I’m was just sitting inside eating dinner as the maid watched me, unable to eat until I finish. I could see my “Aunty” or the woman who is hosting me outside from the window. It is a full moon tonight so she is outside praying from 8pm to 10pm. Dinner was awkward without her but I texted my friend about a 3am cab ride to the train station that is happening in the morning. I am going to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan in the morning.
Anyway, this is my first blog post from Delhi and I wanted to find a way to convey all the emotions I’ve had since I arrived almost 3 weeks ago, but there are just too many things to write about. It is a beautiful, dirty, chaotic, crowded, historic and yet modern metropolitan city with a mix of conservative Indian tradition and western-styled liberalism. In India, Delhi specifically, there is so much to take in; between colorful bazaars, cows walking the highway, angry rickshaw drivers that overcharge you, young homeless children begging for food, and a confusing mix of wildlife and metropolis, I can’t begin to accurately describe the environment. You really can find anything here, including cute vegan-friendly wifi cafes in Hauz Khas Village/Market. This is the spot where I feel most comfortable and “homey” while I study.
Today is also Rakhi, a holiday celebrating brothers as protectors of sisters. On this day, siblings get together and exchange gifts. Sisters give brothers a bracelet tied with a red string that has decorations on it, and brothers give their sisters sweets and presents. As an only child wanting to celebrate the holiday, I found another only child in my abroad program, Jeremy, to be my Rakhi brother.
Pictures are to come, including one from the Taj Mahal with my friend Marnie and a guy who asked to join our photo. The awkwardness is still an ongoing joke between us.
Location: Delhi, India
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Thanks Allison! Yes, My host family is amazing:)
Angeline, we have these 3 wheeled motor vehicles called rickshaws that were probably made in hell. Everyone in Delhi can tell you their rickshaw nightmare story. They make a ton of noise, go pretty slowly and breakdown quite often. They are open on all ends and as you drive (well you sit behind the driver in the back), dust blows in your face from the street. It’s pretty unpleasant. On the bright side, there is a metro. Not every place in Delhi is accessible by metro but most markets and popular tourist attractions are. They are usually clean, often a bit crowded, but nicely air conditioned. They are also very affordable, about 15 rupees or 30 cents per destination.
Now, I’m wondering about the transportation system there. Do you have to drive everywhere there?
After reading this, I immediately googled more about the city. You are so right; it’s complex environment seems one-of-a-kind (and I think you did a great job describing it). Also, I think staying with a host family is one of the most wonderful ways to take in a new place–good for you. That holiday is a very interesting concept as well, definitely traditional male/female roles. Can’t wait to read your future blogs!