India: Country of Contradictions
Certain locations resonate on a different level. India is one such place - a country of extremes. A country that knows that it makes it special, and embraces it. My time in India touched upon only a small segment of this larger-than-life sub-continent, and left me wanting more.
Delhi
Frenetic. The one word which sums up Delhi. From the quiet gated community of my temporary home, to the narrow streets of Old Delhi, there is simply energy vibrating every cell of the city.
Vrindavan
A home to some of the most devout Hare Krishna, Vrindavan showcases tradition - and monkeys. Lots and lots of monkeys. Touring the town with our very own Krishna brought understanding and appreciation to Vrindavan’s humble platitudes.
Agra
We all have seen photos and videos of Agra’s notable Taj Mahal, and it goes without saying that it is a sight worth seeing. Just outside it’s walls exists a similar energy to that of Delhi. The real surprise came by way of the Agra Fort - a place which deserves more publicity than it gets - and that’s not just for its unparalleled view of the Taj.
Rajdhani Express
The Darjeeling Limited may set some high expectations for an overnight Indian train journey, but even without the eccentricities, watching the sun set and rise to the melodic rhythms of the Rajdhani Express from Delhi to Mumbai is an unrivaled peace.
Mumbai
Contradictions could easily be the national motto of India, and that is no better demonstrated than in Mumbai. From the calming oasis of the Taj Mahal Palace’s poolside to the swarms of worshippers on Maha Shivaratri, the city is an existing contradiction.
