I was asked about the food, Indian food is one of my favorite cuisines but man is it salty here! I’m told it’s used as a preservative, & that high blood pressure is rampant. No wonder. I love salt but if it’s too much for me, it waaaaayyyyy over the top!
Why am I here? I’m asking myself that right now, no seriously, I am here as a guest teacher for an organization called The Danceworx, an interesting outfit with a multitude of dance studios & students throughout New Delhi & they just opened for business in Mumbai [Bombay]. They arrange for master teachers & choreographers to come from the world over to work with their young professional teacher/choreographer/dancers. I absolutely adore working with them, what a great group of artists! Their enthusiasm, passion, hunger, joy, & eagerness to learn is unrivaled & I feel privileged to work with them. And they are just plain ol’ fun! It is a treat to work with people who are appreciative of what is given.
This trip is showing/reminding me to be grateful for the things I take for granted. Like living in a country with freedoms, creature comforts, & where, though I have felt the lack of consideration for others sorely waning, I see it’s in great abundance in comparison. Oh gawd, I get stared at here worse than when I was in Hong Kong! From the time I leave the apartment I am followed with eyes & with such insolence! I told one man who was staring so hard I hoped his eyes would pop out that I was human. The women stare harder & with more hostility than the men, & it’s not like I’m running around here with a crop top & tight hip huggers! I knew it was a conservative country & I am dressing accordingly [but man it’s hot, Hot, HOT!!!!] I mean, folks walk toward me staring, they pass me staring, & then turn around to stare some more! It’s a bit wearying. Ok. It’s VERY wearying.
I feel like I’ve done nothing but bitch since the honeymoon was quickly over but I do remind myself of the positives & what this is showing me. But back to bitchin’-- this trip has been riddled with surprises, some nastier than others. Like not havin' a shower. Now granted, I see the benefits, washing out of a bucket saves water & soap. Ok, enough of that service announcement, I CAN'T WAIT TO GET HOME TO TAKE A SHOWER!!!!!
Welcome to India, Bird.
I' ve never had to use a bucket in lieu of a shower before. It's an interesting experience to say the least!
©Jacquie Bird
©Jacquie Bird