Every destination has mountains , rivers, valleys, hotels, houses but what makes the place different are its people.
The first time I told my mother that I have to go to Afghanistan for a music video shoot. “NO” she yelled. Initially I too was reluctant for obvious reasons. But trust me guys after I reached there, I didn’t regret a bit. On the 4th of Sept we stepped onto the soil of Kabul airport .We were staying at a four star hotel , SAFI LANDMARK in Kabul city.With a few Indians working there I didn’t feel that I was in a foreign land.On the 5th of September we traveled to a place called PANJSHIR valley. Was delighted to see the scenic beauty – winding roads, valleys, river flowing between mountains. We reached the mountain top and got a panoramic view of that region. It was like heaven , a place never seen before. Up on top of the mountains was tomb of Afghanistan’s popular leader AHMAD SHAH MASOOD .
We had to shoot a TVC in Afghanistan (something that was not in our agenda ) apart from the music video recce .During this we came in contact with an organization called AINA where I met some Indian brothers. It was a privilege to meet Mr.Reza Deghati, a veteran photographer of National geographic and also the founder of AINA. I spend a couple of days with them. Also we were present on one of the most unforgettable days in the history of Afghanistan ,9th Sept , the death anniversary of Afghanistan’s leader Ahmad Shah Masood. When we stepped on the streets of Kabul, we witnessed rallies and processions conducted by his fans and followers. Time flew by and the day of our departure came,11th sept 2007.
It seemed like eight days were not enough, given an opportunity I would definitely want to visit that place again. I was deeply touched by the warm hospitality and love we received from the people there. I am still nostalgic about that place. Therefore I repeat what I said before what makes a place different are its people.
