The essence of India

This morning we went to see the bathing rituals in Varanasi. It is meant to remit yourself from sin. There are not many people bathing this morning, so the “good” people stayed at home. Just to be sure, I put my hand in the water and touch my forehead.

The city is situated on the west bank of the river Ganges. Every morning there is “new” light on the city. It’s a stunning beauty to behold. Reminiscent of the Canal Grande in Venice. On a small boat we went past ages old palaces from a glorious past. One of them is being turned into a five star hotel. Within a couple of years the capitalist god will have taken over from the others in the holy city. Varanasi is a perfect summation of the essence of India. Look hard for it and you will see and experience a unique country.

It’s spiritual yet opportunistic, set with one foot in the past and confusing modern times with money. It seems like India can’t make her mind up where she wants to be. The food is great by the way, but this is not the essence. India is a perpetual cycle of beginning and ending amidst dirt and beauty, kindness and hostility. Think of it what you may think, it will stay with you forever.

The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Sid (though Nienke may agree).