Oct 8

A day ahead of US, still in Khajuraho, but packing for Varanasi (Banaras), the city of light.  We are told not to go to Vindyachal, city of 4 birds and a bell, during the full moon on the 11th.  Too crowded, too crazy.  That must be something, considering...

 We have been living in a small village for the past few days.  A tiny green stone/mud building is the place where our chai is made on a wood fire, served in styrofoam cups.  Very civilized.

 The place is surrounded by very old hills, worn down by time.  It used to be jungle with tigers.  Now more tamed.

 The groundbreaking was completed with an offering of rose petals, fragrant, and vibrant.

 All the while a huge Mahua tree kept us mostly cool and protected.

From Varanasi back to Delhi and perhaps the Taj Mahal if there's half a day left.  Meanwhile

a night show at the temples,

the end of Navaratri, and boys fishing, out of school for the holiday.