It is my third day in the dusty city of Bhopal. This place feels quite different from Indore, which I found to be very clean. Bhopal, unlike Indore, is more crowded and slightly smaller, yet it remains vibrant and full of life.

The best part of this city is the sunset in the late afternoon and evening. The sun burns bright as it slowly descends across the sky, visible over the vast lake that winds through the city. This lake is the Bada Talab, a place where families gather to enjoy boating and quiet moments together.

Bada Talab is a wonderful place to go boating. There is a small island in the middle of the lake where one can witness a truly breathtaking sunset. I was eager to capture some great shots as we sailed toward this island.

While boating on the lake, I noticed a mosque—ancient and serene—standing gracefully amidst the waters. It is a dargah dedicated to a revered peer and baba, known for offering peace and solace to all who visit. Bhopal has a sizeable Muslim population, and they are an integral part of the city’s cultural and social life.

The dargah offered a fascinating view of the lake. I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunsets as I stood there and prayed at the grave of the great baba. I placed flowers around the tomb and prayed for my father’s soul.

Wherever I have gone—be it a temple, a mosque, or a church—I have always prayed for my slain father. I ask for only one thing: that his killers receive justice.

I walked around the dargah and felt a deep sense of peace. The lake stretched out before me, and the sun—an orange ball of fire—floated just above the horizon. Its glow shimmered across the water, as if the lake itself was absorbing its fading light, bit by bit.

Bhopal

I was beginning to like Bhopal. It has a certain texture and soul—more ancient, more layered, with a mood entirely its own. As summer approaches, the heat becomes intense, and even the evenings offer little relief. To cope, I found myself enjoying sugarcane juice, ice cream, and cold soda to stay refreshed.

I enjoyed the boat ride. We wore life jackets, and I sat carefully as the boatman handled his work with ease and confidence. Soon, we had completed a wide and satisfying round of the lake. It was a gentle, unhurried experience—slow, yet deeply fulfilling.

I had started to understand the rhythm of the city. With Vidhani by my side, I had good company. We often took electric autos to move around—an easy and efficient way to travel. The roads are decent, though traffic can build up in the central market areas.