As I stepped into the bustling airport, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of familiarity and comfort.
The familiar smells, sights, and sounds of my culture enveloped me, making me feel right at home.
This airport was not just a place of transit for me, it was a representation of my culture, my identity – a place that I could confidently call ‘my airport’.
Growing up in a country like India, airports were always associated with long-distance travel and family vacations.
As a child, I was always in awe of the grandeur and diversity that our country had to offer, and this was evident in the various airports that I traveled through.
From the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the artwork, to the aromatic smells of spices and street food, each airport had its own unique essence that reflected the culture of the city it was located in.
But it wasn’t just the sights and smells that made these airports special.
It was the people, the warm and welcoming faces of the airport staff that made me proud to be a part of such a diverse and hospitable culture.
Whether it was the security personnel greeting me with a warm smile, or the shopkeepers engaging in friendly banter, the airport was a reflection of the kindness and generosity that my culture is known for.
The food stalls and souvenir shops added to the charm of the airport, offering a plethora of options for travelers to experience the different cuisines and handicrafts of the region.
As I sat down to enjoy a hot and spicy plate of biryani, I noticed people from different backgrounds coming together to share a meal, creating a sense of community and togetherness.
One of the most unique aspects of my culture that I have come to appreciate through my experiences at different airports is the concept of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ which translates to ‘the guest is equivalent to God’.
This belief is deeply ingrained in our culture and is reflected in the way we treat visitors at our airports.
Every effort is made to ensure that travelers feel comfortable and at home, from providing assistance to those in need, to offering prayer rooms for people of different faiths.
Not only do these airports showcase the diverse cultures within India, but they also serve as a gateway to other countries, welcoming tourists and giving them a taste of the vibrant and rich culture of our nation.
This has helped build strong cultural ties and promote the concept of unity in diversity.
In recent years, I have had the opportunity to travel to other countries and experience their airports.
While each of them had their own charm, it was at that moment that I truly appreciated the uniqueness of my own culture and the strong cultural values that our airports represent.
The airport is not just a place for departures and arrivals, it is a cultural hub that represents the essence of my identity.
It is a place that connects me to my roots, fills me with a sense of belonging and instills a feeling of pride in my culture.
Every time I walk through the doors of my airport, I am reminded of the beauty and diversity of my culture and it fills me with a sense of gratitude and joy.
My culture, my airport, a place that I will always cherish and hold dear to my heart.