Runner Up - Bucket List Competition

~By Anuska Sarkar, 24MM91R02

Beyond the Norm: A Unique Bucket List Picks
In a world driven with materialistic pursuits and responsibilities, a bucket list serves as a reminder that one can follow to break the mundane chain of daily life. It is not just about ticking off the items and fulfilling each of the desires, but also discovering oneself through unique experiences that can lead to personal development. Here is a list of 10 items that I would love to enlist in my bucket list.

1. Visit Mt. Kangrinboque
   Nestled in the Indo-China border, Mt. Kangrinboque, famously known to be Kailash Parvat is considered to be the spiritual centre of the Universe. The journey to Kailash- Mansarovar itself is a Parikrama of 14 days that would lead the pilgrims to view the holy glances of the mountain from different sides. One of my lifetime wishes is to be a part of this sacred journey of humility and spiritual awakening. Although this Parikrama is extremely challenging, crossing along the rugged terrains and high mountainous passes, I believe that it is something more than just a journey. Fulfilling this item would definitely evoke a sense of serenity and connection to something greater than my own self. I believe that this journey would be the reason of my profound spiritual manifestation and personal transformation.

2. Join a pottery class
   A very random but thoughtful desire of mine is to join a pottery class. The whole process of pottery, from moulding the clay to giving a proper structure artistically and finally transforming it into a vessel, is extremely therapeutic. I believe that joining a weekly pottery workshop would definitely soothe my mind and break the monotonous spectrum of life. Moreover, it would also allow me to join a community who share similar interest as mine in this type of hobby.

3. Create a diorama of a beautiful landscape
   Diorama, as in creating miniature models of any scene, landscape or architectures, is another kind of unique passion that I would love to enlist on my bucket list. I believe that modelling a diorama takes lot of patience and perseverance, from creating intricate and realistic miniature items to assembling them on the scene and finally transforming it into a whole mini world. It would represent as memorabilia of any place, any unforgettable memory or any significant incident of my life, offering a moment of escape from reality, each time I look at it.

4. Be an organ donor
   Choosing to be an organ donor is one of the most selfless and impactful decisions that I can make. Becoming an organ donor doesn’t cost anything, but the impact it can have on others is immeasurable. I believe that it is a quiet and powerful act of generosity that reflects my willingness to help others, even beyond my lifetime. Knowing that my organs could save lives gives me a profound sense of purpose and connection to the broader human community.

5. Learn driving
   Learning to drive is believed to be a valuable life skill that offers freedom, independence, and the ability to explore new places on my own terms. It is a step towards self-reliance, allowing me to navigate the world more freely and spontaneously. The process involves overcoming initial fears, mastering the mechanics of driving, and developing the confidence to handle different road situations. Each successful driving lesson would build my confidence and the sense of accomplishment, opening the door to countless adventures and trips.

6. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) solo trek
   A very daring and challenging desire of mine on my bucket list is to explore the great outdoors on my own terms. It would allow me to immerse myself in nature, challenging myself both physically and mentally, and experiencing the serenity of solitude. It would offer me a sense of self-discovery, the chance to know my capabilities of tackling the difficulties of the outdoor world and navigating through my fears. Finally, the sense of accomplishment upon completing the trek, having relied solely on myself, would be incredibly fulfilling.

7. Write a novel and publish it
   Writing a novel is yet another yearning of mine that I would want to fulfil atleast once in my life. To write something is a journey of self-expression, creativity and imagination that allows to share one’s unique views, voices or perspectives with the world. I believe that the whole writing process requires dedication, patience, and perseverance, navigating plot twists, character development, and the inevitable moments that come completely from the writer’s mind. The end result is publishing the novel and sharing it with the world, which would be the greatest reward.

8. Attend an international conference
   Attending an international conference is an obvious wish for me like any other academician or pursuing students. Exposing myself to a worldwide community of researchers, scientists, academicians and professionals would definitely offer me a wide range of opportunities and new collaborations. But pondering on the deeper desire is that it would also give me a pretty chance to visit a foreign country!

9. Do stargazing in Hanle
   Hanle, located in the Ladakh region of India, is renowned for its pristine night skies and exceptional stargazing conditions. Its high altitude, remote location, and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places in the world to observe the stars and celestial phenomena. So definitely, stargazing in Hanle would be an item in my bucket list for its breathtaking scenic views and an unforgettable cosmic experience.

10. Open an Art Studio
    Opening an Art Studio would be my very last wish to fulfil, probably after my retirement when I would want to live a slow life filled with creativity and passion. I would share my artistic knowledge to others through workshops and tutorials. The studio would be my personal and peaceful space till my last breath where I would keep experimenting my art skills and inspire others.