It turns out that we've arrived in the middle of a big festival
week in Gujarat. The Hindu holiday of Diwali (Festival of Lights) began the day before we arrived; this holiday is as big in India as Christmas is in the U.S. Moreover, on the second day of Diwali, the Gujarati New Year begins as well. We've learned that each of the 28 states of India has its own date for its New Year, and this happens to be when Gujarat celebrates. Also part of the multi-day Diwali celebration is "Brother-Sister Day" ("Bhai Bij") -- when sisters visit their brothers and present them with a red-and-yellow string "Rakhi" bracelet, signifying their sincere wish for their brother's wellbeing. The brothers tie these on, and also receive a spot of red "tikka" on their foreheads, promising that they will take care of their sisters in any time of need.
Many people are on holiday this week. Lots of stores are closed, and even the newspapers stopped printing new editions for three days! Many buildings -- even some petrol stations -- are decorated with lights, and there are fireworks going off every evening -- sometimes even in the middle of the street. Locals keep telling us that the city isn't as busy as usual due to the holiday, as many people are away on vacation, but I can't even comprehend that the chaotic mix of people, vehicles, and animals could possibly increase.
I guess CSC India Team 4 will just have to follow local customs and celebrate the new year.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, what is NGO?
just finished catching up on your blog. wonderful stories ... even before reading, after the themed goodbye, your trip started inspiring us to get back to cooking Indian food. Albert already made our favorite stuffed pepper dish (quite spicey.) Not sure you'll get us to India though ... Irene
ReplyDeleteBill, an NGO is a "non-governmental organization" -- basically the equivalent of a non-profit. In developing countries such as India, NGOs do a lot of the "heavy lifting" in terms of assisting local populations with healthcare, livelihood enhancement, housing, and so on. Thanks for following my blog!
ReplyDeleteIrene, thanks for following my blog! I didn't find as much time to write blog entries as I wanted to while in India, since the work & after-work activities were so intense. I do plan to write up and add more entries though -- partly to make sure I don't forget some of the highlights of the amazing CSC experience.
ReplyDelete