Ahmedabad

I walked down the airplane stairs in a haze. Quite literally, it was about 86F at 4:00AM. The faint smell of something burning, the low light, that very specific India scent all bringing me right back to a place seemingly reserved in memory. I got through Sardar Vallabbhai with ease (In Gujarati: everything alright? have you been coughing? No. Okay, pass for swine flu). And Saileshmasa arrived soon in his compact Maruti 800. I took in the familiar sites: poverty on the streets, sometimes nonsensical traffic patterns (more on this later), and the pulsing feeling of another day beginning in Ahmedabad. We drove by the famous Shahibaug neighborhood, the seat of the industrialist kings of the 19-20th century. We passed by regal Kankaria Lake, the man-made marvel dating from the 15th century. Already, I'm reminded of the proximity of old and new, of strict conservatism and unbridled progress, of kings and business men and corrupt politicians and poverty-- India can be overwhelming at times.

Nevertheless, thanks to the sleep I gained on the flight, I felt energized and ready for the day. Itinerary: phone, mangos, train, family visit, food, internet, etc.

Considering that I was just here a few months ago, we hit the ground running, no sense of awkwardness or adjustment needed. A quick shower (though it would be supplemented by my sweat all day), some tea, some mangoes, some snacks, a ride around in the heat, some repacking of the bags, a visit to Alkamaci's work, a webcam chat with Dad and Vinay, some phone talks, a visit to Monu's father-in-law, a visit to Rajenmama-- the day flew by. Next thing I knew I was visiting Mauli and Amimami.

Dad generously gifted Mauli a laptop, which she was excited to have. We spent some time joking around and headed out to eat.

I was craving some Pani Puri and junk food so we headed to Bikanerwala to grab some bites..

And some delicious Veg. Burger...

I'm heading off to Jodhpur today at 11:10AM on the Jammu Tawi Express. Ahmedabad has been familiar and comforting in a sense: an easy transition. But the real adventure begins today. I can't wait. Jodhpur here I come!



(Mauli, Ma with gifted Laptop, 5:00PM)



(Mauli, Amimami, Ma, Alkamaci, Saileshmasa, Me 5:00PM)



(Me enjoying Sev Puri at Bikanerwala 8:00PM)


(Veg. Burger, Bikanerwala, Nehrunagar crossroads, Satellite Rd. 8:00PM)