“It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing themselves and finding themselves”
My journey into the thrilling world of paragliding began in 2016, when my aunt introduced me to Templepilots paragliding school in Talegaon during my college break. With their basic course, I experienced the thrill of flying solo for the very first time. Unfortunately, my busy schedule with degree college put a halt to my paragliding dreams.
But then came the pandemic, locking me in my 9-to-5 Oracle job with nothing but monotony to keep me company. That’s when I decided to break free and pursue my passion for paragliding. In February 2022, I returned to Templepilots to complete the advanced course and immerse myself in the incredible world of paragliding.
It was during this time that the flying bug really took hold of me. I spent most of my days at the school, soaking up everything there was to know about paragliding and working side-by-side with the experts. After saving up, I even bought my own glider and headed off to Bali, Indonesia. As I soared high above the stunning coastline of Bali, Indonesia, I was left speechless by the beauty of the landscape below. The crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green forests created a mesmerizing tapestry that seemed almost unreal. The feeling of the wind rushing past me as I glided through the air was both exhilarating and peaceful. I will always remember this breathtaking coastal flying experience as one of the highlights of my travels and an unforgettable adventure that left me in awe of Bali’s natural beauty. The trip was a game-changer, and I knew then and there that I wanted to make a career out of my passion.
To take my skills to the next level, I spent 15 unforgettable days in Bir, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, completing even more advanced courses. Flying in Bir with griffon vultures of the Himalayas was an experience of a lifetime. As I soared through the skies with these majestic creatures, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the surrounding mountains and the incredible sight of the vultures gliding effortlessly through the air. It was an awe-inspiring experience to witness their incredible wingspan and graceful flight, and to be a part of their world for a brief moment in time. I will always cherish this unforgettable experience and the memories it has left me with. There, I also discovered the immense potential that paragliding holds in India, and decided to approach the lovely founders of Templepilots, Anita Deshpande and Avi Malik, about joining their team. And to my delight, they welcomed me with open arms!
Now, I am a trainee instructor at Templepilots, working my way up to becoming a certified instructor, and even training to take part in paragliding competitions across the world. Teaching paragliding has been a truly rewarding experience for me, not just because it allows me to share my passion for the sport, but also because it gives me the opportunity to meet new and amazing people. Every student I have taught has brought their own unique perspective, experiences, and personality to the classroom, and it’s been a joy to work with them and share in their journey of learning to paraglide. It’s a privilege to see the transformation that happens when someone learns to fly and to watch them grow in confidence and skill. The satisfaction of knowing that I have played a small role in helping people achieve their dreams of flying is immeasurable. The connections I have made and the impact I have had on people’s lives through teaching paragliding is something that I will always cherish. My journey has been an incredible ride, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next!
I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mother, Devyani Prakash Joisher and my sister, Riddhi Darshit Sheth, who have been instrumental in helping me pursue my passion as my career. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance have been invaluable to me, and without them, I would not be where I am today. I am truly blessed to have such amazing women in my life, and I cannot thank them enough for their love and support.
The scope for paragliding in India is immense, with its diverse landscape and natural beauty providing a perfect playground for paragliding enthusiasts. From the Himalayan mountains in the north to the beaches of Goa and the Western Ghats in the south, India boasts a wide range of terrains for paragliding.
Paragliding has been steadily growing in popularity in India, with an increasing number of enthusiasts taking up the sport. Many paragliding schools and clubs have emerged across the country, offering courses, training, and equipment to aspiring pilots.
Additionally, paragliding competitions and events are also gaining momentum in India, with both national and international events being held in various locations throughout the year. These events not only showcase the talents of the pilots but also promote tourism and generate revenue for the host cities.
Moreover, paragliding can be a lucrative career option for those with a passion for flying. The demand for certified paragliding instructors is on the rise, and many schools and clubs are constantly on the lookout for skilled pilots to join their team.
Overall, the scope for paragliding in India is vast and promising, and with the right training and resources, it can be an exciting and fulfilling career or hobby.
“The value of an experience is measured by its power to transform life”
