India, March 23 -- A silent understanding passed between us - a shared memory of our own meditation retreat in Rishikesh flashing in our minds

The wind carried secrets as we drove through the Nilgiri Hills. Each breath filled my lungs with the scent of wet earth and fresh tea leaves. My heart swelled with peace. These were not just hills covered in emerald green; they were living beings, ancient and wise, welcoming us into their misty embrace. Beside me, my friend sat in silence. Words felt heavy, unnecessary. Our eyes spoke volumes as they drank in the endless green tapestry unfolding before us. Sometimes, the deepest connections form in silence.We pulled over at a small hut nestled between thick trees.

An elderly shopkeeper with kind,...