“Jack of all trades, master of none.”
For the longest time, this phrase felt like a label stamped on me—a reminder of all the things I never stuck with, all the skills I started but didn’t master. It always left me feeling small, like I was somehow falling short of what I was “supposed” to be. But then, one day, I stumbled upon the full version of the quote:
“Jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than master of one.”
And just like that, everything shifted. It felt like permission to stop apologizing for the way I’m wired—to finally embrace my endless curiosity. I’m someone who gets deeply, joyfully immersed in something for a season, then moves on when it’s time. My curiosity doesn’t always demand permanence, and that’s okay.
This is what New Roads, New Skills is all about. It’s my love letter to the many roads I’ve walked, the roles I’ve tried on, and the lives I’ve imagined for myself. It’s about leaning into my curiosity, whether it lasts a weekend, a year, or a lifetime.
The Story of Piqued Pilgrim
This journey didn’t start today. It’s been years in the making. My brand, Piqued Pilgrim, grew out of my deep desire to live as many lives as I can in one lifetime—not in a literal sense, but through exploration, learning, and storytelling.
I’ve always felt like a pilgrim of sorts, wandering from one passion to another, letting each experience add a layer to who I am. Whether it’s practising a new art form, cooking a traditional dish, or simply pausing to learn a craft, each curiosity is a way to live a new life—however briefly.
Piqued Pilgrim is my reminder to keep exploring, to let curiosity lead the way, and to honour the journey, even if I never master the destination.
Why This Journey Matters to Me
Somewhere along the way, I realized I didn’t have to choose between my curiosities. I don’t need to be defined by one skill or passion. In fact, the beauty lies in the in-between spaces—the moments where you’re learning something new, humbling yourself, and opening up to the world in fresh ways.
Through this journey, I want to:
- Celebrate the joy of being a beginner again.
- Explore skills and traditions rooted in heritage and history.
- Live and learn without the pressure of being “the best.”
For me, this isn’t just about acquiring skills. It’s about discovering what each practice teaches me—about patience, resilience, creativity, and connection.
What to Expect From This Series
This blog series will follow me as I dive into new skills and practices, each one opening a window into a different world. From ancient martial arts to creative crafts and cultural traditions, every skill becomes a chapter in this ongoing journey.
Chapter 1: Kalaripayattu in Kerala
The journey has begun with Kalaripayattu, one of the world’s oldest martial arts. It’s not just a physical discipline—it’s a practice of balance, focus, and strength that connects the body and mind. I went there for one month and ended up staying and learning it for three months! It has been an incredible experience, to say the least.
Blogs:
- A Journey into Kalaripayattu at a Gurukul in Kerala
- A Peek Into the Gurukulam Way of Life
- Three Months of Kalari: A Journey of Movement and Mindset
Chapter 2: Art and Storytelling in Bir
A rather disorganised chapter this one, but isn’t that how art is?
Coming Up Next
From movement to mindfulness, crafts to cuisine, each chapter will tell the story of a skill I’m learning and the lessons it brings with it. Whether I stick with it or move on, the joy is in the trying.
So here’s to living many lives through curiosity, letting go of the pressure to be a “master,” and finding joy in the pursuit itself. Whether you’re a lifelong learner like me or someone looking to try something new, I hope this journey inspires you to embrace your own path—whatever that may look like.
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