Ja Simran, Ja: Shefali Shah’s Solo Rishikesh Adventure Sparks Conversations on Self-Discovery
Ja Simran, Ja: Shefali Shah's Solo Rishikesh Adventure Sparks Conversations on Self-Discovery
Shefali Shah, a talented actress celebrated for her powerful performances in films like ‘Darlings’ and series such as ‘Delhi Crime’, recently shared her experience of taking a solo trip. Like many women managing family duties and societal norms, she felt a sense of guilt about her decision. On Instagram, she posted moments from her journey to Rishikesh, including a vibrant photo of herself glowing after a river rafting adventure. In her candid caption, she revealed the internal struggle she faced when choosing to travel alone.
She mentioned, “My family really doesn’t know what they are missing. It’s not as though I didn’t try. The plan was for all four of us to come here but, the first hurdle was to align the dates of four people living in the same house under the same surname, probably as difficult as achieving celestial harmony where Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn align. (The next such alignment is due on 25th January 2025, make a note, must watch!)”
Despite her attempts to coordinate schedules and finalize a destination, her family ultimately opted out of the trip.
“‘Let’s chill at home together,’ they said. Together? The last time I saw all of us together was in the Diwali photograph. Upset would be the understatement of the century to describe how I felt,” she shared in her caption.
While Shah decided to go alone, the decision was not straightforward. She grappled with “moral dilemmas – ranging from doubt (Should I go? Or shouldn’t I?), guilt (How can I go alone without my family?), to major guilt (How can I spend so much on myself?).”
Ultimately, she took the leap and booked her tickets for a rejuvenating getaway in the “lap of nature.” In a powerful moment of self-affirmation, Shah reflected, “I look deeply into the eyes of this guilt-ridden, ‘I don’t deserve anything’ woman and holler: ‘Ja Simran, ja. Jee le apni zindagi.'” This statement captures her determination to embrace her own life and happiness despite the pressures she felt.
Friends, colleagues, and fans quickly filled the comments section with words of appreciation and encouragement for Shah’s brave decision. Maharani Radhikaraje Gaekwad expressed her admiration, stating, “This is one of the most authentic, relatable and vulnerable accounts I have read, admire you all the more.” Actor Tillotama Shome chimed in with, “Perfect and I am so glad you did this.”
Writer Anne Macomber shared her own experience, saying, “I feel it so deeply! I went on my first solo trip in September to Portugal and I was amazed at my own strength and clarity after it.” A relatable mom added, “Good for you for doing it all by yourself! As my teen daughter would say…’Yass Queen!'” These supportive comments highlight the impact of Shah’s journey and resonate with many who face similar dilemmas.
