Even though they’ve been without internet for awhile, the Global Awareness in Action India Team would like to update us on their travels! This is the first of several blog posts describing earlier parts of their trip.
July 1:
Our first day was a day of cultural exploration and contrasts in Old Delhi. We began with a visit to the Fabindia store to outfit ourselves in traditional Indian clothes—certainly a contrast to our usual garb! Our colorfully-clad crew then headed to the Lodhi Gardens for our Orientation, where we discussed expectations and goals for the program, health and safety, and Indian history, life, and culture.
After a delicious lunch of South Indian food (dosas and chutney) at Sarvana Bhavan, we headed across town to “Old Delhi” to visit a Sikh temple. Removing our shoes and covering our heads, as is customary when entering a place of prayer, we stepped inside to experience the calm and peaceful atmosphere that was so different from the bustling city outside. We sat for fifteen minutes just taking in our surroundings and listening to the singing and chanting.
We then set off by bicycle rickshaw to Jama Masjid mosque. Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India, and sits within a walled area on hill overlooking Old Delhi. We walked the circumference of the walls to take in the incredible views, and saw many people at prayer. We were struck by the incredible diversity of religions here, and by how so many people of different faiths live so peacefully, accepting and accommodating different perspectives.
Our final stop for the day was a Jain temple. Again, bicycle rickshaws provided us with transportation as we made our way through the crowded streets. As we entered, the students kicked off their shoes and covered their heads automatically, already used to the ritual. At the temple, we met with Jain priests to learn about the tenets of the religion. Everyone we have met has been wonderfully hospitable, and happy to take us in, share their knowledge, and answer our questions. At the end of our visit, we climbed to the top of the temple for a fabulous view of the old city. Looking out over the city as the sun set, listening to the bells clanging, and watching the crowds of people in the streets below, we reflected on the experiences of the day and the contrasts India embodies: chaotic and peaceful, traditional and modern, old and new.
Our day ended at Pindas restaurant with yet another delicious meal; this time we ate North Indian food, which featured flat breads, meat, vegetables, and heavy sauces. Our trip is off to an excellent start, and we look forward to the many new experiences of the coming weeks.
-GA India Team