In olden times, the path to these temples was narrow and through forests. Devotees carried offerings and climbed up until they reached their shrine. The devotees had to overcome difficulties and face challenges in their pursuit of the ‘truth’. The narrow path that allows only a single file also indicates that everyone is on their own personal journey. Though they get help from a ‘guru’ or their friends and associates ultimately they have to proceed on their own and develop trust and faith in themselves.

We fly from the hills. From the slopes of the majestic mountains. As we carry our paragliders on our back (not so much climbing since most take – offs are drivable) and walk towards the take off, it is nothing short of a pilgrimage for us. Our gliders a means to help us fly, be free from our worldly ties and taste the oneness with the wind and the sky! Though we are with friends and teachers, our journey is also within, and alone. We have to face our fears and let go of our doubts and just fly!

So, as I tribute to the journey of the pilgrim (pilot) to his shrine (the hills) seeking the ‘truth’ (flight) we call ourselves ‘temple pilots’.