In the clamoring roads of Pune, where custom and innovation exist together in a fragile equilibrium, seeing a young lady catching a second with her cell phone is not really uncommon. in a city that brims with character, each selfie tells a unique story—one that reflects not just the individual behind the lens, but the vibrant backdrop of Pune itself.
As she strolls past the ancient walls of Shaniwar Wada, a fortress steeped in Maratha history, she feels a connection to the city’s rich past. It’s a place she’s visited many times, yet the allure of its grand architecture never fails to captivate her. Today, she decides to capture this connection in a selfie, framing herself against the imposing gates that have withstood the test of time.
For Shreya, like many of her peers, a selfie is more than just a photograph. It’s a moment frozen in time—a way to capture the mood, the surroundings, and a piece of herself. As she positions her phone, tilts her head slightly, and flashes a smile, she’s not just taking a picture; she’s creating a memory. The sunlight catches her face just right, casting a warm glow that complements the ancient stone behind her. In this snapshot, she’s not just a girl taking a selfie—she’s a modern-day reflection of Pune, a city that embraces its history while moving forward with the times.
The streets around her buzz with activity. The smell of street food permeates the air as vendors sell their wares, and the honking of rickshaws blends with the conversation of bystanders.
But in that brief moment, as Shreya reviews her selfie, she feels a sense of calm amidst the chaos. This is her city, with all its quirks and charms, and through the lens of her smartphone, she’s managed to capture a piece of its essence.
Beyond the historical landmarks, Pune is a city of contrasts. From the youthful energy of Fergusson College Road, where students gather in cafes to debate and dream, to the serene greenery of the Osho International Meditation Resort, where visitors seek peace and introspection, Pune offers a diverse landscape for any selfie enthusiast. For Shreya, her selfies often reflect her moods and experiences—a quiet moment by the Mula-Mutha River, a lively group shot with friends at a festival, or a solo portrait during a sunset hike up Parvati Hill.
Each selfie is a chapter in her life story, told through the lens of her phone. They are small, personal expressions of her journey, set against the dynamic backdrop of a city that is constantly evolving. These moments are both deeply personal and a part of a larger, shared narrative in the digital age, where images can be shared instantly. Shreya’s selfies, like those of many young people today, are a way to connect with the world, to share her experiences, and to celebrate the life she’s building in this bustling city.
As she walks away from Shaniwar Wada, phone in hand, Shreya uploads her selfie to Instagram, adding a caption that reflects her thoughts in that moment. The likes and comments begin to roll in, but for her, the real value of the photo lies in the memory it holds. In the end, a selfie may be just a simple act of capturing one’s image, but for Shreya, it’s also a way to document her journey through life. It’s a way to connect with her city, her friends, and herself. And in a place as vibrant and diverse as Pune, each selfie is a reminder of the many layers that make up the story of a girl and her city, captured one snapshot at a time.