Empowering women, Harmeen Soch’s solo ventures challenging traditions

AMRITSAR: Over the past eight years, a woman professor has embarked on solo journeys across the globe, even venturing into the once restive region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Her experiences serve as a powerful example, encouraging women to liberate themselves from traditional constraints and forge their own path towards independence, becoming a beacon of inspiration for others.

In 2016, amid security concerns that had discouraged tourists from venturing into the volatile region of J&K, Harmeen Soch initiated an inspiring solo journey. Her expedition transcended the boundaries of the main city, Srinagar, as she explored towns and villages situated in proximity to the Line of Control (LoC). This set a compelling example during a period when few were willing to travel to the restive J&K, motivating scores of women.

"My first solo travel to J&K was in 2016 from Amritsar, where I stayed in a houseboat on Nigeen Lake. Unexpectedly, the tranquility of the valley was disrupted by widespread protests, stone pelting, and violence following the killing of militant leader Burhan Wani. As the unrest escalated, the houseboat owner advised me to depart and promptly arranged a taxi. The driver navigated the taxi through the restive areas, swiftly transporting me to the airport as I watched people pelting stones at security forces and smoke billowing from several buildings set on fire," said Harmeen, reflecting on her journey.

She emphasized that her initiation of a solo travel journey proved transformative, dispelling any lingering fears from her heart. From that solitary trip onward, she embraced a fearless mindset, never hesitating to explore and making multiple visits to J&K alone, venturing into villages situated in close proximity to the LoC and engaging with local residents.

Recounting another visit to Jammu and Kashmir in 2017, Harmeen shared her exploration of Hazrat Bal Dargah and Dachigam National Park, where locals expressed surprise at encountering a woman clad in jeans, prompting them to approach her with a myriad of intriguing questions.

Despite these experiences, Harmeen emerged as a source of inspiration for other women, encouraging them to break free from the constraints of tradition and the predominantly male-oriented world. In a society where women are often expected to stay home or adhere to familial expectations, her solo endeavors served as motivation for women to venture out and explore beyond societal limitations.

Harmeen attributed her wellspring of motivation to her family, particularly acknowledging her father's guidance throughout her solo travels. "He played a pivotal role in advising me on potential challenges and providing insights on how to effectively navigate and overcome them," she said.

She mentioned that she had traveled to almost all of South India and countries like the US, UK, Canada, etc., all alone.