We visited the temple, the palace and the market. It is a very welcoming place where we have been greeted with genuine warmth. Many people we have met have asked where we are from and then the conversation, thanks to Dan, progresses to the test match between India and England. The Indians all foresaw a draw.
Tonight we were lucky to be in Orchha for one the main Hindu religious festivals. People had travelled for over 100km to be present at tonight's procession and ceremony. They sat together in the towns square to eat the dinner they had prepared and brought with them; chappati and various vegetarian curries. We moved through the crowded streets to seek out the procession. Once in a position to wait for the procession to pass, as a group, we attracted a large crowd who stood and stared at us. For some people it is the first time they have seen western people in person. A policeman with his big stick had to move in and direct the crowd along as they were blocking the road. We have been asked by many Indian people to be in their family photos as it is a novelty to see and speak with a westener. A bizarre and humbling experience which results in many giggles on our part. The lady whose house were standing in front of came outside and welcomed us by giving us each a tikka red dot on our foreheads. We were then invited to view the procession from her neighbors balcony to escape the ever growing staring crowed. The procession was an energetic mixture of musicians, dancers and people dressed as Lord Rama whose wedding is the cause for the festival and which is reenacted each year.
A small town with a big heart which swelled in numbers by people's desire to see, feel and connect with their faith.
Looks amazing guys!
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