I rode an Elephant and then the Monkeys stole my wallet

Festivals and Culture

I could describe all that I have seen, smelled, and felt regarding the culture here, but still pictures would be necessary show the dances, the drums, the music, and the vibrance of Pune. Below is a selection of photos of the events I have attended in the past week which would be far too difficult and tedious to illustrate with words.

Last Sunday, we were invited to a neighborhood event where local children and adults alike performed dances to traditional India music in commemoration of Teachers’ Day. It was a lengthily event, running over four hours in duration. The attendees told Swapna Tai that they were very much impressed with out ability to sit quietly for such a extensive period of time. Little did they know that as a missionary’s daughter I have been training for this type of stuff for years.

Older dancer in traditional dress for Bharatanatyam

String of bells on feet for the dance

Younger girls dancing Bharatanatyam

Yesterday the highly anticipated Ganesh Festival started. Since then invitations to aartis - worship ceremonies performed each of the 10 days of the festival to honor the God - have been plentiful. So far, I have attended four and the young girls in the neighborhood have assured us that we must come everyday to sprinkle rice on their idols and eat prasad. Not sure if this will be feasible as I can really eat only so much Jalebi, but nevertheless their hospitality and impromptu bollywood dancing has been both entertaining and welcome.