~ Sinead Ellison - ICB member & Irish mahjong novice who loves to explore
As we embarked on our journey to bid farewell to a beloved friend before she packs her bags and moves on from Bangalore, we found ourselves in the 180 year old Ootacamund Club, located on the Nilgiri (Blue Mountains) hills high up in the air. It is almost 7000 feet above sea level in the picturesque town of Ooty, nestled amidst rolling hills and serene landscapes. However, our purpose extended beyond merely soaking in the beauty of this quaint town; it was about cherishing moments and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Our chosen pastime for this farewell trip? The timeless game of Mahjong. As we gathered around the table, the clacking of tiles mingled with laughter and reminiscences, forming the soundtrack of our final moments together.
Mahjong, with its intricate rules and strategies, served as a perfect metaphor for our friendships. Each tile represented a unique aspect of our bond – the highs, the lows, and the shared experiences that had brought us closer together over the years.
We journeyed back in time with a historical walk in this enchanting hill station. As we wandered through its colonial past, we marvelled at the grandeur of the Stone House and St. Stephen's Church, each wall narrating tales of bygone eras. The charming lanes lined with quaint cottages, reminiscent of a simpler time and the rich cultural heritage of the Toda tribe at the Toda Mund settlement, where tradition and authenticity thrive. With each step, we immersed ourselves in Ooty's captivating history, where every corner reveals a new chapter waiting to be explored.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the tranquil landscape, we reached the final rounds of our Mahjong game. With each tile placed, we savoured the moments together, knowing that they would soon become treasured memories.
So here's to our farewell trip to Ooty, where Mahjong became more than just a game – it became a testament to the strength of our friendships, the memories we hold dear and magical experiences yet to be made.