Namaste and Vanakkam! It’s hard to believe just one week has passed since I left my home in New Zealand to embark on this Indian adventure! Time seems to warp here; it feels like a month’s worth of experiences have been compressed into these seven days. Each day brims with novel encounters. Here are the top three highlights of my initial week in Tamil Nadu.
Symphony of Colours
My first taste of India was from the aeroplane window, descending towards Chennai’s mesmerising mosaic of rooftops. A vivid patchwork of blue, pink, gold, and yellow rooftops unfurled beneath us. This visual feast continued as we settled into Pondicherry for our first five nights.
Pondicherry, steeped in French colonial history, presents a delightful melange of architectural styles and cultural legacies. The streets are a testament to a unique blend of European elegance and Indian vibrancy. The local architecture, while distinctly French in design, is bursting with a uniquely Indian combination of colours. This rich tapestry extends to the locals’ attire, particularly the sarees, which add a dynamic splash of life to the town’s landscape.
Our visit to the Manakula Vinayagar Ganesha Temple was a standout. The temple’s walls, adorned with multicoloured Ganeshas and a ceiling reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel, created an awe-inspiring backdrop for the golden chariot procession.
Traffic Tapestry
After we arrived in Chennai we took the bus to Mahabalipuram. We rapidly realised that Indian traffic is different from New Zealand. While driving on the left is familiar, little else is recognisable!
The roads gyrate to a raucous hip-hop beat of blaring horns and a ballet of unexpected manoeuvres. What appears chaotic is, in fact, a harmonious dance of movement and unspoken understanding. Observing a traffic officer deftly managing a five-way roundabout during rush hour was a sight to behold. The apparent disorder hides an efficient system that somehow, against all odds, works seamlessly. While stray dogs waltz through the traffic with the finesse of seasoned performers, I suspect it might take me a bit longer to adapt.
Connecting with Local People
The most remarkable aspect of this week has been the diverse individuals we’ve encountered. The locals’ readiness to share their thoughts and life experiences with us has been deeply touching.
A memorable encounter was our lunch with the residents of Auroville. We delved into topics such as life in this intentional community, its mission, and the current challenges it faces. The women we spoke with were remarkably open and candid, and we felt fortunate that they welcomed us with such warmth.
This first week has reshaped my perceptions of India. The reality of Indian culture, spirituality, and traditions defies preconceived notions. As I embark on the upcoming five weeks, I’m eager to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of this diverse and dynamic country. Stay tuned for more stories from this incredible adventure 🙂