Gateway to a simple life…

Gurnaaz Kaur

Punjabi actress Surilie Gautam was shooting for a film when the lockdown was imposed. Although she misses the usual busy life and her work, this time has given her a chance to look inward. Learning new cuisines, yoga and meditation are keeping her busy…

How have you spent your time during the lockdown?

Whatever has happened, it is very unfortunate. This is a very tragic situation that we are all going through on a global level. It has shaken the entire world but I feel this lockdown is a chance to introspect; to see life closely. I’ve done that and also learnt to connect with nature. It has been an enriching time since I spent it knowing about my culture, giving more time and effort to my relationships. A lot of reality check has happened too.

The person you wish to spend

this time with?

I am here with my parents and they are without a doubt the ones I want to be with but my sister Yami is in Mumbai alone, so it’s a very tough time for all of us as a family. We’ve been missing each other a lot. There’s this constant tension and sadness to be away in such a hard time. I wish we could be together under one roof. I miss her a lot. When you are all together, there is this strength to go through anything and everything.

Highlight of this low time.

It has been the phase where one is actually getting to spend quality time with family. I’ve learnt so many things from my mother. Being from Himachal, I’ve learnt the traditional cuisines of the region from her. We try a new dish every day and getting to spend time in the kitchen with mom is a beautiful feeling.

Ways to keep busy at home.

I make sure to do yoga and meditation every day. It keeps me fit and mentally healthy. We all need it more than ever. Meditation also helps me stay positive and keep calm. Since work stopped suddenly and so much has come under restriction, there is this uncertainty in life; no one knows what’s next and mind tends to go haywire, therefore I feel everyone should meditate.

Realisations and more…

Before coronavirus struck us, our lives were so busy. I can say that for myself and at least everyone I know. Work, late hours, running around all the time for one or the other goal, no time for family. Now, suddenly nature tells you stop and think. Most importantly, value all the beings on this planet. We humans have done a lot of destruction and this time indicates change. We should take responsibility of our choices and actions.

Life post lockdown will be…

There will be a lot of changes. For one, people will become more responsible, they will understand each other and this life more closely. Respecting nature, focusing on stability and mental peace will become top priorities. see, a lot people have become health conscious than wealth conscious.

Message for Punjab

Stay home, stay safe and abide by the guidelines of the government. The number of positive cases has see a steep rise, we need to work together for the betterment of human life and that will come by following the rules, valuing the diversity on mother earth and living a simple life. I pray everything gets back to normal and that people are in good health and good spirit.