By Samyak Jain, Class of 2024
In the soft glow of the bonfire atop Waghzai, he gently speared a marshmallow, fluffy and white, with a twig he had found near the log he was seated on, which was soon to be part of the crackling fire. As the serene melodies of “Follow the Sun” by Xavier Rudd floated through the air, he looked around at the circle of jubilant faces, their features illuminated by the flickering flames. This was more than a mere gathering; it was the heart of the Outdoor Education Services (OES) at MUWCI, a journey of unity, discovery, and profound connection with the untamed beauty of nature.
Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Western Ghats, MUWCI stands as a vibrant mosaic of cultures, home to students and educators from over 60 nationalities. In this rich tapestry of global diversity, OES emerges not merely as a club but as a familial enclave, where every newcomer is warmly embraced into a community bound by the shared thrill of adventure and an innate love for the wilderness.
The spirit of OES is vividly brought to life through a plethora of outdoor activities, each meticulously orchestrated to deepen the bond with the natural world and each other. Squads specializing in kayaking, cycling, and hiking ensure that each weekend is imbued with the spirit of exploration, transforming the lush landscapes into a canvas where lasting memories and friendships are beautifully painted.
Reflecting on his journey with OES, he fondly recalled the exhilaration of leading hikes to Internet Hill and the more challenging treks to Waghzai. Each expedition served as a lesson in leadership, camaraderie, and environmental stewardship, weaving a rich tapestry of experiences that resonated deeply with the ethos of MUWCI.
The descent for kayaking trips, a journey filled with anticipation and shared tales, and the arduous yet spirited return journey, highlighted the day’s adventures, fortifying the bonds within the OES family. These experiences, set against the stunning backdrop of the Ghats, transcended the physical challenges, fostering shared moments of joy, laughter, and reflection.
OES journeys, especially the overnight stays at Waghzai, offered a sanctuary from the academic routine, a place for introspective solitude under the starlit sky, and a space where the community could engage in meaningful dialogues, mirroring the diversity and unity of MUWCI’s ethos.
Among these adventures, the roles of the Triveni assistants—Hiraman, Dipali, and Kiran—were pivotal. Their support and guidance were like the steady rocks in a bubbling stream, always there to ensure the smooth flow of every expedition. Their smiles were a familiar comfort, their expertise a reliable backbone for the myriad of activities that defined OES.
From the invigorating dips in Devkund waterfall to the comforting warmth of chai and Wada Pav sponsored by Manishji and Raveenaji, each element of OES epitomised the unique blend of adventure and tranquility that defines MUWCI. These seemingly mundane moments became significant threads in the larger fabric of OES, crafting a narrative of peace, contentment, and belonging.
Witnessing these adventures, he saw how they transcended the conventional boundaries of a club, evolving into a journey of self-discovery, communal learning, and environmental appreciation. This journey, enriched by a myriad of personal and collective experiences, underscored the transformative power of OES, not merely as an aspect of MUWCI but as a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who partake in its adventures.
As the night deepened and the fire dwindled to embers, he realised with a heart full of warmth and eyes sparkling with memories, that OES was far more than an extracurricular activity. It was a pivotal chapter in the grand narrative of MUWCI, a testament to the transformative journey of learning, adventure, and community. In the nurturing embrace of OES, he discovered not just a club, but a family, a journey, and a home away from home, forever etched in the landscape of his heart, a cherished memory to be held dear in the years to come.