Lost In The Wilderness
A Real Summer Adventure
The summer of 2022 held the promise of adventure as we set out to visit our family friends who owned a vast piece of land near the majestic Shivalik Hills. Their plans to develop a housing project on this land, just outside the city, drew us in. Little did we know that this trip would lead us to the heart of a thrilling and suspenseful adventure.
Our group was diverse, ranging in age from 10 to 65. Enthusiastic youngsters, middle-aged adults, and seasoned elders were all part of our motley crew. Our main goal was to explore the land and understand the potential for the housing project. However, we had no clue of the adventure that lay ahead.
Fueled by curiosity and a desire for exploration, the landowner's wife decided to venture deep into the property. The property’s location at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills was known for its wilderness and frequent wildlife sightings. The caretaker had even informed us about pug marks left by big cats in the area. Given the risks, our initial plan was simple: to explore the vicinity before nightfall and then return to the safety of the campsite.
With the caretaker leading the way, we followed him into the thick underbrush. The path was overgrown with wild plants, and there was no clear trail. Thorny vegetation lined our path, and, to our surprise, some among us were wearing impractical, fancy footwear that began to give way under the harsh conditions. Large honeybee hives loomed overhead, buzzing ominously, adding an extra layer of suspense to our adventure.
The wilderness was filled with surprises, but the most challenging obstacle was yet to come. We were cautioned not to make loud noises to avoid attracting bees. As we followed the trail, it suddenly forked, and one of our group, who had been this way before, assured us that it was a shortcut. Reluctantly, we followed her lead.
As we ascended the steep hillside, we quickly realized that the trek was becoming more treacherous. The younger members of our group were eager to forge ahead, while the older ones began to struggle on the steep terrain. Thoughts of turning back crossed our minds, but the steep incline we had ascended made the idea seem impossible. We had no choice but to press on.
Our anxiety grew as we encountered a dead prey carcass, a stark reminder that leopards frequented this area. Fear settled in as we were advised to make loud noises to deter wild animals. After navigating steep slopes, we ran out of water. Dusk was falling, and the lack of network signal meant we couldn’t call for help. Our caretaker, who had taken a shortcut, had disappeared, leaving us to find our way back on our own.
Desperation set in, and we began to pray fervently for guidance and protection. Then, miraculously, our prayers seemed to be answered. The distant sounds of temple prayers reached our ears, giving us hope that safety was within reach. But it was still some distance away, and we had to overcome a concrete dam-like structure that seemed to block our path.
To our relief, there was no water in sight, and we managed to cross the structure. We found ourselves on a wide, open plain, rekindling our hope. We made a rush toward the sound of temple prayers, confident that we were drawing closer to safety.
As we continued, more surprises awaited. We stumbled upon a two-wheeler, and we thought it might offer assistance, but its riders were also lost and seeking direction. Further along our path, a herd of wild cattle charged toward us, causing momentary panic. On a distant hill, mob of deer observed our movements.
As we continued on our path, an eerie sight met our eyes — signs of black magic etched into the earth. These symbols and images, usually the work of secretive Tantriks, were scattered in a secluded place. Names of individuals were inscribed, and it became clear that these markings were intended to impact them in some sinister way. Our guide informed us that these rituals were conducted at the stroke of midnight, under the shroud of darkness.
We couldn’t help but be drawn to this mystic display, but a voice of caution emerged from the group. “Do not touch any of these black magic items,” we were warned, “for it may cast a malevolent spell upon you.” The tension in the air grew, and curiosity battled against fear within us.
One among us couldn’t resist the urge to look back at this unholy sight. But the words of our guide echoed, “Do not look back, for if you do, it may follow you.” The suspense grew, as we pondered what malevolent forces might be lurking just behind us, waiting for an opportunity to cast their dark magic.
Our adventure was far from over. After covering more miles, the temple prayers grew louder, indicating that we were on the right path. Suddenly, a jeep appeared, and the driver kindly offered to transport some of us back to the main road, where our vehicles were waiting. The remaining group members waited for a second trip.
Finally, we reached the main road, where our cars were parked, marking the end of our harrowing adventure. It had been an experience filled with suspense, excitement, and moments of fear. Our collective relief at reaching safety was palpable.
As we drove back home, we couldn’t help but reflect on the unpredictable beauty of the wilderness we had ventured into. It had been a thrilling and suspenseful escapade, a journey into the unknown. This unforgettable adventure had left us with a profound appreciation for nature’s grandeur and the importance of being prepared when exploring the wild, all while testing the limits of our courage and resilience.
