikar at heart. I was a city girl. Relocation was a big deal. Taking this step meant a complete lifestyle change. One has to begin things from scratch. Was I ready to do this?
As I sat there thinking about the last few months and all the pandemonium that followed–the most lucid question to ask was if the move was worth it. The answer was indubitably yes. Moving is a big challenge but I knew I had made an apt choice. I had at last moved from the bustling city of Mumbai to the tranquil township of Udupi.
The quality of life here is immensely better. Contrary to the clamorous city that never sleeps, Udupi is plausibly more peaceful and clean. For this reason, the move was a welcome change. Infrastructure on the whole is very sustainable. The scenery and beauty of the area is just extraordinary. Morning walks have become a daily routine. It would be strenuous to do so in the crammed city of Mumbai. People are very forthcoming. Medical treatment is exceptionally better. The care and immediate attention that my father received when he was hospitalized here due to serious illness was remarkable. Crime and violence are low here as opposed to Mumbai. Education system is very efficient. One of the top most education institutes in India, Manipal University is also located here. Students who graduate from the educational institutions here come out as winners.
I am an alumna of Manipal Institute of Communication. My joy knew no bounds after receiving the call from the University informing me that I had been accepted. I had fallen in love with the place immediately. Back then, I always used to wonder what it would be like if I were to come and stay here permanently. At that point in time, it seemed like an impossible thing. So I shrugged it off. Who would have guessed that my wish would come true one day!
Someone rightfully said that everything happens for a reason. Presently, that is something I know to be true. Overall, my new home town has given me various opportunities to grow and learn as an individual. I would recommend it to anyone. If you get the chance to relocate to Udupi, you should take it without a doubt. Even though it will be a big change, it will be worth the effort.
