Wanderlust by Ajay Khullar: A Journey Through Places, People, and the Soul

Discover the magic of Wanderlust by Ajay Khullar—a heartfelt travelogue blending vivid destinations, soulful musings, and the vibrant essence of humanity. A must-read for every explorer at heart!

Wanderlust by Ajay Khullar: A Journey Through Places, People, and the Soul
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Book Review of Wanderlust by Ajay Khullar

Wanderlust

Neelam Sharma
Author: Ajay Khullar

Narrative
Stories

When I picked up Wanderlust by Ajay Khullar, I had no idea it would feel like walking through the pages of my own story. This posthumously published work isn’t just a collection of travel narratives; it’s a deeply personal journey into the heart of exploration, self-discovery, and the quiet musings of a life well-lived. Khullar’s zest for life shines through every page of Wanderlust. As a travel journalist and former editor of Discover India magazine, his passion for exploration and storytelling was boundless. He once said, “My life’s candle burns at both its ends. It may not last long, but my friends, it will give a powerful light.” This philosophy permeates the book, making it not just a travelogue but a celebration of the human spirit.

What immediately struck me was Khullar’s voice—warm, witty, and full of life. His humour is subtle but sharp, and his observations are keen yet kind. The way he called a train journey “Little India on Wheels” left me smiling for days. If Khullar were alive, I have no doubt he would have been celebrated as one of the great writers of our time.

One of the most captivating parts of the book was his detailed account of the train journey from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari, spanning 4,286 km over 83 hours. Aptly titled the “Discovery of India,” this journey brought together people from different cultures, religions, and walks of life. Khullar beautifully described the scenes within the train as a microcosm of the country—a mix of languages, cuisines, and shared humanity. He wrote, “In a single compartment, you would find people from at least half a dozen states travelling together, sharing their food and lives, forming fleeting yet profound bonds.” This account resonated deeply with me. Having taken long train rides myself, I’ve experienced the magic of meeting strangers who became temporary companions, the shared meals that transcended linguistic and cultural divides, and the joy of exchanging stories. Khullar captured this essence perfectly, painting a vivid picture of how travel is not just about destinations but about the journey itself and the people we meet along the way.

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His travels also took readers across the kaleidoscopic landscapes of India and beyond—from the majestic Himalayas to the wild deserts of Thar, the serene Rann of Kutch, and the seductive beaches of Daman and Diu. Each destination, described with vivid detail, feels alive on the page. Each destination is described with such vividness that you can almost feel the desert winds, the serene snow-capped mountains, and the bustling energy of a foreign marketplace. In the chapter on Himachal Pradesh, Khullar’s words were particularly poignant: “The mountains are more than just a destination; they are a state of mind, a quiet retreat for the soul.” His reflections on Himachal’s tranquil beauty reminded me of my own encounters with nature’s grandeur.

Beyond India, Khullar’s adventures embraced the diversity of the world, from the bustling food streets of Taiwan to the blue lakes and towering Alps of Switzerland. His ability to weave cultural observations with personal anecdotes makes each chapter a revelation. One chapter that stood out was his poetic description of the white desert under moonlight in the Rann of Kutch. He wrote, “It felt like standing on the edge of the universe, where the land kissed the heavens, and silence was the only sound.” Such imagery transcends mere storytelling, inviting readers to see the world through his eyes.

But Wanderlust isn’t just about places; it’s about the moments between journeys, the quiet musings in his diary. One of my favourite quotes reads: “A journey isn’t about reaching a destination but discovering parts of yourself along the way.” These reflections are raw, introspective, and incredibly relatable. It felt as though Khullar had penned the thoughts I had long carried but never expressed.

For me, this book was more than just a read—it was an experience. It seamlessly blends humour, wisdom, and beauty, inspiring me to reflect on my own journeys and the stories I’ve yet to tell. It felt like he had written the book I’d always dreamed of but never could.

As I turned the last page, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. The world has lost a brilliant storyteller, but his legacy lives on in these pages. Wanderlust is a testament to Khullar’s talent and a reminder of the power of words to connect, inspire, and endure.

If you’re someone who loves travel stories, seeks deeper meaning in life, or simply enjoys a good dose of wit and humour, this book is for you. It’s a journey worth taking, a companion worth cherishing, and a voice worth remembering.

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