Album 17
(10 September to 19 October 1998)
We went to Simla (or Shimla), the former summer capital of the Raj (actually
occupied for more than half of the year because it was so similar to England)
and saw where my father was born and grew up with his family.
His schools were such the same - except for the students' complexion.
There are large Tibetan exile communities making a living in carpets.
(this mandala carpet was special order and about $6,000)
Of course, there were reminders of the ever-present
Indian male - who are children far into their "adult" years.
We went to Nepal - a relaxed place,
with precocious children,
and rich beggars.
There are the sadhus like Milk Baba who has only drunk milk for 12 years
and the shrines which give lessons for procreation
as well as general faith.
The Nepalis love their children and it is a happy place.
Being "poor" doesn't mean miserable - families are close.
Of course, there is a clash in styles when the rich tourists show up,
but the spirit remains pure for many Nepalis.
We went for a trek to the Anapurna Sanctuary
and then left, during the festival of Tihar.
Nepal is wonderful. we'll be back. In the meantime, we're off to India
(Just 9 to go!)
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