During our brief stint in Varanasi (approx. 16 hours), we were finally given the biggest room we've ever had, the nicest ,the hottest water and the most comfortable beds that we didn't even sleep in. Karma's a bitch. We made our way through the city of 3 million people and about 1 million cows (no word of a lie). The market places were hectic ( we were working off 4 hours sleep) and the alleys were filled with people going about their daily business. India was celebrating Independence Day and apparently the car dealers across from the hotel were really excited as they blared music that made it sound like the entire street was taking part in the festivities, where as two guys sat on plastic chairs out front.
We visited the site where Buddha spoke his first sermon, an archaeological museum and the Mother India Temple. The crowning achievement, and what made the day of dizzying crowds and noise worthwhile was that trip out on the Ganges itself.
Escaping onto the river brought a calm to the hectic way of life. The importance of the river in the lives of the people who frequent it was overwhelming. On each of the ghats people perform different acts/rituals that go along with the cycle of life and death...bathing, swimming, doing laundry, bathing the water buffalo and cremating the dead who have arrived at its shores.
We ended the ride with a downpour that would usher us into the riverbank. Although the umbrellas came out, they did not seem to make a difference. We found our way to shore, only to find that another element had been added to the flow of traffic...this being flooded streets with ankle deep water.
As we tie up loose end here in Delhi we prepare to pack our bags....um yeah...pack/stuff/buy extra luggage in preparation for our return home. As the clothes dry on the make shift line in our hotel room, we have soaked through another set and await our trip home. Have we mentioned how much we love jet lag? Huge fans.
Let the games begin!
See you all in Central standard time!
Nadia and Andrea
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Dear Nadia and Andrea,
I want to thank you for your contributions to the U of M India Blog. While I logged on to read Cari's, I found all of the writings informative, moving, and authentic. You all celebrated your visit to India with real emotions and your stories were sensitive to the culture, people and animals of India.
Your blogs gave me an opportunity to visit with you and share your joy and heartaches.
Thank so much and best of luck in your teaching careers. Your fortunate students will benefit from you summer in India.
Gwen
(Cari's mom -- a teacher and student for many years.)
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