Dear Delhi,
It’s that time of the year again, and I can’t help but fall in love with you all over. The streets shimmer with lights, little winter chills make me reach for my jacket, and somehow, everything feels cozy like the city is wrapping me in a warm, familiar hug. I’ve been here for three and a half years now, but my heart has been with you since I was a child visiting my masi on holidays. You were this thrilling, boundless city, full of tastes, noises, and options I had only heard of or seen on screen.
Having come from Agra, you always led the way – where else could I taste waffles, momos, and other trendy food for the first time? All new, all exciting, it all occurred here. And when I chose to move to this place for college, I had to battle tooth and nail with my parents, being an only child, leaving home wasn’t easy. But I knew I had to be here, because somewhere inside, I had always loved you.
Malviya Nagar, my little corner of you, has become my favourite place. My PG, the roads, the vibe, they all feel like home. And yes, my little ritual of sitting by myself with a cup of caramel coffee at NBC? That’s my favorite form of therapy. I haven’t seen everything of you yet and I don’t feel the rush, because I know I’m here for the long haul. Unlike a tourist counting sights, I am learning your soul slowly, bit by bit, day by day.
Delhi, you have transformed me. The reserved, unsure, introverted girl from Agra who didn’t know how to do things independently is no more. Now, I can dine alone, walk alone, stay alone, and truly have fun with myself. Yes, there are days that are quiet and a bit isolating, but I’ve never felt more alive, more like myself anywhere else. And truly, it’s because of you. You were my reason, my incentive to test limits, to venture into a life I never imagined could be mine.
You provided me with my first job, first paycheck, and most significantly, my own identity. The individuals I’ve encountered here, the discussions I’ve had, the sidewalks I’ve strolled, you’ve made me me. Even your polluted air feels like liberty, like potential. You’re a mess, wonderful, boisterous, noisy and beautiful all at the same time. You test me, you shock me, you soothe me. And in these small winter days, with lights flashing all around and the city buzzing with festive happiness, I simply want to inhale you, linger, and be here, fully.
Thank you, Delhi, for being everything I needed and more. For giving me space to grow, to stumble, to celebrate little victories, and to fall in love with life, with myself, and with you.
Forever your starry-eyed fan,
A girl hopelessly in love!