Hi! My name is Gitanjoli and I have recently completed an MSc in Conflict Studies from The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). I am originally from India and have a keen academic interest in looking at the affects of armed conflict on women and children with family histories of conflict, particularly in the Kashmir valley. In my free time, I can be found either travelling, reading, rock climbing, scuba diving, or training in calisthenics. I am usually up for anything fun!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I like the concept of helping each other out, and I really enjoy meeting new people and listening to their stories.

Interests

• education
• cooking
• politics
• political science
• food
• travelling
• adventure
• exploring
• calisthenics
• research
• conflict resolution
• rockclimbing
• people and their stories

Music, Movies, and Books

My go-to music genre is Jazz. I have MANY favourite movies and books so it is difficult to pick one, but as I type this I am watching 'Lord of The Rings: The Return of the King' so I'd go with that. Love love love Tolkien. Also, the book I am currently reading is called 'Malevolent Republic: A Short History of the New India' by K.S. Komireddi. This book examines the rise of the BJP and the impact of its rightwing Hindu Nationalist ideologies on India. I find this book particularly interesting because while it offers a blatant critique of our current Prime Miniter Narendra Modi, it also offers an unabashed critique of the Nehru-Gandhi 'Dynasty', which makes it readable even if one disagrees.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I spent a year working on ground zero in the frontier district of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir, India. This experience has been life-changing.

I also did the Everest Base Camp trek, which was again one of the most special moments that I'll cherish forever.

Teach, Learn, Share

I am good at Political Science studies, languages, and fitness-related things. I am always looking for opportunities to share my knowledge with new people and learn and unlearn in the process.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Along with a couch, I am happy to share the many interesting stories from my experiences in the field. I would also love to share the many facets of my culture and interests with my hosts and guests.

Countries I’ve Visited

England, Finland, France, Germany, India, Nepal, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Wales

Countries I’ve Lived In

India, Nepal, United Kingdom