Ganesha Fever

The past few days I've noticed a feverish mood in the local markets as I walk along, with dozens of stands and shops selling little elephants.  Some are in bright colors, while others are made of clay. All come in a variety of sizes, from 10" or so  to 25 feet high.  And all this frenzy is just a hint of what's to come I'm told.  

NS Ramaswamy

I was at the local cafe reading the Times of India today, well, like I do everyday, and came across an interesting article about a guy you've likely -- like me -- never heard of, who passed away recently.

Have You Heard of Piadina?

I thought there was a huge culture shock when I first got to India, yet I'm now finding that a lot of what's different is also the same.

A Joyful Start

Everyday I pass this little girl on the street; her mom and grandmother iron clothes while she sits atop the table.  She always sees me and says "hi,hi,hi" and then after a short chat as I leave she follows with "bye,bye,bye."  She is too cute and bubbling with personality.  It fulfills my daily moment of joy.

Garbage City

In an on-going, and too slow recovery, the commissioner of the BBMP (the city agency that oversees city services) got the boot from his position by the state-level government today as the garbage crisis continues. 

Getting Settled

Mysore Palace

I've really been quite lazy since arriving, but made the first moves to change that dynamic today

Indian Oddities

Every place you go you'll notice little oddities that strike you as new and strange.  India is no exception.