Some lovely opportunities are opening up for me to visit the local preschools (Anganwadi) and see how the Indian government tries to provide for young children, preparing them for school as well as receive meals to help with their nutrition and health. I went to the Anganwadi in the Landour Bazaar, a small, simple home that Rekha uses for approx 8 - 10 young children. We sang songs and rhymes together - made paper aeroplanes and drawings and in spite of very little ability to communicate, (conversation Hindi is difficult) managed to have fun.
With just a week or so left in Uttarakhand, we are taking a few days to visit Haridwar and Rishikesh. Today we are in Haridwar - which is located at the point where the Ganges emerges from the Himalayas. It is Uttarakhand's holiest city.
Tonight we went to Har-ki Pairi Ghat (The Footstep of God) where it is said, God dropped some divine nectar and left behind a footprint. Hindu pilgrims flock here to immerse in the Ganga's spiritually purifying currents. (Ken was not tempted to 'have a quick dip' even tho the temperature is 35 degrees!!) We did join the thousands as they gathered for the 'Ganga Aarti' and watched a fire ceremony, pilgrims bathing, and others floating flower baskets lit with candles.
This has to be one of the busiest areas we have visited, it even beats Delhi!!
Tomorrow some temple visits and more Ghats before going to Rishikesh on Sunday.
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| At the Anganwadi with Rekha and some of the children. |
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| On the way to the station we passed demonstrators who were on strike on Friday |
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| There seems to a continual need to sleep in India - anywhere. |
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| For some though it's heavy work. |
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| In Haridwar at the Hari - Ki Pairi Ghat |
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| Surrounded by lots of people and lots of fire |
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| It's hot and tempting to have a quick dip, but the Ganga doesn't look too clean. |
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| Flowers and candles are put onto the water. |
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