Parakh's sweet memories of home town

Monday, September 24, 2007

Parakh Madan aka Suman of 'Saathii Re' was born and brought up in Ranchi, and has very fond memories of the place. She thinks that everyone should visit the city and the nearby areas, at least once.

Ranchi is a hill station, with a wonderful climate throughout the year, says Parakh. Apparently, even the summers are not too hot. Her favourite place is Tagore Hills, where Rabindranath Tagore used to sit and write all his poetry and prose. When she was growing up, Ranchi was a small city, but, since it became the capital of Jharkhand, it is inching its way towards becoming a metropolitan.

Parakh was a student of DPS (Delhi Public School), in Ranchi. She says, "I have great memories of my schooldays. The Ranchi branch of DPS is considered to be one of the best, and there are some very good teachers there." She also recalls her favourite hang out place, before the malls came in – "There was a place named Gel Church Complex, about 20 minutes away from my house, which had all the best eateries and shops. My friends and I used to go there at least twice a week."

Ranchi may not be a hot tourist spot, but that is because that part of the country is generally considered unsafe, Parakh thinks. She strongly recommends a visit, and adds that there are other sites to visit, like the Bodh Gaya.

We think the Jharkhand tourist department should make her its ambassador. She is clearly very passionate about her home town. No place like home – right, Parakh?