India Festival Souvenir Book-2008 (Part 2)

Incredible IndiaRe-creation of a village of Rajasthan fromolden times, Chokhi Dhani Village, is createdto experience the real Rajasthani culture. It isset up just like a village fair, which has ongoingshows and mini-rides like any park inAmerica. The difference, however, is thatChokhi Dhani Village mimics an old villageof Rajasthan with rich warmth and rusticcharm. It is a time machine, which goes backto olden times of village life in Rajasthan.Camels were common way of transportationthen; I experienced the thrill especially whenI rode a camel as it rose from the ground andsettled back down. It was a learning experienceat “Panghat”, which showed ancient wayof pulling water out of the well and how a villagelady sitting onthe ground and cookingin a hut. It wasstriking to see howvillage style huts representMevar cultureremains cool in thesummer heat of thedesert without anyAC. Cottage style hutstake you back in time withtypical ethnic décor withmodern amenities withcharm of its own. It wasamazing to watch a ladywith seven pots on herhead dancing on thetunes of desert. Potter By Sonia Chhedadance and Ghoomer arepopular folk dances of Rajasthan. Experienceof having a meal was unique and unforgettable.It was a sitting on the ground dinner inan open round shaped area where I was pamperedwith different authentic dishes servedon my plate made out of leaves. I could notleave without looking at the handicrafts inNational Haat bazaar. I truly felt as if I hadtaken a trip back to the olden days in India,and I could truly appreciate the fascinatingculture of India.After having that once in a lifetime experience,I could not forget to visit the wellknownTaj Mahal. Seeing the Taj Mahal inperson was definitely a memorable and overwhelmingexperience. Pictures in books ofthe Taj Mahal do not give justice. I stood as amere ant in the shadows of the colossal TajMahal. The stories behind it are epic andtruly illustrate the deep complexity andmeaning behindIndia that I waseager to discover.Indian architectureis truly extraordinary.After all, it isIncredible India.“Our fear paralyses our thinking power” 51