Let’s take a stroll down the memory lane of 2023, a year that was a beautiful mosaic of personal and professional moments. This year will forever be etched in my memory as the time when I meticulously crafted and submitted the culmination of my years of research – my PhD thesis.  

Exploring Delhi during weekends revealed its historical charm, especially in the vibrant months of January and February. Here are some photographs of such a soul-soothing experience.

The arrival of parents in early February became an interplay of time and memory. A special highlight was guiding my parents through the illustrious Rashtrapati Bhavan and Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya. The twinkle in their eyes was my greatest reward.

Oh, and there’s a quirky video edited by Siddhu capturing the swag of the visit to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. You can check it out here.

A journey back home for Aayu’s Mundan ceremony invoked not just familial bonds but a profound connection to roots. Holding Ruhi and Aayu, I embraced a heartwarming joy filled with laughter.

March brought Uncle Ji and Goli when we visited India Gate, a remarkable structure honouring the braves of the country.

Holi in AIIMS is more than a festival; where it embodies diverse hues of colours beyond academic pursuits. The Holi bash hosted by the director indeed represents this notion.

In the entrepreneurial venture of Rakesh Bhaiya with his Amul Booth, a chapter unfolded on March 30, 2023. Congratulations bhaiya.

April ushered into the second trip to South Korea, not just a geographical shift but a cultural also. It offers limited food preferences but the bags were ready.

The cherished destination of Jeju Island in April was breathtakingly beautiful. The enchanting island, a bustling city square, and its hidden treasures could steal any mortal heart with its attraction. This time we visited our long-cherished destination of Jeju Island.

This place is heavenly and yet not so popular in our part of the world.  Just to provide a context, this is the view of a roadside in a bustling city square. Beautiful. Isn’t it?

May embraced celebrations as Paddy Bhai embarked on a new journey. Here is us playing Ludo with the groom hours before his marriage. Well, freedom is a luxury and the guy spent his freedom by playing Ludo.

Family visited for a short pilgrimage to Mathura and Vrindavan brought cultural richness, despite the scorching summers. A sunny June day at the Taj Mahal – beautiful picture on a not-so-beautiful sunny June day.

July unfolded the pages of a Japanese chapter, an EMBL-sponsored course revealing cultural richness.

Amidst fellow coursemates, the metaphorical dance of diverse perspectives emerged.

Japan, advanced in Science and Technology, became a symbol of innovation. The robot performing cell culture work echoes that progress necessitates a blend of the present and the future.

Among the places we visited, Hiroshima stood as a testament to human resilience, an ode to the indomitable spirit rising from the ashes.

On return, Subhradip sir hosted lunch adding a lovely personal touch – a reminder of the camaraderie that sustains amidst academic endeavours.

August unfolded with the celebration of Rakshabandhan, a festival woven with threads of familial ties. It was overwhelming to have the company of family and friends on that occasion.

September began with the much-anticipated visit by Lakshmi. While we were engrossed in our thesis writing, it offered moments of relaxation. We had our little chit-chat and usual discussions over exchanging our gadgets. Next time, I will not spare you, Lakshmi.

September’s highlight was Sakshi submitting her thesis – reflecting the culmination of a five-year journey. The smile on her face truly encapsulates the reward of perseverance and dedication. Congratulations!

The thesis submission calls for a celebration.

Among many, this is my favourite. Enjoying recliner view of “The Vaccine War” movie and a great lunch.

Now that we are talking about food, here is a photograph of me drooling at food.

October ushered in an intensive thesis writing phase. Day in, day out – the writing marathon mirrored life’s relentless pursuit of goals.

Amidst all the ecstasies, here is something worth drooling at – the sight of my thesis getting printed. An academic conquest captured not just in visuals but in emotions. November brought this much-awaited moment.

A photograph with the bosses – not just a frame but a tableau of mentorship.

A photograph with friends – a mosaic of camaraderie and shared pursuits.

Each photograph holds a lesson – mentors and friends, intertwined, shape the narrative of growth.

Early December marked a trip to the USA, where a warm welcome was extended by Dr. Dx. in Manhattan. Here is a photograph of two of us wandering in Central Park – a moment beyond the scientific life, embracing the simplicity of human connections. Thank you Babu bhai for being a great host in New York.

The conference in Texas was a premier forum for the latest advancements in breast cancer research and treatment. I was proud to present my work to an audience of International fame. Here is me posing with my poster.

Presenting our work at @SABCSSanAntonio. Come say hi. 🧬 👋 pic.twitter.com/pRWRKLiF9u

— Tryambak Srivastava (@imtryam) December 6, 2023

Deep’s hospitality in the USA reflects a testament to the strength of our relationships. A thank you will not be enough for his warm reception and care all these days.

His lip-smacking Indian cuisine mirrored the essence of home, transcending geographical distances.

A cinematic picture of New York emerged, not just a skyline but a visual narrative of dreams woven into the cityscape.

Upon my return, I was blessed by Prof. Umesh sir who is a source of inspiration to me. Thank you, sir.

Thank you @imtryam
Wish you the best of everything you aspire to achieve in the new year. The doctoral degree is due but wish that you go beyond and set your self on for new chapter of your personal and professional life. Best pic.twitter.com/SERWYQl12s

— Umesh Yadav (@i_UCSY) January 1, 2024

Finally, a visit home in December became a pilgrimage to family warmth. A subtle missing of the homecooked food echoes – amidst achievements, the heart yearns for the simplicity of familial love.

So here’s to 2023, a year that painted the canvas of my life with vibrant hues of growth, achievement, and beautiful moments. Bring it on, 2024!

Ready for more adventures and stories.