After a long time I had an opportunity to attend an event, this time it was Valley Crossing at Kanheri Caves. I was pretty excited since I didnt want to miss on this one like the past events and the excitement stimulated me through the night, keeping me awake till twilight.

As decided, Shirish and Me along with my driver, left my place by 5.15 am; Hemant joined in at Nahur and we made it to Rohit’s place (Matunga) within next 16 minutes. The driver was sent by train to NP main gate while I took over the wheel. Enroute destination, we picked up the equipments and the remaining team. Before the main gates opened, attendence and “Hafta Vasuli” was done and the event was organised to serve 2 bathches at a difference of an hour. Around 4 trips in the car and one trip by the NP-Kanheri Bus service took all the participants at the venue. By the time the last batch reached the event had already started. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the valley crossing, tho it wasnt scary at all neither was it of a higher grade. A special mention about the 2 year old kid Khush who was the youngest participant of the day. The way he waved his hand to everyone when at the mid of the rope was the most facinating moment of the day. Hatts off to the kid!!! Not to mention my encounter(s) with the snake…. this is happening like a routine for me from past few outings… I have no clue of how do I interpret this ??!!!??! After the participants were done; the organisers took a chance too before winding up the event.

Post valley crossing was the more important aspect of any NB event “Ab kya kare ?? hum sab bhukkad jo theyrey!! “. Chana Masala and Chapatis brought by Parag Dada was the most tasty item but it was not all.. we also had butter, bread, theplas, fruits and a lot more which were equally good. Now was the time for some introductions and group photograph. People who wished to visit the caves would stay back while others could leave !! A small cleanliness drive by the participants leaving early kept up the NB spirit.

The caves and the carvings on it were outstanding…. the carvings and the structures themselves speak of the skills than. After some sightseeing, we waived bye to the cave colony. Enroute we saw a herd of dears which was a great part of the trip, witnessing the animals in their natural environment… is always a treat to see. Sameer, Tatya and Me did step out of the car to take a closer look and click a few snaps. I have no words to explain the feeling while seeing them from close….

On the return journey, a small yet relaxing hault at Parag dada’s place marked the end of the day. Overall it was a great day for me…. Atlast I had made it for some outing, which I needed desperately before getting geared up for my final year examinations.