To everyone living in metro cities (including me), we long for rural life. And for the ones tired of the corporate life, we always want to go settle down in the pahadis, in an isolated house overseeing the snow-clad mountains. That is my idea of peace! BUT…
Thanks to Deepak Singh Bisht, a vlogger from Uttarakhand whose videos made me realize how privileged we are to be living in metro cities or at well-connected places. Don’t misunderstand me, I am still in awe of Himalayas and would love to visit the place every now and then to get a break from the hustle and bustle of city and steal my share of peace of mind. The only difference now is that now I know that pahadi life is not rosy at all. They have their share of struggles along with ups and downs.
Living in a constant fear of being hit by natural calamities especially landslides, Cool Pahadi’s videos have taught me to smile in the face of adversity, to take life as it comes. The physical, emotional, and mental strength of these people – from 90-years-old to 3-years-old, is commendable. When I see them de-construct and construct an entire house themselves, I simply sit back and wonder if privilege has made us lazy. When I see them grow their own food and run at the midnight to the farms, on pitch dark roads to save the crops from wild animals, I thank God for easy availability of food. Apart from the farms, saving their animals is another huge responsibility which they shoulder well.
What amazes me the most is that where people with the most liberties fear to undertake challenges, these people are ready to take the bull by the horns, always. Another things that I really appreciate about Cool Pahadi is the way he manages to upload content daily, without fail from the Pahadis where they face network issues as well as many other problems on a day to day basis – these might be due to natural calamities or animal attacks. He is still consistent. That dedication is rare.
Cool Pahadi is also a great channel to get to understand the pahadi culture- from their wedding to their lifestyle and food. Other than the breathtaking views from his house, it’s the simple food that makes me want to pack my bags and travel to Uttarakhand. I remember watching this colocasia leaves recipe which I so feel like making but more than making, I want to try the local, authentic recipe. Even if any of us crack the recipe in any part of the world, I am sure it won’t taste anything like the one made in Uttrakhand. I truly thank Deepak Bisht for letting us explore this rich culture from the comfort of our homes, especially in the lockdown where most of us are missing travelling.
And yes, how can I forget to mention Deepak Bisht’s nephew, Rishu here. What a cutie! My Mom has been watching Cool pahadi from quite some time now but I started watching it regularly after Rishu almost took over his Chachu’s channel. The way he says, ‘Chachu,’ it just melts my heart. The way this tiny tot fearlessly keeps jumping from here and there, he reminds me of Mowgli, a tiny little friend of the jungle.
The Digital Popcorn 