Amongst plenty of shopping (finally reactivated the shopping gene!), I managed to visit the Ghandi museum, at the site where he was assasinated in Delhi. It was timely to reflect on his vision for India, and the challenges the country faces today.
In planning to travel here, I think I underestimated both myself and India. There were moments when I wondered if I was crazy, and I know many shared the sentiment. To my surprise, it's been a joy to travel here, and forays to countries such as Bolivia and Egypt stood me in good stead in terms of minimizing any culture shock. Sure, it can be dusty and dirty, and it certainly isn't like home - but that's why you travel isn't it?
Travelling has been easy in a country where people are quick to help and many speak English. Warm smiles and genuine welcomes have been many, from the doorman at The Park on my first morning here to the chai-wallah on yesterday's train.
The colours that you seen in everyday life continue to captivate me, and the scents will linger in my mind - spices cooking in coconut oil, incense burning, morning smoke, marsala tea, cows... and yes, the occasional stench of urine. The land of contrasts!
I'm heading home now with a heart full of love for this crazy country and her people, thankful that I've travelled safe and well. Until next time, namaste!
Below: A couple of my favorite things - Mother Dairy (a BYO milk can milkbar), an Ambassador taxi, marsala dosa and a Hindu shrine. And the memorial marking Ghandi's last steps.
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