A Soulful Journey to Kolhapur — Shrestha’s First Darshan

Some journeys in life leave a lasting imprint on your soul — not just because of the destination but because of the little moments, unexpected detours, and emotions along the way. Our trip to the Mahalaxmi Temple in Kolhapur was one such journey. It wasn’t just a road trip across state borders — it was a spiritual milestone for our family, marking the first darshan for our 8-month-old daughter, Shrestha. Although Shrestha had earlier been to Reddy in Maharashtra, this trip was special. It was her first time visiting a major temple — one steeped in history, devotion, and cultural grandeur. As parents, we were excited and emotional to witness this little chapter in her life unfold. We began our journey from Margao, Goa, on a serene evening. The sun had just begun its descent when we packed our bags, settled Shrestha comfortably in her baby seat, and hit the road with hearts full of anticipation. The air was thick with that familiar blend of monsoon dampness and dusk — a gentle reminder t...