Nikita's Journey
Step into the serene world of Alila Fort Bishangarh, perched high above the expansive Rajasthani plains, surrounded by ancient sandstone hills and whispers of centuries-old silence. Explore the moments that moved Nikita personally—the play of morning light in hidden corners, the long shadows stretching across weathered stone, and the gentle language of wind and time—shaped her reflections and inspired her poetry.
Poet’s Overarching Property and Destination Experience
Nikita’s journey at Alila Fort Bishangarh led her to a place where the land speaks through its stillness. Surrounded by sandstone hills and the vast Rajasthani plains, she found herself immersed in a world that invited inward reflection and a deeper connection to the landscape’s enduring beauty.
Immersion in the Culture and Wonder of Rajasthan
Within the fort’s ancient walls, rich with fragrance and rhythms of traditional music, Nikita found herself watching peacocks move across the scene in gauzy morning light, embraced by the sensory tapestry of the village and its people.
Jewelry Makers
Drawn into a world where craftsmanship tells the story of the land, Nikita first connected with local jewelry artisans. She saw firsthand how each piece holds not just beauty but history—woven into the fabric of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.
Carpet Weavers
Nikita then experienced the delicate art of carpet weaving, where each thread is carefully placed to preserve a tradition passed down through generations. In the hands of the weaver, stories are literally sewn into the fabric, connecting the past with the present.
Potters
Among local potters, Nikita saw how the earth shapes more than just vessels. Each piece is a reflection of the culture, patience, and dedication of the artisan—a timeless process that captures the spirit of Rajasthan.
Village Cooking Experience with Daya
In Rajasthan, Nikita joined Daya for a culinary experience that immersed her in the land’s flavors and traditions. From farm-to-table meals to cooking with local ingredients, this Moment offers a taste of the region’s vibrant culture, where food connects people and preserves stories.
Poetry Experience with Dr. Wamiq Saifi
Alongside Dr. Wamiq Saifi, Nikita’s journey reached new depths. His verses bring each location to life, blending the stories of warriors and traditions with the history of the destination itself.
The Poet’s Writing Experience
At Alila Fort Bishangarh, Nikita’s experience with the environment and the community sparked a transformation in her poetry. Each Moment deepened her creative vision, pushing her to explore new perspectives and refine her craft.
In Her Own Words
Poetry of Our World begins with a glimpse into Nikita’s journey, but the full depth lies within the poem itself. Inspired by the places she visited and the quiet moments in between, Nikita’s words invite you to reflect on the things that move us all.
Experience the full poem at your own pace, or listen as Nikita's voice guides you.
If I told you the secret of the world, would you listen?
First, you must know that you have always needed this.
A moment of escape into the other version of yourself,
the one who has been calling to you,
across pale snowy mountains, emerald green hills,
across sapphire blue oceans and undiscovered lakes.
Then, make the decision, take a moment to give in.
Embrace the hand of adventure you are offering yourself.
Forget all schedules, disregard all responsibilities.
Think instead only of possibility.
Think instead of the world as your fellow traveller.
Embrace the road not taken that she is showing you.
Ask nature to be your guide.
Find a secret fort to get lost in.
Tell the green parakeet outside your window
that you’ve always wanted to meet him.
Take a forgotten train that promises a view
and find the hidden treasure at the other end.
Embrace the village that welcomes you with open arms,
learn vibrant, beautiful words different from your own.
Eat a meal made by loving hands of a woman
who reminds you of your own mother.
Learn the balance of spice and herb,
the patience of water turning to steam,
of fire crafting food for you to eat.
Put your feet in the desert sand,
Still warm from the setting sun.
Fall in love with the storm as it dances
on your borrowed rooftop.
Remind yourself it was your courage
that gave you all of these gifts.
Name all of what you have experienced sacred.
Learn to make beautiful things with your hands.
Translate the wind’s melody onto the pages of your heart.
Witness the cadence of the world’s song and all it has to offer you
and when you hear the peacock’s call,
an invitation to hear even more – don’t hesitate.
Pack your bags again, and just give in.
Beyond Words: One on One with Nikita Gill
In this exclusive conversation, Nikita sits down with the Alila team to share her journey as a poet, the inspirations behind her work, and how her experiences at Alila shaped her verse.
Nikita’s Moment
Alila Moments are journeys crafted to awaken your senses and connect you deeply to the spirit of a place. They invite you to move beyond observation and become part of the story unfolding around you.
During her stay at Alila Fort Bishangarh, Nikita worked alongside the property to create a Moment that mirrors her poetic journey—a chance for guests to slow down, absorb the landscape’s quiet beauty, and experience firsthand the rhythms and stories that inspired her verse.
Land of a Thousand Verses: A Poetic Journey Through Time
By NIKITA GILL
Journeys That Awaken the Senses
Every Alila Moment is an opportunity to discover something meaningful. Whether it’s through spiritual reflection, artistic expression, or connection to the land, these Moments are crafted to resonate deeply and move you forward on your journey.
One World, Many Journeys
Our story unfolds through four distinct poems—two by Nikita, and one each from Yrsa Daley-Ward and Lang Leav. Each poet was invited to experience Alila in their own way and respond with words that capture the spirit of their journey.
Explore these voices, and discover the many ways Alila inspires reflection, connection, and wonder.
POETRY OF PLACE
By WRITTEN BY YRSA DALEY-WARD
POETRY OF PEOPLE
By WRITTEN BY LANG LEAV
POETRY OF WONDER
By WRITTEN BY NIKITA GILL
What World Awaits You?
Across continents and cultures, Alila destinations invite you to see the world differently—and feel more deeply as you move through it.
