Lumina: A Look into the Future

Hey there! It's been a minute since my last post, but I'm back! Come along and explore "Lumina," a futuristic city concept I've been thinking about.

Lately, life has been feeling a bit mundane. With nothing particularly exciting happening, I started thinking about a place where life would be easier and more interesting, with innovative technology and sustainable practices. I named this place Lumina, a city that truly is the future of urban living. 

As you approach Lumina, the first thing you’ll notice is its skyline. Towering skyscrapers built with sleek, eco-friendly materials dot the horizon. These buildings aren’t just for the aesthetic—they’re designed with sustainability in mind. The rooftops are filled with greenery, and solar panels glisten in the sunlight, gathering energy to power the city. 

If you walk a bit further, you’ll see buildings with smart glass that adjusts its tint based on the intensity of the sunlight, keeping the interior cool without needing to blast the air conditioning. The off-site construction of these structures allows for easy updates, making sure that they stay modern and up-to-date without needing to rebuild it completely. 

In Lumina, technology effortlessly blends into everyday life, making everything more convenient and efficient. The city is equipped with a strong public Wi-Fi network, making sure you’re always connected, whether you’re at home, in the park, or on the move. 

Public transportation in Lumina is simply a dream come true. Autonomous electric buses glide through the street, communicating directly with smart traffic lights to minimize overcrowding on the road. These buses are always on time, and you can even call one with a tap on your smartphone. At home, you can count on voice-activated assistants to manage everything from lighting to security, while drones handle your grocery deliveries, providing you with all your essentials and making sure you never run out.  

Green spaces are plentiful in Lumina, providing some fresh air in the urban landscape. Urban farms and gardens are scattered throughout the city, contributing to local food production and reducing the need for long distance transportation of goods. 

You can observe the city’s commitment to sustainability in its recycling programs and use of renewable energy. Solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems work together to power Lumina, making it a hotspot of environmentally friendly living. Water conservation systems ensure that every drop is used wisely, enabling residents to live sustainably.  

Education in Lumina is designed to prepare students for the future. Schools are equipped with modern technology, and the curricula emphasize the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, care for the environment, and essential life skills. Virtual reality classrooms and AI tutors for extra support ensure that every student has a personalized learning experience. Lifelong learning is encouraged, with community centers offering courses and workshops so that adults can continue to learn new skills. 

However, Lumina isn't just about technology and sustainability—it is also a hub of culture and community. Digital art installations turn public spaces into interactive galleries, and museums and theaters offer experiences that merge the physical and virtual world. Festivals and gatherings that celebrate innovations and the environment bring people together, creating a sense of unity and a shared purpose. 

Community engagement is very important in Lumina. Co-working spaces and community centers are always busy, with spots to work collaboratively and connect with others. Public forums allow residents to take part in decision-making, taking care to  include their considerations in every matter.

Getting around Lumina can be both easy and enjoyable. The city has a range of transportation options that meet every need, whether you prefer electric bikes and efficient public transport, or pedestrian-friendly streets that are perfect for a leisurely walk. Tourists and locals alike can explore everything from vibrant tech hubs to eco-resorts and charming historical districts that merge the old with the new. 

Lumina is more than just a city—it's a glimpse into what our future could be. With its innovative technology, sustainable practices, lively culture, and tight-knit community, it paints a picture of a world where everything just clicks together.

Alia Bhatt's Met Gala Moment: A Timeless Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

As a girl of Indian origin born in the United States, my three years at a boarding school in India offered me an immersive experience in my culture, cultivating a deep appreciation for Indian traditions. Drawing from these personal experiences, I explore the inspiration and pride that fashion choices like Alia Bhatt's iconic Met Gala saree can evoke for those who share similar cultural backgrounds.

“There’s nothing more timeless than a saree,” says Alia Bhatt, referencing her stunning designer saree at this year’s Met Gala. This traditional Indian garment, often worn at weddings, festivals, and significant cultural events, was given a unique twist for the occasion. The annual fundraising event, formally known as the Costume Institute Benefit, is held for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in Manhattan and is one of the most prestigious nights in fashion. The gala is known for its elaborate themes and bold fashion statements, making Alia’s choice to wear a saree a powerful representation of her Indian heritage and a unique interpretation of the evening’s dress code: “The Garden of Time.” 

The eye-catching saree, designed by renowned Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, showcases the work of 163 artisans, who dedicated 1,905 man-hours into its creation. Featuring intricate hand embroidery with silk floss, semi-precious stones, glass beads, alongside floral patterns reminiscent of a garden in bloom, it radiated elegance and became a standout presence.  In her brief interview with Vogue at the event, Alia shared how a saree aligns with the dress code: “...when I thought of the dress code, [and] got enough time, I felt like it needed something timeless, and there’s nothing more timeless than a saree.” Alia's choice was indeed exceptional, as she was the only guest wearing a saree.

Alia’s decision to wear a saree reveals her strong connection to her Indian heritage and roots. By wearing a traditional garment, she highlights India’s rich textile history, bringing her culture to the global stage. In Alia’s Last Looks video with Vogue, her stylist, Anaita Shroff Adajania, explained the inspiration behind her attire, stating, “We did a lot of research on archival portraits of Parsi nobility, [which had] beautiful Indians wearing delicate pastel sarees.” This insight shows the fusion of traditional and historical fashion  with a modern touch. 

The impact of Alia’s saree on both the fashion community and the public was significant.  According to influencer marketing platform Lefty, Alia topped the visibility chart at the Met Gala, surpassing the likes of attendees such as Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, Kim Kardashian, and Doja Cat. She has also been ranked as one of the 21 Best Dressed Stars according to People magazine, acknowledging the bold, innovative blend of traditional and contemporary fashion. 

As an Indian girl living in the United States, I sometimes struggle with cultural identity, especially when it comes to clothing. My three-year experience at a boarding school in India made for a deeper immersion into my culture, cultivating a sense of appreciation for its richness and diversity. Alia’s selection of a traditional saree at such a prestigious event is incredibly inspiring, serving as a reminder of the beauty and significance of our cultural heritage. Her decision fills me with pride as she confidently showcases our rich traditions on a global stage, allowing the world to appreciate the nuances of Indian fashion. It’s empowering to see Alia celebrate our roots while making a bold statement in the fashion world, inspiring others like me to embrace our cultural identities with confidence. 

Alia Bhatt’s choice to wear a traditional Indian saree at the Met Gala may inspire future trends in fashion, encouraging designers to embrace the fusion of traditional and modern elements. This decision underscores the potential for more cultural representation at prestigious events, motivating others to celebrate their roots as well. Such moments have the power to cultivate a deeper appreciation of global fashion and the traditions behind iconic garments such as the saree.

Hawaii: The spirit of aloha.

I recently visited Hawaii, and I wanted to share my experiences with you all, from the sandy beaches and massive volcanoes to the vibrant city life.

The feel of the salty wind blowing through my hair, the sand between my toes, the vibrant and unique cities, the volcanoes—all were once mere dreams of Hawaii for me. Now, as someone who lives in the US, it felt almost wrong to have never set foot in this unique state. Since the pandemic began, my travel plans have been on hold, and balancing my studies in India with trips back to the US made travel challenging.  Now that I’ve returned to the US, the chance to explore Hawaii myself finally arrived. 

The journey began with a five-and-a half-hour flight to Honolulu, Oahu, that seemed to stretch on forever. Free airplane WiFi made the journey bearable. Upon landing, the thrill of being in Hawaii washed over me. After settling in, our first stop was the lively Waikiki Beach Walk, conveniently located right near where we were staying. The ambience, as well as its wide array of shops and live entertainment, immediately captivated me.

On our first day, we set off for the beach, as one naturally does upon arriving in Hawaii. Along the drive, we paused at several scenic points to take in the breathtaking views. Once at the beach, we basked in the sun and walked along the shore for a while before heading off to lunch. Although finding vegetarian options was a bit challenging, we eventually found a place that met our preferences. After lunch, we returned to our accommodation to cool off from the hot sun. Rested and refreshed, we returned to the Waikiki Beach Walk to enjoy the sunset and further explore the area.

Diamond Head, a famous volcanic landmark, invited us for an early morning hike. The trail, though slightly difficult, rewarded our efforts with stunning panoramic views of Waikiki Beach and the city of Honolulu. As the sun rose, casting its golden hues across the sky, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of it all. The tranquil atmosphere atop the volcano made our early morning adventure truly unforgettable. 

Following our hike at Diamond Head, we continued our exploration. After our previous beach outing, we spent the rest of the morning soaking up the sun at a different stretch of coastline. However, this beach offered more than just sand and water; it had a variety of tropical birds, and even a hen crossing the road with her young ones (yes, a chicken does cross the road to get to the other side). After a lunch at another hard-to-find vegetarian spot, we switched gears and visited the Ala Moana Center, the world’s largest open-air mall. We spent a couple of hours exploring its vast array of shops, boutiques, and attractions. With so much to see, we couldn’t cover it all in one go, but we still enjoyed its many offerings. 

Our time in Oahu concluded on a high note, leading us to our next destination: Big Island. The following morning, we boarded a flight that started its descent just ten minutes after take-off — it was incredibly short– and we arrived in Kona, Big Island. The first thing I noticed was its open air airport, which was unlike any I’ve ever seen before. Despite its awe-inducing appearance, it did leave me to wonder how it would fare in the rain.

Our accommodation in Kona, Big Island, offered a stunning, unobstructed ocean view, making me feel as if I was in a Hawaiian dreamscape. The rest of the day was spent indoors, meticulously planning the next day’s adventures, which promised to be the most exciting yet. 

First on the list was the Punalu’u Black Sands Beach, which lives up to its name with its distinctive black sand formed by volcanic materials and lava fragments. The sight was mesmerizing, and I even glimpsed a few rare hawksbill sea turtles, leaving me in awe. The island seemed to hold countless mysteries at every turn, and I was eager to discover what else awaited.

Continuing our adventure, we visited the Volcanoes National Park in Hilo, filled with its own plethora of attractions. Steam poured out of crevices in the rocks, filling the air with a sultry feel and the scent of ash. Bright yellow spots of sulfur dotted the area, inviting new vegetation. Despite the gentle drizzle, we eagerly explored the lava tubes, formed when the surface of a lava flow cools and solidifies. The entrance was enveloped in greenery, and the inside was illuminated by a soft yellow glow. The park offered a variety of wonders, but our journey continued to Akaka Falls, a massive 442-feet waterfall that nearly took my breath away. The fall is so big I couldn’t even see the bottom, no matter how hard I tried. 

That evening we were able to attend a luau, a traditional and cultural dance show. Under the beautiful night sky, we enjoyed the rhythmic beats of traditional Hawaiian music and the hula dances that went with it, captivated by the dancers’ vibrant costumes. Torches flickered, casting a warm glow as we watched the festivities, experiencing the true spirit of aloha in every moment. 

The next day took a historical and spiritual turn with a visit to the Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Park, known for its rich cultural and sacred sites. This park, once a place of refuge for lawbreakers and warriors defeated in battle, offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian history and customs. The many pictures of the tiki statues I had seen online made me especially excited to visit this park and get a taste of Hawaiian culture. However, the sun had other plans. The heat was simply unbearable, and we had to retreat after a while. 

Our last full day in Hawaii called for another beach, which happened to be our first one on Big Island. We settled for Kukio Beach, and I’ll be forever grateful we did. It was calm and quiet, with both sand and grass, gentle waves, and water showcasing a thousand different shades of blue. To top it all, the weather was perfect, creating an ideal way to end our stay in Hawaii. 

But of course, we couldn’t actually leave the islands before buying some of its exquisite chocolate. We went to authentic Hawaiian chocolate stores, one of which was part of a cacao and coffee plantation. The sight of the cacao fruit growing on the trees was fascinating, showcasing the natural source of these delectable treats. Hawaii, known for its locally grown cocoa, produces some of the finest chocolate in the world. From wine berry chocolate to macadamia nut chocolate, we picked up an array of delicacies to enjoy back home.  

The following morning was filled with last minute packing and a wild scramble to get to the airport. We had another five-and-a-half-hour long flight ahead, but this time I was prepared and luckily, there was free WiFi on this one too.

Returning home was a bittersweet experience. While I was glad to settle back into my regular routine, I couldn’t help but feel a hint of sadness at leaving behind Hawaii’s alluring culture and landscape. My time on the islands was an unforgettable adventure, filled with natural beauty and moments of awe, and I eagerly anticipate the day I can return to discover even more of it.