Trading Traffic for Tides: Our Big Move to Goa

Moving to Goa might have seemed like one of those spontaneous, 'Let’s just do it!' moments—a shock to our close friends and family. But for me, it was a long time coming. It took me three years to convince Upesh, and in the end, my health was the deciding factor.

Suhag, my pottery chum, played a big role in making the move easier—she invited us to three consecutive editions of the Dona Paula Potters in Goa, a group of enthusiastic ceramic artists—of which I’m now proudly a part. That truly sealed the deal. Pottery has been a lifelong dream, and I always knew that before turning 50, I’d become a sort of full-fledged ceramic artist. Now, I’m well on my way—so close!

The Big Move

Our dear friend Anand, whom I lovingly call Kutz, drove all the way from Cochin to Bangalore just to lend a hand—proof that he must be truly mad to put up with us! With his help, we packed up our main luggage and sent it off with the famous Agarwal Packers and Movers, trusting their promise that it would arrive in two days.

With a big sigh, Upesh, Anand, and I set off on our road trip to Goa in two cars, both packed to the brim with our precious belongings.

Scenes from our journey: Upesh, deeply invested in his tiny lock, while the Agarwal Packers effortlessly seal away our entire luggage—out of sight for a week! breathtaking monsoon view as we head toward our new home and new adventures. Anand, Upesh, and I, finally in Goa after the long drive from Bangalore. And finally, our ever-reliable friend Brahmi with Koushik, and Arha with us after some Holi dabbing!

But Goa had other plans!

In true Goan style, our main luggage took its own sweet time, arriving not in two days but a whole week later. Stranded and unprepared, we were rescued by Brahmi, our ever-reliable friend, who took us in without a second thought. That’s when it hit us—we were officially in Goa. The susegad life had begun.

The plumber showed up two days late, the carpenter is still pending, the mosquito mesh is "on its way," and finding a cook feels like an impossible task. After my last experience with a cook in Bangalore, I might still be dealing with PTSD! A friend of mine, who has been living in Goa for almost 12 years and hates cooking, still hasn’t found a cook—so I’m not holding my breath. For now, Upesh and I take turns cooking and vacuuming, thanks to our newfound obsession—Dyson!

And honestly, we’re still just getting started. From our 110% broker to a crime lawyer and the Cartas gas connection, settling in has been an adventure in itself. More on that in my next post—plenty of stories to tell!

A Pottery-Filled December

As if settling in wasn’t chaotic enough, I also had a ceramics showcase in December 2024. Between moving, working, and managing the house, I was furiously making new pieces for the event. And I’m not joking—I was stressed! Last time, I sold out completely, and it was so embarrassing to have just a few pieces left on the last day. This time, I was determined to make a lot more.

With Upesh helping me, we worked day and night, pushing ourselves to the limit. Then came the firing—an adventure in itself. We made multiple trips to Mudskipper Pottery, run by Clayton and Nimmi, ensuring everything was fired in time. It was a whirlwind of stress, excitement, and relief—but in the end, we did it. I still sold out!

This whole experience deserves its own post—stay tuned for all the details!

Upesh and I, hard at work minding our stall on the last day—by which we mean occasionally glancing at my ceramic pieces and his tape art between long chats and snack breaks. The second picture is the grand finale—Suhag, my pottery godmum, raising a toast with her fabulous fox mug (which she made, of course) to celebrate a successful event!

The Goa Life

But here’s the upside—life here is so much more relaxed. We go out more—rock concerts, stand-up comedy, new restaurants, and endless beach-hopping. In Bangalore, just the thought of traffic would’ve killed those plans. And when we need a breather, a walk on the beach, feeling the waves at our feet, instantly resets everything.

We did downsize from a spacious villa with a garden to a cozy flat, but it comes with beautiful backwater views and a glimpse of the Mandovi River. My precious little plants—the succulents and orchids I managed to salvage from Bangalore—are thriving on our big balconies. Though I had to leave many behind, these favorites made the journey with me.

And with just the internet keeping us connected, work and life blend together—never a dull moment!

We’ve had a stream of guests coming and going—but we’re not complaining! Just give us a little break before the next wave arrives!

A few of my favourite things! A perfect beach day, a beautiful view from our balcony, and some unforgettable concerts— ‘Indian Ocean’ spot me moment with Brahmi, plus getting up close at Bryan Adams’ concert! Celebrating Upesh’s birthday with cake cutting and beach fun at Arossim with Sujata and the kids from Siliguri, Rita Nini and family on their first Goa adventure all the way from Kalimpong, and finally, my precious succulent.

Old Quiz Buddies, New Connections

One of the best things about being here has been reconnecting with the quizzing community. Annie and Anjali, our quiz-loving friends, welcomed us back into SEQC Goa (Sunday Evening Quiz Club Goa). The last time we quizzed together was back in 2013 at ICG. We lost touch, but when we reconnected last year, it felt like no time had passed. They welcomed us with open arms, and just like that, we were back in the quizzing circle.

Now, let’s be clear—I’m no intellectual! But SEQC is such a warm and inclusive space that we instantly felt at home. In the beginning, it was serious brain gymnastics for Upesh and me, but we’re slowly getting the hang of it—even if we always leave feeling a bit brain-fried.

An added perk was the SEQC’s all-women quizmaster event for Women’s Day. I somehow found the courage to volunteer, and Anjali and Devika—probably in a moment of madness—asked if I’d do a round of 10 questions. Before I knew it, I was deep into preparing a set on art history.

Shashwat, considered one of the 'baap' of all quizmasters, guided me—giving tips on how to frame my questions and how to handle the hecklers vying for extra points. And Devika was my Yoda master, full of encouragement.

The big day arrived, and all five of us quizmasters brought something fresh and unique to the table. It was an incredible experience—creating the slides, researching questions, and hosting the round (though I still need to figure out the scoring!). It was a day to remember, thanks to all the brilliant women and the men who behaved themselves!

The best part was Upesh gave me the look—hmmm, my lady is quite intelligent! Which he sometimes forgets… but hey, good to remind him now and then!

Goa has been a fresh start—an adventure, an adjustment, and a chance to slow down. And I think we’re finally settling in

And finally, my quizzing buddies! Annie and I striking a ‘Challenge us if you dare’ pose, me looking all please be kind, it’s my first quizmaster gig, and the fabulous five—Devika, Naintara, me, Anjali, and Ruchira in her gorgeous saree!