Laal maas, leheriya saris, tiger safari – Paoli can’t have enough of Rajasthan

Flying in the new normal: In September, I took my first flight in the new normal to Jaipur from where I had to travel to Ranthambore for a shoot. I was both thrilled and anxious about travelling in the middle of a pandemic. Me being me, I took a double dose of all the necessary precautions. For instance, I usually wear not one, but two masks!

Love for the state: Rajasthan excites me because it is a glimpse into a fairy-tale world.At times, the place seems like a painting. With royal architecture, elegant saris, intricate jewellery, spectacular cuisine – it’s indeed a dream world. We stayed for 15 days at a palatial hotel and it was a wonderful feeling to wake up every morning in a place with gorgeous chandeliers, huge oil paintings and regal cutlery. Every big and small detail was par excellence. But what stood out for me was the tranquility of being far away from city life. I had my spot where I’d sip coffee and stare at the wonders of nature, and sometimes catch the sunset too.

Fun with food: All our meals included a few Rajput classics. I indulged in my all-time favourite laal maas every other day and thoroughly enjoyed their authentic dal baati churma as well.
Safari tales: On a day off, I went on safari at the iconic Ranthambore National Park with my team and co-actor Annup Sonii. Although we couldn’t spot any tigers, each of us was enthralled by the sheer beauty of the park. Scores and scores of trees, deers grazing all around and a million birds – it looked and felt heavenly.

B’day celebrations: My birthday happened to fall during the trip. The wonderful team pulled off a surprise celebration. They got me a cake and hosted a small party. It was such a nice gesture.
Shopping spree: I absolutely loved how I was styled to look like a Rajput princess for the character I was playing and there was no way I’d fly back home without buying a couple of leheriya saris. I just hope the COVID situation gets better soon and people can visit Rajasthan without fear and enjoy the immense beauty the state has to offer.