The Inescapable Nostalgia: What I Miss Most About Pilani

Life at Pilani, or BITS Pilani as it is more formally known, is a mix of the exciting and the mundane, all blended with a healthy dose of nostalgia. What I miss the most is the very essence of what made Pilani unique: the people, the ambiance, and the freedom that are hard to find anywhere else.

People and the Sense of Home

Nothing comes close to the warmth and sincerity of the people you meet at Pilani. It's not just your family and friends, but the genuine realness that one experiences in such a vibrant community. The sense of feeling at home, the specific air that fills the campus, and the deep-rooted bond with every nook and cranny of the place make it hard to forget. Pilani is more than a university; it's a home away from home.

Memories and Fragrances

The memories are what stay with you long after you leave. From the iconic fried Maggi at Krishna Reddy's stall to the quintessential MNB at Sharma's, each dish is not just a meal but a nostalgic trip back. The Cheese Mayo at Skylab and the chai at VK Reddy continue to bring back the warmth of that era. And let's not forget the late-night downloads and DC (Dorm Council) meetings that kept us glued together until the small hours. Even the closed curtain sessions at Vatika were a treasured experience. Not everyone had the inside track to these experiences, but for those in the know, they were (and are) priceless.

The Essence of Freedom

Perhaps the most cherished memory is the freedom that was so easily accessible at Pilani. The clear starry nights, the chirping of birds that accompany the early morning light, and the magnificent clock tower as the backdrop of the skyline. The sleep schedule was flexible as there was a sense of not being in a strict routine, and the freedom to explore the campus anytime was liberating. This sense of freedom was both liberating and nostalgic.

Life and Lite

Life at Pilani is about Lite. It's about the simplicity of moments, the camaraderie with friends, and the comfort of familiarity. Though we can recreate the physical environment anywhere, the essence of Pilani and the feelings attached to it can be recreatable anywhere. The memories help us when we miss them too much, acting as a constant reminder of our profound experiences there.

Conclusion

Leaving Pilani is never truly leaving. The memories and the essence of Pilani stay with you no matter where life takes you. It is a feeling that will always resonate within, a reminder of a time that was filled with growth, joy, and unforgettable moments.