tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62099178956934478612024-03-22T06:14:06.904+05:30BombayJulesA Mumbai Expat Blog.
Seeing, Eating, Shopping and Commenting my way around BombayBombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.comBlogger202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-18034679053776935062014-06-23T13:08:00.000+05:302014-06-23T14:07:19.427+05:30How do I say 'Goodbye Bombay'?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been putting off writing this for some time. I wasn't really sure how to word it. Or how I would feel whilst writing my swan song. How do I say 'Goodbye Bombay'?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yes, it's true - I am leaving Maximum City. Mr Jules has been called back to take a position in the UK, the packers are in and I have one foot out of the door. My doggie Bartlet is preparing for a new life on pastures green. In fact, I have known for some time that the inevitable was going to happen but I felt such a strong connection to my blog, my readers and Bombay, that I have put off mentioning it for as long as possible.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8dEWeGrOAvM5iGnrkH2dzqWb5_2-ExDpCX1C15ciAzTDKyHHh973K16Evf851ggSJkC_YHCY6XP82JziOUIplZGkWXEqMkSD0GfigOBPX-ZgthLuiV_I561v_QpGeh0PJCeSrXOSaKc/s1600/Taj+Mahal+JE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8dEWeGrOAvM5iGnrkH2dzqWb5_2-ExDpCX1C15ciAzTDKyHHh973K16Evf851ggSJkC_YHCY6XP82JziOUIplZGkWXEqMkSD0GfigOBPX-ZgthLuiV_I561v_QpGeh0PJCeSrXOSaKc/s1600/Taj+Mahal+JE.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've never properly revealed myself before on this blog...here I am!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's very emotional. My Mumbai journey has been the most rewarding of my life. It has brought me so much and changed the person I am for the better. There is too much to hark on about that I don't really know where to begin with it all. The people, the city's hidden gems, the people, the travel, the people, the food....and of course the shopping! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1Um-V4FZOgHBsLMAFvBh3OiXak-48z3jUrcoZXLzjRcUGK_9M9odsBwzxuhn7GuuRY2Bnsov9YN_1GK66IFb1TwH8Sl5FZv2LVJk4LDKWhI9xHkNfsqg4xmyPZ5baszBxl-Vm8vjl_A/s1600/wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1Um-V4FZOgHBsLMAFvBh3OiXak-48z3jUrcoZXLzjRcUGK_9M9odsBwzxuhn7GuuRY2Bnsov9YN_1GK66IFb1TwH8Sl5FZv2LVJk4LDKWhI9xHkNfsqg4xmyPZ5baszBxl-Vm8vjl_A/s1600/wedding.jpg" height="226" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And here is the fabled Mr Jules (us on our weddnig day)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When I started writing my blog almost exactly two years ago - it was only ever intended as a communication with friends and family and perhaps other expats. It soon became much more than that. As I began to explore the city and shop for furniture for our apartment, I also began to share information on the best stores with newcomers. Whilst sharing personal cultural experiences with those back home, my blog seemed to help other 'accompanying spouses' arriving in the city - who were apprehensive or did not know where to begin with setting up home. Then, within about five months, BombayJules started to attract a local readership as well - Mumbaikars began to tell me that they enjoyed the alternative perspective on the city that only a foreigner could bring. Not too rose-tinted I hope: the city has many flaws for sure! Thank you to those city-dwellers who have written to me personally to show appreciation of those posts. Please continue to explore and enjoy Mumbai - it's not an easy place to live but there are lots of hidden gems yet to be discovered.<br />
<br />
Having never written publicly before I started blogging (other than business reports and English Language exam entries), the whole thing has been a revelation to me and opened up a creative side that I never knew I had. Certainly, I could improve the standard of my writing (and grammar!) but it has given me a massive ego boost when a few pieces have been picked up by newspapers and websites. My feed can also be found on 'We are the City' and 'We are Mumbai' and I have had many requests to write for online sites such as Times of India, The Scribbler, Style Dabba etc etc. However, I do believe that specially written content should be paid for - that's why kids go to university to study journalism and I feel sad that free content from bloggers should threaten that institution. Blogging should be a showcase for writing and opinion, not a free-for-all bargain basement opportunity for the media industry!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjgdKtDv_zv_N50wd0uZkYOGH4wXwS-JpAM_oy6zbu-MUpAlcqh1wCD1QKT3RfCoH3pJR6nlb6rXcchmRC1vk7XJZzZrmE65yaiFH502kCdpLq3pDVaR8xC5IxoIey3v1DeUh-Xw0-zw/s1600/140623+Mumbai+Misc+088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkjgdKtDv_zv_N50wd0uZkYOGH4wXwS-JpAM_oy6zbu-MUpAlcqh1wCD1QKT3RfCoH3pJR6nlb6rXcchmRC1vk7XJZzZrmE65yaiFH502kCdpLq3pDVaR8xC5IxoIey3v1DeUh-Xw0-zw/s1600/140623+Mumbai+Misc+088.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our belongings (and my many Mumbai purchases!) being loaded on to a container. So sad.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The amazing cultural and travel experiences that I have had in India are, of course, far too numerous to mention: From spectacular Indian weddings and intimate Ganpati celebrations; to visits to the ethereal Taj Mahal and the Golden Temple; riding on elephants in Assam and learning to photograph Bengal tigers in Tadoba; floating up the Ganges in Varanasi or the backwaters of Kerala; bargaining for rugs and brass collectibles in Rajasthani bazaars; the refreshment of smoggy city air by the crashing rains of the monsoon; learning to cook butter chicken with the Pandit sisters and becoming addicted to Parsi cuisine; dancing to Daler Mehndi in the Hawaian Shack; drinking chai in Dharavi and gorging myself on Vada Pav on the side of the expressway; learning to appreciate tribal art and buying up crates of Indian textiles and crafts; buzzing around in Mumbai's bumble-bee auto-ricks; photographing everything I can possible photograph from the inside of a car. Two years have brought me and Mr Jules endless delights.<i> Incredible India</i> indeed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkKJ9O_wqRIyqmthu4YE59zk2hz87Izf6Z24NBSViMZ22aIB78vmgRjKDYrDhU5PzdCbnrbVUC2BAEHyVzJD48gRT825CwTDepGCULkUGW9pLwnOy05v5Vcict-RYtEqgJNowwPB7DWmI/s1600/Tiger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkKJ9O_wqRIyqmthu4YE59zk2hz87Izf6Z24NBSViMZ22aIB78vmgRjKDYrDhU5PzdCbnrbVUC2BAEHyVzJD48gRT825CwTDepGCULkUGW9pLwnOy05v5Vcict-RYtEqgJNowwPB7DWmI/s1600/Tiger.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very little comes close to seeing your first Bengal Tiger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some of you will know that I have been working with The Foundation for Mother & Child Health for two years - a far departure from the corporate accountant that I was before - and the wrench of leaving this organisation is also very hard for me. In those two years, FMCH has gone from being a staff of five and a managing committee - helping a few hundred malnourished children in the Dhobi Ghat slums - to a staff of nearly 20 and and an Executive Council reaching out to thousands through the replication of our model in other parts of Mumbai and rural Maharashtra. Exciting times. I have been so lucky to have been involved with the strategic planning process that will help evolve this wonderful organisation - I just hope that I can somehow continue to contribute. Thank you all at the Foundation for welcoming me in June 2012 - and putting up with my opinionated self all of this time!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_S32jroWd20HIjffhWParv096qAwMqe3M4jC11fA0FoApyEQeTrv4_6dxbw_GhV5swcc6BRo6y27O4FayHaJqMHMr1PV2_7aads_3-Vqiq4I_dhTpR6g8bgjqfn8djWkzbjiyCYHcRQ/s1600/DSC_2064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_S32jroWd20HIjffhWParv096qAwMqe3M4jC11fA0FoApyEQeTrv4_6dxbw_GhV5swcc6BRo6y27O4FayHaJqMHMr1PV2_7aads_3-Vqiq4I_dhTpR6g8bgjqfn8djWkzbjiyCYHcRQ/s1600/DSC_2064.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The amazing team behind Foundation for Mother & Child Health</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxsBorW7F8KVnsIwF0cKbMj0L_xk3NXRumAMn-uZUanwxpYokdAkk-egBTAOkp0QYI_X1At7qyLFHttyJjIzPAN-enEififZOFk50oF0xmoy9vFcuYceTNXTWG6jMcKgRYR69qdSZkjw/s1600/Clinic+Day+111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxsBorW7F8KVnsIwF0cKbMj0L_xk3NXRumAMn-uZUanwxpYokdAkk-egBTAOkp0QYI_X1At7qyLFHttyJjIzPAN-enEififZOFk50oF0xmoy9vFcuYceTNXTWG6jMcKgRYR69qdSZkjw/s1600/Clinic+Day+111.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clinic at FMCH.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The most important contribution that Mumbai has made to my life is of course...Bartlet the street dog. I adopted him at an animal welfare event in November 2013. He nearly died within the first 48 hours of owning him (unbeknown to us, he had a serious case of dysentery) but we soon nursed him back to health and he has been an absolute joy ever since. He's cheeky, sometimes naughty (but he's just a puppy) and he adores people and other dogs. I just love his welcoming, smiling face with his tongue hanging out when he greets me (even if I have been out of the room for only two minutes!) Unfortunately he has become very scared of walking outside, due to the noise and the traffic and it is for this reason, that I am looking forward going back to the UK - where he can run in the green fields to his heart's content. I know he is going to love it - and he will enjoy the cold weather too. I have to admit, I think I will enjoy being in the cold again too!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SEy0VTyP5YOnTZtbawDAxoQWmUb90PBOpjT_gN07zI3PgepegJQ6EZpXinO-QKF2Cf8O1YGlgPzx_3FQTaLPGHrPbqmitC-_YHQd7Jt1hn2mDHbv2VlFz-NSg5DC0FljUhzC_6NbCeY/s1600/DSC09571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SEy0VTyP5YOnTZtbawDAxoQWmUb90PBOpjT_gN07zI3PgepegJQ6EZpXinO-QKF2Cf8O1YGlgPzx_3FQTaLPGHrPbqmitC-_YHQd7Jt1hn2mDHbv2VlFz-NSg5DC0FljUhzC_6NbCeY/s1600/DSC09571.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bartie has grown from this.....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSf7FiM8oLGgV92BJDE6wtWjlZS6feU3tNw9vpvGCKWuH-95DtEHOfAylnbf1Zq2K8NCBxA2CXt393AQKyQ_cekVP_RgSCyurTx7l03nnc2LliXU2CEwhUzkBsKsTXi3plYdcwqMEUhM/s1600/DSC_2190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSf7FiM8oLGgV92BJDE6wtWjlZS6feU3tNw9vpvGCKWuH-95DtEHOfAylnbf1Zq2K8NCBxA2CXt393AQKyQ_cekVP_RgSCyurTx7l03nnc2LliXU2CEwhUzkBsKsTXi3plYdcwqMEUhM/s1600/DSC_2190.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....to this!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
That just leaves me to say goodbye to you, the reader. I can't thank you enough for all the support and interest that you have shown in my ramblings over the last two years. It's been so much fun and it's given me so much satisfaction to gain the support of Indians as well as friends and family and people from all over the world who have written to me. I hope to blog again sometime in the near future - I will put up a notice on the BombayJules Facebook Page in case you want to see what I am up to in the UK.<br />
<br />
<i>So long dear reader, so long!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
In the manner of 'The X-Factor' or 'Big Brother'...here are the 'best moments' of my blogging career!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXujvO6cu93I1-ydT9v8TMF5ID_JiiHolkDCWYf9D1jceEafCkDrLqkrjOXFox5sQKc8s7JcmYFLP0kkfZ55D_p_w7aRLo6ZmPuoO1CmE0YPVqaIIvY3RnXroAyTWzA-NnkOtRzaKJE8/s1600/Ganpati+110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXujvO6cu93I1-ydT9v8TMF5ID_JiiHolkDCWYf9D1jceEafCkDrLqkrjOXFox5sQKc8s7JcmYFLP0kkfZ55D_p_w7aRLo6ZmPuoO1CmE0YPVqaIIvY3RnXroAyTWzA-NnkOtRzaKJE8/s1600/Ganpati+110.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very exciting moment when my blog gets picked up for the first time by DNA newspaper.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ez6u3Y4-SBTieKptK0trshSC3sOlZENjBdsEEh_c7XSKOeCwaV4JIO2gw8Zb9KIpmpPGcPlUP0aX8JGJmslqQ_4eVfgfUKlhzfsflZq70XC7eoOFSI0WRQn-NMdO8KV_hNZVjFabUwU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-12-17+at+13.28.49.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ez6u3Y4-SBTieKptK0trshSC3sOlZENjBdsEEh_c7XSKOeCwaV4JIO2gw8Zb9KIpmpPGcPlUP0aX8JGJmslqQ_4eVfgfUKlhzfsflZq70XC7eoOFSI0WRQn-NMdO8KV_hNZVjFabUwU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-12-17+at+13.28.49.png" height="640" width="508" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">My Beanbag post was a revelation to me - I never knew 'Beanbag 26407383' was such a mystery! This story was my most popular post ever and brought BombayJules lots of new readers (and a bit of media attention - as highlighted above on Midday and below on the Redbull website)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUwpo9wpkQPXS9dHKagDMy4xOqrnW67Ny4uJypQOQ4dgN_rcOV_YGdY-CmvEKMSTu4YT62epDywDWunMH_LzLdqFilxbDMGtCocKgkWJD9Ye9BiFpRkTwqgMExnugwGejVt3PnVqfwYk/s1600/Beanbag+red+bull.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEUwpo9wpkQPXS9dHKagDMy4xOqrnW67Ny4uJypQOQ4dgN_rcOV_YGdY-CmvEKMSTu4YT62epDywDWunMH_LzLdqFilxbDMGtCocKgkWJD9Ye9BiFpRkTwqgMExnugwGejVt3PnVqfwYk/s1600/Beanbag+red+bull.png" height="640" width="598" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7Lb5JiigAcGdaEc6zXJqdn5rJ05FggVcpeLf2BbfpwwWc1Lb5nrYkp-WzwLQsssKtx30cPBEWFOPNAFRuvO7vAta4X10T5batCCF1L8nB5RQqBzChX1S-wyBLPNAd-JEWCVzdHz3SEk/s1600/DSC01951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7Lb5JiigAcGdaEc6zXJqdn5rJ05FggVcpeLf2BbfpwwWc1Lb5nrYkp-WzwLQsssKtx30cPBEWFOPNAFRuvO7vAta4X10T5batCCF1L8nB5RQqBzChX1S-wyBLPNAd-JEWCVzdHz3SEk/s1600/DSC01951.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A personal highlight....being featured along side a pic of Salman Rushdie... ;-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiFcgU3n491XzAcQHtZzkOjLKvrKu92tNGubkkdvbbZ5V8xTn_7VNuMKdH5FpCvNgK2JoDsqkOMX0Zdzq_VMWcYmsiIcCkRJlGPvFFGq3W9mL3RANG9jDobflJuHQ5WO-tTTZNvjxGQY/s1600/Culturama+June++2013+-+LWIT+Mumbai+Julia+Smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiFcgU3n491XzAcQHtZzkOjLKvrKu92tNGubkkdvbbZ5V8xTn_7VNuMKdH5FpCvNgK2JoDsqkOMX0Zdzq_VMWcYmsiIcCkRJlGPvFFGq3W9mL3RANG9jDobflJuHQ5WO-tTTZNvjxGQY/s1600/Culturama+June++2013+-+LWIT+Mumbai+Julia+Smith.jpg" height="640" width="462" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">My first 'media appearance'! Culturama June 2013<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHwmtf1AgBU2qR3yAPsWzFHDilb11_Cx6sMKpnVdJvusk8Jmc8LVadZwJYU41WKOt9VVIj3x7coG3dFJAxOXGxv9NdZMHNQFngT98quAfXXxe5qd6q-Ivv96fPhI4nV2LD14y8GceB_I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-16+at+17.20.56.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHwmtf1AgBU2qR3yAPsWzFHDilb11_Cx6sMKpnVdJvusk8Jmc8LVadZwJYU41WKOt9VVIj3x7coG3dFJAxOXGxv9NdZMHNQFngT98quAfXXxe5qd6q-Ivv96fPhI4nV2LD14y8GceB_I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-03-16+at+17.20.56.png" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Absolute India online newspaper<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6EeYHJZvsygaTY3V1ADdlWMuMFDiebhjtAOLGe4gPWVH735-pnxh33b7SY-GAKw4DdrDC6SnHureRfgbvS8Z6zjG2Wo_cDjvOBmPboSp2ksqWuJ9DSM0pIbhe4-MQhXpZQCRMHshpZ0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-06-10+at+16.41.17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS6EeYHJZvsygaTY3V1ADdlWMuMFDiebhjtAOLGe4gPWVH735-pnxh33b7SY-GAKw4DdrDC6SnHureRfgbvS8Z6zjG2Wo_cDjvOBmPboSp2ksqWuJ9DSM0pIbhe4-MQhXpZQCRMHshpZ0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-06-10+at+16.41.17.png" height="578" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">"Captures the essence of Mumbai"....thanks for your kind words Deliverychef!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-45845074560825275182014-06-19T18:55:00.000+05:302015-07-07T14:57:02.725+05:30The Foundation for Mother & Child Health opens in Powai<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been ages since I mentioned the Foundation. For new readers - yes I do actually have a volunteering job - when I'm not blogging (or shopping)!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The last time I talked about our work was <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/11/weighing-and-measuring-kids.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I explained how FMCH specifically reduces and prevents malnutrition amongst children in the Dhobi Ghat area. How our staff operate from tiny clinics to improve the lives of hundreds of 'India's future adults'. I also previously wrote about the opening of a clinic in a 10 square foot room in Sukhawni ...<a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/another-day-in-life-of-volunteer.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigJNGgRY2EGZUhyGlp3AsIT0qRNZkmRXr0U0R6pahilA4Rw716C_ePyu0I9Fx7XluQS10nkOYgqjNUPjTnkvPR_yCy_jLuWFj0CutcpT0eKSbfxmmxYcvxzc7KXXpIaM2cNB3nOYmyTE/s1600/DSC_2314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigJNGgRY2EGZUhyGlp3AsIT0qRNZkmRXr0U0R6pahilA4Rw716C_ePyu0I9Fx7XluQS10nkOYgqjNUPjTnkvPR_yCy_jLuWFj0CutcpT0eKSbfxmmxYcvxzc7KXXpIaM2cNB3nOYmyTE/s1600/DSC_2314.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">One of new mothers with her daughter outside the Powai centre.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A lot has happened since then and it's quite strange looking back at past posts about FMCH. Over the last two years, our managing committee has been working on a strategic plan that includes objectives to take our operating model and replicate it (either directly or through NGO and corporate partnerships). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our long term ambition is that, with sufficient funding, we can open an <i>Institute for Health & Nutrition</i> where we can intensively train other NGO and hospital staff to run their own malnutrition reduction and healthy eating awareness programmes (through 'Training of Trainers'). Already, we have made some significant partnerships: During the last 18 months we have implemented a successful programme in rural Maharashtra, a regular Saturday clinic in Dharavi and an intensive malnutrition centre at a local hospital. These are just the beginnings of our long term reach. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrGqOweTZY7bY41pQUEjuEOPQUN9aMg99jeI2MXAyH8U91z03yw3Yeo0RPk2LaUukuMme__DhzIpvT6OIjTq5rV5GyOn_3iTucNQSx84yrnIBZciUOTXs-EW3SgZhdCWpEkUTlgJfL7o/s1600/DSC_2396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifrGqOweTZY7bY41pQUEjuEOPQUN9aMg99jeI2MXAyH8U91z03yw3Yeo0RPk2LaUukuMme__DhzIpvT6OIjTq5rV5GyOn_3iTucNQSx84yrnIBZciUOTXs-EW3SgZhdCWpEkUTlgJfL7o/s1600/DSC_2396.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Wearing her best dress and extremely happy to be here!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday was another significant day for FMCH, because we opened an additional centre in a Powai slum (in partnership with two other NGOs who gave us the space to carry out our work). Powai is in the north of Mumbai - about an hour or two's drive from our existing community in Dhobi Ghat - depending on the traffic. In Powai, the Foundation is now able to conduct its clinics, pregnancy classes (see below) and cooking demonstrations to provide much needed services to a wider audience. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #5aa2ae; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.46px;">“We dream of a world where the potential of each child is not restricted by poor early health or malnutrition”<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #5aa2ae; line-height: 18.39px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(FMCH Vision)</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At FMCH, there is a huge focus on the first 1,000 days of a child's life - so we hold pregnancy classes to teach women about the importance of feeding themselves and their babies correctly (including breastfeeding techniques) - in the hope that a healthy child will be born at the outset. If a child is nurtured correctly within the first 1,000 days of its life (that's from conception to the age of two), it is more likely to develop properly - both physically and mentally. So this is a critical programme for us and one that can be easily replicated by other NGOs. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmu5cUYX_VVBN_o8-9nBAR_v0w3WYfbPhWJ88ZpiEl6toEb9UQHSy5fNChR7iKLZ8GaLuwRQMcnLisC94wlOtsQwY5ZzC9oNCaG7woKawIDuA2HTv3l-KcQ-rIC6Kdl2udyz_pmYIiqPw/s1600/DSC_2366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmu5cUYX_VVBN_o8-9nBAR_v0w3WYfbPhWJ88ZpiEl6toEb9UQHSy5fNChR7iKLZ8GaLuwRQMcnLisC94wlOtsQwY5ZzC9oNCaG7woKawIDuA2HTv3l-KcQ-rIC6Kdl2udyz_pmYIiqPw/s1600/DSC_2366.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measuring babies for height against weight to detect signs of undernourishment (per WHO guidelines)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's been amazing to see how much the organisation has grown over the last two years. From five members of staff to nearly twenty and new initiatives and partnerships starting almost every month. Exciting times!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Please visit <a href="http://www.fmch-india.org/">www.fmch-india.org</a> for more information about what this wonderful organisation does to help Mumbai's women and children. Of course, we are always looking for donations, CSR opportunities, volunteers and health/nutrition/business professionals who are able to give some of their time on a pro-bono basis. Do get in touch! <a href="mailto:contact@fmch-india.org">contact@fmch-india.org</a></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFXwQDsbQ89tXxBUzKLzH8SmcwMSFDznCnJE4GQ_boMcVa7XaNdr-1dH_OqfX2KlyOb6gT26JQ6St2jkKqiEp0ih3XrAppjtvtmIlL8VVK-u4IfLkN-9R47F44-632mfAu9RpKV49OjU/s1600/DSC_2326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFXwQDsbQ89tXxBUzKLzH8SmcwMSFDznCnJE4GQ_boMcVa7XaNdr-1dH_OqfX2KlyOb6gT26JQ6St2jkKqiEp0ih3XrAppjtvtmIlL8VVK-u4IfLkN-9R47F44-632mfAu9RpKV49OjU/s1600/DSC_2326.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Executive Director Piyasree Mukherjee cuts the ribbon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFl3jNshdzn4dq_1yngkJlp2dq0N94NFIAv5h0lQFLPF6g90NhIz8UPc-XxbC7MOzD72C2qaRMntyW4ENIgQ0BhexPvFgyMIzxu1nUp4kUyZOvMgrBOrZltodlQJVuxfvf_84EiCXzpU4/s1600/DSC_2331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFl3jNshdzn4dq_1yngkJlp2dq0N94NFIAv5h0lQFLPF6g90NhIz8UPc-XxbC7MOzD72C2qaRMntyW4ENIgQ0BhexPvFgyMIzxu1nUp4kUyZOvMgrBOrZltodlQJVuxfvf_84EiCXzpU4/s1600/DSC_2331.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As soon as the ribbon is cut, women from the new community rush to get inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDe9Lz0YdlTbmtqWI6mN5pPx4zpF-DVoEDwB73OcWF0vgZBlHfneSPOo8D3gw6DVb8EEcFDyGGmvwIpZwwpFOQMS3WAle8q4JUt3gAyhHTl5PYufwosAlNeGP751Q5ZlfW0nxnbJvtaik/s1600/DSC_2338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDe9Lz0YdlTbmtqWI6mN5pPx4zpF-DVoEDwB73OcWF0vgZBlHfneSPOo8D3gw6DVb8EEcFDyGGmvwIpZwwpFOQMS3WAle8q4JUt3gAyhHTl5PYufwosAlNeGP751Q5ZlfW0nxnbJvtaik/s1600/DSC_2338.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our head nutritionist, Neha Arora checks out one of the first customers!<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuzpNeemkvcKVenNfF6BC2M2hwGh0GmevKvxMb41JFSsnImWl7_MemcgL1PBFsRwKXQKYzLMAwY7C2tt56ujhUNzjahd9nNNsWcN2F_hHDvedjsGOvQ_LhrnhWmGKTTdz-j1bPNGqN0Q/s1600/DSC_2340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuzpNeemkvcKVenNfF6BC2M2hwGh0GmevKvxMb41JFSsnImWl7_MemcgL1PBFsRwKXQKYzLMAwY7C2tt56ujhUNzjahd9nNNsWcN2F_hHDvedjsGOvQ_LhrnhWmGKTTdz-j1bPNGqN0Q/s1600/DSC_2340.jpg" width="552" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandmothers welcome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQet3qo2ph7d7YJejubSa7x7CqVzL3Fn_csxu70UdZ6ZnOSc02MAFGYtKly6bSmOLidqh0sfuLqHwqH6JAkQzs_CNCwliQAIl_qWS2USVpBGJyGsItUpVX4eg5dtZMCAOM8dA25ffWZo/s1600/DSC_2367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHQet3qo2ph7d7YJejubSa7x7CqVzL3Fn_csxu70UdZ6ZnOSc02MAFGYtKly6bSmOLidqh0sfuLqHwqH6JAkQzs_CNCwliQAIl_qWS2USVpBGJyGsItUpVX4eg5dtZMCAOM8dA25ffWZo/s1600/DSC_2367.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The women wait their turn. In the foreground, Piya uses a tablet to enter client information straight to our new database which is 'held in the cloud'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW7z5trCZMgfd7zrpPy1bFvhj8DVUTQqTZeXqtD9JMqRLIX7uAvtuMMq-2T7zYknjnISKXxp4Nrw92FF3h-NrGK4L3zSlLZM5zLr-Ea0mbfXrACaWYNa5vXjfJJ1sFNseOowwTad91Io/s1600/DSC_2379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW7z5trCZMgfd7zrpPy1bFvhj8DVUTQqTZeXqtD9JMqRLIX7uAvtuMMq-2T7zYknjnISKXxp4Nrw92FF3h-NrGK4L3zSlLZM5zLr-Ea0mbfXrACaWYNa5vXjfJJ1sFNseOowwTad91Io/s1600/DSC_2379.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzaOVnWKfYfT39nhMhaUwwJA0DSwISgbJ07yC48CfNMWw2rFVKz1rUsoQbAp50UDJJxj3CzxMQeRrZR7lmzZVIswfzU87mVSXY_cD4Ta1z9acwlABXpapcYRhf8g0uqwQNxKXvwRaB98/s1600/DSC_2384.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzaOVnWKfYfT39nhMhaUwwJA0DSwISgbJ07yC48CfNMWw2rFVKz1rUsoQbAp50UDJJxj3CzxMQeRrZR7lmzZVIswfzU87mVSXY_cD4Ta1z9acwlABXpapcYRhf8g0uqwQNxKXvwRaB98/s1600/DSC_2384.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jocelyn, one of our Community Health Managers, talks to a young mother.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cHX3kJ0cskpS2eltHkKUHcsXYct0GHZaEsFoRZ71Tn_Bjb-ScF_fMiT9yo9yMWu-9Tju9cnd4THeyUJe7HwTcqRQe85BFU0e7cEJ-OGWXBQFrqB_3hD616m2qHzhrX8H8VCDYa-pS9s/s1600/DSC_2407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cHX3kJ0cskpS2eltHkKUHcsXYct0GHZaEsFoRZ71Tn_Bjb-ScF_fMiT9yo9yMWu-9Tju9cnd4THeyUJe7HwTcqRQe85BFU0e7cEJ-OGWXBQFrqB_3hD616m2qHzhrX8H8VCDYa-pS9s/s1600/DSC_2407.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many consultations between FMCH staff and women take place around the room. The space is a lot bigger than we're used to operating in so it's a nice change.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfQNMB3osiGp_1KDi8-1BMvwDztUOQTwwJhcXPbYIDramyAsLCWZ7HUIErA8Tm9cItM-fapV8b-3dlSBInV4PoeEuXq0gmS0489rYhUO83zg4wqtHIhlKJRrrChptc3nju9fxVfWElTo/s1600/DSC_2355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfQNMB3osiGp_1KDi8-1BMvwDztUOQTwwJhcXPbYIDramyAsLCWZ7HUIErA8Tm9cItM-fapV8b-3dlSBInV4PoeEuXq0gmS0489rYhUO83zg4wqtHIhlKJRrrChptc3nju9fxVfWElTo/s1600/DSC_2355.jpg" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinky, a Community Health Manager can't get enough of this cute baby!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeIHLsW702llTzNV536ZTLP7usNyLvHjcwsCAnwlxCLQqYpuB3VBfYrhMHngdLqfYj31wYStSb7V_zU1Pzsb1tLGUl8fta-rtLku2sAVLUpfwn83yw8E-wKaPKcX81W3LIRECe0WDZ7Q/s1600/DSC_2409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeIHLsW702llTzNV536ZTLP7usNyLvHjcwsCAnwlxCLQqYpuB3VBfYrhMHngdLqfYj31wYStSb7V_zU1Pzsb1tLGUl8fta-rtLku2sAVLUpfwn83yw8E-wKaPKcX81W3LIRECe0WDZ7Q/s1600/DSC_2409.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-34387393440391529482014-06-18T19:26:00.000+05:302014-06-18T19:57:09.975+05:30Harry - Star Jeweller to the Expat Wife<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's not usual that I am the last to know about something. Especially when it comes to shopping. But I was definitely not in the know when it came to Harry - Star Jeweller to the Expat Wife. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I told my friend MaximumCityMadam, that I had a 100 year old pendant that had been passed down to me by my mother's godmother which contained a pretty ruby - and that I wouldn't mind having this ruby re-incorporated into a ring (as I am not much one for jewellery but I do quite like rings). That's when MCM (the font of all shopping knowledge) told me about Harry - based at the Grand Hyatt hotel in Santacruz - 'where all the expats go to have their jewellery made'. <br />
<br />
Well it can be hard to trust people when it comes to matters of gold and diamonds and so I was very happy to go on MCM's recommendation. And the three times that I have since been to Harry's shop 'Living Jewels', I have always been at the back of a queue of western women <i>and</i> men waiting to have a consultation with Harry.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yVODrugxaVGe-1i7ZLYRtFa_-IBR-KwwNHUjJY_dK_sCxvrt2UVX9rq2zdyBF0GH3IJ5YJS4KDe-k2r7tnszU69V1Kl-j8xkk0Gvxcctoa0tWApOl3HbFKFFEY44sKOdcq1UAgU9P3U/s1600/DSC01990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3yVODrugxaVGe-1i7ZLYRtFa_-IBR-KwwNHUjJY_dK_sCxvrt2UVX9rq2zdyBF0GH3IJ5YJS4KDe-k2r7tnszU69V1Kl-j8xkk0Gvxcctoa0tWApOl3HbFKFFEY44sKOdcq1UAgU9P3U/s1600/DSC01990.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Living Jewels team (Harry on the left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So on my birthday, off I went with MCM to see Harry - clutching the ruby pendant which had such sentimental value to me but was unwearable. Mr Jules had kindly offered to pay for the making up of the ring as a birthday present - providing the price was reasonable. I also brought a picture of what I envisaged the end product to look like - a sort of Art Deco design with my ruby at the centre surrounded by tiny diamonds with a few more diamonds on the shoulders (well I was going to try my luck if Mr Jules was paying!).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCGPb7xEXQFUs6EqAl5UzBoZdj5aloO7B_qdPko1jWwYu8rvHkVzRcfYYrM3ChJDDoNZx7yotGoWsW1st667d8v1UUM_sl7Q2xzET6QvFUjUWVHkBv1wV7C2oGlQ4y9J8atwlYGcaeRg/s1600/ruby-and-diamond-ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJCGPb7xEXQFUs6EqAl5UzBoZdj5aloO7B_qdPko1jWwYu8rvHkVzRcfYYrM3ChJDDoNZx7yotGoWsW1st667d8v1UUM_sl7Q2xzET6QvFUjUWVHkBv1wV7C2oGlQ4y9J8atwlYGcaeRg/s1600/ruby-and-diamond-ring.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the design that I found on the internet that I was aiming for</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It took all of five seconds for Harry to look at my stone and the suggested design for him to agree 'no problem' and a <i>reasonable</i> price for the white gold shank and diamonds. Harry also explained to me that his jeweller craftsman was soon going back to his village for a holiday, and so he would get a shank made up right away so I could approve it before the setting of the stones. The setting would be ready for approval by the following Monday (this was a Friday). Excitedly, MCM and I went off and spent the rest of the weekend celebrating my birthday, leaving everything with Harry. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Come the following Monday, I unfortunately had a very poorly stomach, so couldn't make it back to Harry's shop to have a look at the setting. But that was no problem at all because Harry offered to send his son Akash to our apartment for me to approve it! Within 30 minutes, I was looking at the rough white gold shank which just looked like a piece of tin! But the shape was there and I was really pleased - and so no alterations would be required.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GcDb3GR48nuD9GCneqpZ5-RszXPRD-tg-45wx_YEdUT5zAkfDtVovcobJXvso9u7IVuJjx1UzWFpVTtxhgfsZhiI64j0ORmoEJMg5BLhi2JaWLYQQqHUmPLFAfLR08YIGX1dGF8npek/s1600/DSC01835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GcDb3GR48nuD9GCneqpZ5-RszXPRD-tg-45wx_YEdUT5zAkfDtVovcobJXvso9u7IVuJjx1UzWFpVTtxhgfsZhiI64j0ORmoEJMg5BLhi2JaWLYQQqHUmPLFAfLR08YIGX1dGF8npek/s1600/DSC01835.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akash holds the unfinished, unpolished shank for me to inspect....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssEiYPJd53vVOx4HCyuSY6EGoERt76IMpDj3V5oCPe8of0HMOQ-2uQZbgsCaBOsBQ-tkuztuwVDQpFMvFnH_psV1_EoLtwbGgvnjoujltCkLjtno7XAIcKrJ1v62Lb0A4XzrMVti-HKk/s1600/DSC01836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssEiYPJd53vVOx4HCyuSY6EGoERt76IMpDj3V5oCPe8of0HMOQ-2uQZbgsCaBOsBQ-tkuztuwVDQpFMvFnH_psV1_EoLtwbGgvnjoujltCkLjtno7XAIcKrJ1v62Lb0A4XzrMVti-HKk/s1600/DSC01836.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....and with my ruby slotted in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
An incredible two days later, and my ring was ready to be collected (that's five days in total!) This time I was well enough to make it to the shop, dragging along Mr Jules with his credit card. When Harry opened a neat, red box to reveal my gleaming, sparkling, new ruby ring, I was blown away! That sad old stone in its disgusting old yellow-gold setting looked completely different....and huge! Turns out that my li'l ol' ruby is nearly two carats in weight and not in bad condition.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpksCz7wn08-9MIItOcXQbTIVsbXbePuEnBk_D41p4PezXmBrixOMDwxKhyDSnJGv58XECe9x3MX-2QagKnCc4yuhJGB6EqsFJ8A2wb5AVMCcSzrUwQESOGVRsqD5yk7DaRpOY5hokffs/s1600/DSC_2426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpksCz7wn08-9MIItOcXQbTIVsbXbePuEnBk_D41p4PezXmBrixOMDwxKhyDSnJGv58XECe9x3MX-2QagKnCc4yuhJGB6EqsFJ8A2wb5AVMCcSzrUwQESOGVRsqD5yk7DaRpOY5hokffs/s1600/DSC_2426.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished article...(under natural lighting conditions)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsvALL3m2d5ne1wVinAYvGe9_ayIlNureJm3TFKDvsYo95jNPDwuOsv3lTRNWlAr3hT3npTGJ-CdCm7h-JImsongE5B6Fv_WtfzFX08cQVhDehZjPGUomwp398-T8JQU0RE9HdjhOR4Q/s1600/DSC_2428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsvALL3m2d5ne1wVinAYvGe9_ayIlNureJm3TFKDvsYo95jNPDwuOsv3lTRNWlAr3hT3npTGJ-CdCm7h-JImsongE5B6Fv_WtfzFX08cQVhDehZjPGUomwp398-T8JQU0RE9HdjhOR4Q/s1600/DSC_2428.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...and from the back. Hallmarked and everything.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So of course I would like to recommend Harry to anyone who would like a bespoke piece of jewellery made. His service, is fast, accurate, reasonably priced and trustworthy. Actually I have already been back with a deep lilac amethyst that I bought in Jaipur, which is being made into a silver ring - and due to be picked up this weekend (so excited again!)<br />
<br />
Harry is a real character and he works closely with his handsome and charming son to deliver whatever you have in mind. Not all business is bespoke orders - if you are looking for a quick purchase (as most visitors staying at the Hyatt will be), his shop is full of ready to buy jewellery and knick-knacks. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAb4dhloMX2cXP60C0Ubnv8781F_wjjCHOWFpo3ycp604QnsfHvXjjYIAWcCzT-6XfVy2-2eRKrMT_y0mxgEJCkLKB6Kvdjw-u1xt39GUB5cO6MyASiJwFgacOI0Uo1U6uU5bpzY20_Y/s1600/DSC01991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAb4dhloMX2cXP60C0Ubnv8781F_wjjCHOWFpo3ycp604QnsfHvXjjYIAWcCzT-6XfVy2-2eRKrMT_y0mxgEJCkLKB6Kvdjw-u1xt39GUB5cO6MyASiJwFgacOI0Uo1U6uU5bpzY20_Y/s1600/DSC01991.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harry!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumVFFcKQB-6kyeOWMTtJuFHslibR-hA4Q5-tCJAK4OiAThbOahzQO966KGHDJPn8w77fk0awQC3rEndqM5g1m0GeGkOxNcSJIukvym4JEH3GEx76OnWtCelWl_8FsBqPCg7baArgfc4U/s1600/DSC01992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumVFFcKQB-6kyeOWMTtJuFHslibR-hA4Q5-tCJAK4OiAThbOahzQO966KGHDJPn8w77fk0awQC3rEndqM5g1m0GeGkOxNcSJIukvym4JEH3GEx76OnWtCelWl_8FsBqPCg7baArgfc4U/s1600/DSC01992.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harry's rather good looking son Akash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk9TTeU9PYH-QtwDzF0cNnEw_yk9d7rSj6FTvhxl8cbmy168yeQluq8zeVPKqRvUOT-kbGkB65vwxri61YYpdEaoyMfK70HbBoMT8lv38FZbFpu1g8Avj1LiW4nV_OqLCEnAsxUkrIN0/s1600/DSC01993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk9TTeU9PYH-QtwDzF0cNnEw_yk9d7rSj6FTvhxl8cbmy168yeQluq8zeVPKqRvUOT-kbGkB65vwxri61YYpdEaoyMfK70HbBoMT8lv38FZbFpu1g8Avj1LiW4nV_OqLCEnAsxUkrIN0/s1600/DSC01993.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pret-a-porter rings and earrings! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPMCskHguwKroZfOHjpyS2vxD3ueD6PVKvDEdj7P6WPqaLRZGsHrY6m81XbSOuzBgGI6wG4nw6FY8el9bD4MqEROTQWuQfANN69fGOqfwf99YgnkQC3YNl82-05E94ntzeYkoSlyAhvc/s1600/DSC01995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPMCskHguwKroZfOHjpyS2vxD3ueD6PVKvDEdj7P6WPqaLRZGsHrY6m81XbSOuzBgGI6wG4nw6FY8el9bD4MqEROTQWuQfANN69fGOqfwf99YgnkQC3YNl82-05E94ntzeYkoSlyAhvc/s1600/DSC01995.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oLVnIG3CfVZs_rnh0HGuGnVtmdaWNO9gSspTr2YXUkZUmx1-m6NId2Rn-MojqWYkT3f9fyqvveWGybZ9AF1p8ztNZGStJvYKUnBPev66-iZS-2nZnDYd3NE_i8juOvqWLC8HFaoahr4/s1600/DSC01999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oLVnIG3CfVZs_rnh0HGuGnVtmdaWNO9gSspTr2YXUkZUmx1-m6NId2Rn-MojqWYkT3f9fyqvveWGybZ9AF1p8ztNZGStJvYKUnBPev66-iZS-2nZnDYd3NE_i8juOvqWLC8HFaoahr4/s1600/DSC01999.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Precious stone necklaces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKcV53B_nx1XmKPdwgbJZ7VsOq2QSd3gRg-zrervrU4J7r_PTBSATuXsdEpB8Xwy8rGuHmuG1ClPJDbezwiqAJLu0jx0l-8OxqsMymPHaOYCmDiAJ-Fiu5hTRG_MFYRthvoR4Dx8B5QM/s1600/DSC02002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKcV53B_nx1XmKPdwgbJZ7VsOq2QSd3gRg-zrervrU4J7r_PTBSATuXsdEpB8Xwy8rGuHmuG1ClPJDbezwiqAJLu0jx0l-8OxqsMymPHaOYCmDiAJ-Fiu5hTRG_MFYRthvoR4Dx8B5QM/s1600/DSC02002.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Father and son. From what I can see, they are the only ones doing any business in the Hyatt Shopping Plaza!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Harry<br />
<b>Living Jewels</b><br />
F-30B, Grand Hyatt Plaza<br />
Off Western Express Highway<br />
Vakola, Santacruz (E)<br />
Mumbai 400 055<br />
<br />
<i>The shop is located on the upper level of the shopping plaza of the Hyatt - towards the rear of the hotel (next to Popley's). Husbands struggling for gift ideas should take note!!!</i><br />
<br />
Tel: 6702 0418 / 3060 1028<br />
Mobile: 98201 50456<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:living_jewel@hotmail.com">living_jewel@hotmail.com</a></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-69886789329832013032014-06-10T13:41:00.001+05:302014-06-13T12:42:10.530+05:30The Changing Colours of the Mumbai Sky<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every so often, I take a photograph of the Arabian Sea from my living room balcony, with the same block of flats in the distance. Perhaps when the light glows after dusk, or when the sun is setting - or when the sky is lit up by lightning or fireworks. The view of the ocean in the distance and the colour of the sky is a fine barometer of the changing seasons or time of day in Mumbai. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes the sea is obscured by smog, and sometimes the view is as crisp as anything. June is a particularly interesting time of the year - when the clouds begin to gather in readiness for the monsoon.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Photos:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsvyeHCrVh1uBSGMXJsdaGIU4jLcCP8kshj7DBz5GI9aBakn2g_UfxYE0PUrKogCF-TkPX2dBBsH6roE1yQCZ11W7q6am_Eht8lt8wFs4miLCmxoGcA0jCCza7dVrU_QVfdhWtfTzdRg/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsvyeHCrVh1uBSGMXJsdaGIU4jLcCP8kshj7DBz5GI9aBakn2g_UfxYE0PUrKogCF-TkPX2dBBsH6roE1yQCZ11W7q6am_Eht8lt8wFs4miLCmxoGcA0jCCza7dVrU_QVfdhWtfTzdRg/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+01.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-monsoon and clouds begin to gather</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJIU-vp3HD63qrr0gMjpkFAuVvV8vEDgCfoDQLT9iHc_H9AaSS4qxRxenwow44GMbWL5w-FxeSE_69dEURitklUD635bPPBk4rPOIz2AcxWiHF72z8fQII3bqKh0xLRWkl8ROk0dzwdQ/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJIU-vp3HD63qrr0gMjpkFAuVvV8vEDgCfoDQLT9iHc_H9AaSS4qxRxenwow44GMbWL5w-FxeSE_69dEURitklUD635bPPBk4rPOIz2AcxWiHF72z8fQII3bqKh0xLRWkl8ROk0dzwdQ/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+02.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2013 at 1pm and the view is crisp and the trees are a lush green </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7AA0OIg63sW6D0YdJXK8s2QSysxkCSLo3v9sFm0kt5QeneXd4Cwl_Mz6rDyY6pNgA7sLsaMDJa-MeBOBi8jf289QFNcDjLTgw2UBsqO1fsW7HUFmZWMMqaDiSxTaUhFOVsLhy4wQKGA/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7AA0OIg63sW6D0YdJXK8s2QSysxkCSLo3v9sFm0kt5QeneXd4Cwl_Mz6rDyY6pNgA7sLsaMDJa-MeBOBi8jf289QFNcDjLTgw2UBsqO1fsW7HUFmZWMMqaDiSxTaUhFOVsLhy4wQKGA/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+03.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The clouds obscure the setting sun at 7.30pm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IC_Wl3_WKdMb0msBGOpNj7awW8K0QhN9PFcksfe3NdLtiiwLM02Ts9WLOuxM-3tH1Bv51Q0wuTVYC-IvA3AlAXQVVr2_Cc3ugRwfdEwJkUpBGd5QC6omZ8ZZ-YiOSkhOsDHn7ByJv50/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IC_Wl3_WKdMb0msBGOpNj7awW8K0QhN9PFcksfe3NdLtiiwLM02Ts9WLOuxM-3tH1Bv51Q0wuTVYC-IvA3AlAXQVVr2_Cc3ugRwfdEwJkUpBGd5QC6omZ8ZZ-YiOSkhOsDHn7ByJv50/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+04.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red sky at night...shepherd's delight (as we say in the UK)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurYLjl2vFXIjr7KW7Fm1PdmIUIWpZ4LlyTCCxYo0eFFI5bg_WCxt1JEOpT85iAMc6KU-99DX6pRDjgs8IOLYXBdR88FLQUgORfntISRJ5tPCUMHDSvuBl6byk6nRNjC1NJgx2DyeV1NA/s1600/DSC_2236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurYLjl2vFXIjr7KW7Fm1PdmIUIWpZ4LlyTCCxYo0eFFI5bg_WCxt1JEOpT85iAMc6KU-99DX6pRDjgs8IOLYXBdR88FLQUgORfntISRJ5tPCUMHDSvuBl6byk6nRNjC1NJgx2DyeV1NA/s1600/DSC_2236.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peekaboo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KGnGikhpE6wB468Z7wCiaBEdY4ugCVuHvGj1Eo8OtlkRnFhooMSzVrSpsTmmha1lCatgovK3JeNotuyrNN7bol0DoAnMQ1BmOI0teTtqVW-9_wxvk3834sdYlbsZ8jRv4EgOtyP7tFc/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KGnGikhpE6wB468Z7wCiaBEdY4ugCVuHvGj1Eo8OtlkRnFhooMSzVrSpsTmmha1lCatgovK3JeNotuyrNN7bol0DoAnMQ1BmOI0teTtqVW-9_wxvk3834sdYlbsZ8jRv4EgOtyP7tFc/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+08.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1.45pm one September 2013 day and the monsoon lingers - the sun desperately tries to <br />
peep out from behind the clouds. Gathering kites speckle the sky.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAi2ZYepUHw6MQXf1Q38PfXvJMZvZfJ8Gr8QbDxgvIhJicgU1-mrMVuLPYuECGypLwGgM5bWMKocCf5_Qc524l0y2TLLa_KoM78derrCmXbNaFlin-8pXGmNU_MbwuOw-7wXI2amGa_M0/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAi2ZYepUHw6MQXf1Q38PfXvJMZvZfJ8Gr8QbDxgvIhJicgU1-mrMVuLPYuECGypLwGgM5bWMKocCf5_Qc524l0y2TLLa_KoM78derrCmXbNaFlin-8pXGmNU_MbwuOw-7wXI2amGa_M0/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+06.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A evening of lightning strikes make the sky a gorgeous purple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuC3Xic78_osmyrlctXD_A4z0HioWzIVVIFEP8F3VLc48zjvStTE_aMQPWbXQVJg3J_JeEwBFDOwcPNX0oCHW7sFdrPMCWrrUZO2TO1lUCLu69xU77vCu0S394kT5ZaL2Q2CvM2P6YUe4/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuC3Xic78_osmyrlctXD_A4z0HioWzIVVIFEP8F3VLc48zjvStTE_aMQPWbXQVJg3J_JeEwBFDOwcPNX0oCHW7sFdrPMCWrrUZO2TO1lUCLu69xU77vCu0S394kT5ZaL2Q2CvM2P6YUe4/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+05.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September 2013 - a pre-rain eerie bluey glow is cast on the buildings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGXGMHAi5iannlNK-8a7iKa0I5_SJZT6-Q9LFguGNeRmN4p3SVuWg_8R_qeu-BFvDTnxorMwe3_TUopWldXHweihCYZhvm6U5Oze_IMPEbAZ3kKM2n_yoEEhSjT98wHn-2QzCentCwvU/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGXGMHAi5iannlNK-8a7iKa0I5_SJZT6-Q9LFguGNeRmN4p3SVuWg_8R_qeu-BFvDTnxorMwe3_TUopWldXHweihCYZhvm6U5Oze_IMPEbAZ3kKM2n_yoEEhSjT98wHn-2QzCentCwvU/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+09.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ganpati celebrations </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIavrxPm09awpO6XE1FbOaaqgEX3_KpayKBvilBbM3pH8ginZ8IOABc_pJgvaPcg_kykBULuxcSyeZf3jvArIQp0FnfmdA40WPRg-mMBacvtF0fvtY2YesNfZ066l2hb54W2QzYpUZpyE/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIavrxPm09awpO6XE1FbOaaqgEX3_KpayKBvilBbM3pH8ginZ8IOABc_pJgvaPcg_kykBULuxcSyeZf3jvArIQp0FnfmdA40WPRg-mMBacvtF0fvtY2YesNfZ066l2hb54W2QzYpUZpyE/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+10.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 2013 - Diwali fireworks light up the block of flats.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcbvAtpRDzNm7avDKsynCiW1tXhl6eI1iV5dP7tFBk-6DatcHqkUvn70rmVyrWP_tOWLJZNpkHl-GsCcH4CU6vKn21kLRKXMTyvWscIy00E7EEwBw1Y20GMiB4meL4SXDnaeuyfmukko/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcbvAtpRDzNm7avDKsynCiW1tXhl6eI1iV5dP7tFBk-6DatcHqkUvn70rmVyrWP_tOWLJZNpkHl-GsCcH4CU6vKn21kLRKXMTyvWscIy00E7EEwBw1Y20GMiB4meL4SXDnaeuyfmukko/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+11.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 2013 - the weather is cooler but the sea is almost obscured by the rising mist that <br />
helps to make Mumbai smoggy-ish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFre2VbBrIcxY2gc2JymaJesKMLz7xqtGxc4YRn5M7sDBH-41Ukafxagtt9nvRpXc3iIFR9BTuyLG0b0QO3-yy5mATM7CpewM4gPSzh3zAjtmHNvcJmba4oNd-TX-l83EWzobuRQY5olo/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFre2VbBrIcxY2gc2JymaJesKMLz7xqtGxc4YRn5M7sDBH-41Ukafxagtt9nvRpXc3iIFR9BTuyLG0b0QO3-yy5mATM7CpewM4gPSzh3zAjtmHNvcJmba4oNd-TX-l83EWzobuRQY5olo/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+12.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The same day - the sunset is poor and sea is invisible</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4_2hMEGaZVy538TOKt56NKyYUO0jlPZhIMGhb2EeqWrfzIckA5DAgXcYHyZrFfIBAvQxG-HJW7RS64daEY6TH-T6iPNlZDNiDH8Wym24BPznSCX8RGyDgbhR494xTH8tG-ryO6qEyi0/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4_2hMEGaZVy538TOKt56NKyYUO0jlPZhIMGhb2EeqWrfzIckA5DAgXcYHyZrFfIBAvQxG-HJW7RS64daEY6TH-T6iPNlZDNiDH8Wym24BPznSCX8RGyDgbhR494xTH8tG-ryO6qEyi0/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+13.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">February 2014 - one of many stunning sunsets I have witnessed from our balcony</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7WLSOkFfMz10F8G_nwDnAsOJlyaVC5W9e6gfAES2FWu0tLrGi1WdiYU2pC-p4aM3PIwVQhLztMHZrXnwpQASXcam485UqWWK0MOwZ8jmfto-bB9aPe7S2lWOF2YPIBkUvE7EjptMXpQ/s1600/DSC_2233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7WLSOkFfMz10F8G_nwDnAsOJlyaVC5W9e6gfAES2FWu0tLrGi1WdiYU2pC-p4aM3PIwVQhLztMHZrXnwpQASXcam485UqWWK0MOwZ8jmfto-bB9aPe7S2lWOF2YPIBkUvE7EjptMXpQ/s1600/DSC_2233.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scene today! So crisp!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinavWEiYUC7hchxGeEatOESfS_QedFLR1hWyuX6WDMz3dn56M20lv_2mdLJ2_elf_zk02ShB-1Vf4BZR5-dDoL3DMBMyfQDhsgr0eJDMZVl9TkYSNajJjmXHA_Sj7AO4jVn40snnZKkr4/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinavWEiYUC7hchxGeEatOESfS_QedFLR1hWyuX6WDMz3dn56M20lv_2mdLJ2_elf_zk02ShB-1Vf4BZR5-dDoL3DMBMyfQDhsgr0eJDMZVl9TkYSNajJjmXHA_Sj7AO4jVn40snnZKkr4/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+14.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another pre-monsoon eerie glow at about 7.30pm last Sunday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSXsBZ_DgijQIqSX7clleROQE8f1M-dp9-EfWlI8ElZVnu5U9c5Nm8JltNC1cS3y3wXHlrsIjdApEl5WlYm6NLv1LOS2v637NTnKCeM4HzlhnQUvcfEIfSn1VPNZamANoEdWL7Q88N_78/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSXsBZ_DgijQIqSX7clleROQE8f1M-dp9-EfWlI8ElZVnu5U9c5Nm8JltNC1cS3y3wXHlrsIjdApEl5WlYm6NLv1LOS2v637NTnKCeM4HzlhnQUvcfEIfSn1VPNZamANoEdWL7Q88N_78/s1600/Arabian+Ocean+View+-+07.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From last year - a snap of lightning from the balcony at the back of the apartment - unfortunately I couldn't get such a picture of lightning over the sea.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Update: 13/06/14 - The dramatic scene last night as a monsoon cloud drifts by, dragging rain over the sea but not coming inland.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJvRc_SVvuXne5Kiuj9PCnvXdHPbh_h4IyRforvlPgCEOTZHBI0PDZdQkRrrDwCO5g07Azy8yfPNSodd3qViYTrNLl9tz-Ax-ElJCe83wFG0NdqgraZkwzXJkHhH3zwt7bW1VcMN-Lxs/s1600/DSC_2243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJvRc_SVvuXne5Kiuj9PCnvXdHPbh_h4IyRforvlPgCEOTZHBI0PDZdQkRrrDwCO5g07Azy8yfPNSodd3qViYTrNLl9tz-Ax-ElJCe83wFG0NdqgraZkwzXJkHhH3zwt7bW1VcMN-Lxs/s1600/DSC_2243.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-83088025097776654472014-06-06T17:22:00.003+05:302014-06-10T13:50:55.185+05:30The Raj Company (and a brush with the Mumbai Mirror!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When the Mumbai Mirror recently requested to interview me about antiques hunting, they asked if they could meet me in Chor Bazaar for an photo opportunity. Well you know how much I love Chor Bazaar...but you also know that with temperatures around 40 degrees and rising humidity in Mumbai, I was likely to end up fainting and embarrassing myself. That's when I suggested that we meet at The Raj Company in Mahalaxmi - with its huge open display rooms of high quality, original and reproduction antiques, and a ground floor full of as-yet unrestored pieces. Especially as I was in the market for a new bed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGUdPbCDhqhRiBVopSzMGpU69Blwap3_qZLS0_LrhY3ZRgj8Eibsv054g0lGbYsZYpi5pZAxZ4YJ5zzjREAgDYr6RTO-d8OJWxBo9HV_eXxSE0yKuVWZB0wjPTyfH2Dn7I1aS4ZyDcTM/s1600/DSC_2027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGUdPbCDhqhRiBVopSzMGpU69Blwap3_qZLS0_LrhY3ZRgj8Eibsv054g0lGbYsZYpi5pZAxZ4YJ5zzjREAgDYr6RTO-d8OJWxBo9HV_eXxSE0yKuVWZB0wjPTyfH2Dn7I1aS4ZyDcTM/s1600/DSC_2027.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the bed I fell in love with. They erected it outside so that I could get a good look. Expect to pay over 1 lakh (£1,000/$1,500) for this type of model (this one is reproduction and an American queen size). I thought the price was very reasonable - it's all solid teak with a finely crafted rattan headboard.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I went to The Raj Company premises a bit ahead of time to have a look around (I had already asked their permission to be interviewed there by the paper). The manager, Rohaan Lamba, showed me into his lovely office - full of interesting antiques and decorative objects (and more importantly, air conditioning!). Then he proceeded to explain some of the services that his company provides. <br />
<br />
I was well aware of The Raj Company's ability to produce the most popular colonial and Indian furniture designs (as well as restoring the original pieces that you will find on the ground floor). But what I did not know, is that the company can actually reproduce just about <i>any</i> design of furniture you can think of. Rohaan showed me a stunning coffee table book by top New York interior designer <a href="http://www.tomscheerer.com/" target="_blank">Tom Scheerer</a> - which was full of specially commissioned furniture made by Raj. I saw pictures of beautiful Chinoiserie chairs, contemporary side teak side tables, conservatory furniture, enormous dining tables in bleached wood etc etc. Such diversity! Later, Rohaan showed me a room containing their latest commission - by the trendy Soho House London which opens later this year in Mumbai. The style is a sort of funky English gentleman's club - classic furniture with a twist and I particularly liked the yellow leather dining chairs. The ability to simulate and reproduce to order and with such craftsmanship really impressed me - and all <i>you</i> have to do is provide a sketch or a reference image.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTAYRpo_HbFSy4G0E6UeCxqgM_y0r9j7oyBPyvcO5Si3gqEsV-hb2uq2LcRXAf4B3gFfZxJ8UG9YmQModz2qsUXpDgWrTtkPW75vfVblKime6lLfRyPofhOyF9h2EcxUlAGLRHX_Xza8/s1600/DSC_1996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTAYRpo_HbFSy4G0E6UeCxqgM_y0r9j7oyBPyvcO5Si3gqEsV-hb2uq2LcRXAf4B3gFfZxJ8UG9YmQModz2qsUXpDgWrTtkPW75vfVblKime6lLfRyPofhOyF9h2EcxUlAGLRHX_Xza8/s1600/DSC_1996.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some wood samples to show the kind of non-standard finishes that can be achieved. Underneath - Tom Scheerer's coffee table book containing many pictures of Raj Company work.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the top floor of the Mahalaxmi property is, literally, bedroom heaven. I have never seen anything like it - a room full of antique four poster beds! There are lots of styles to choose from, and if you don't find what you like or a size that suits, specialist carpenters will of course, make it for you to order. I particularly liked the original opium beds with their ornate sides, the colonial teak style with four shorter 'twisty' posts at the corners and anything in precious rosewood. The only problem would be...which one to choose!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuWIJIn-68Z-LqFMyr8vc4C9WwqFwp3C84eXqxgiSH5CPow3B7pWx2jIYj1eKtLr4GXChwqA_F5GS7mf0WETEul6RM5s7khtYtbrVnHyoCap2KnwigEOOLDxHJuLxbNbXQxDx1-xpNAQ/s1600/DSC_1985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuWIJIn-68Z-LqFMyr8vc4C9WwqFwp3C84eXqxgiSH5CPow3B7pWx2jIYj1eKtLr4GXChwqA_F5GS7mf0WETEul6RM5s7khtYtbrVnHyoCap2KnwigEOOLDxHJuLxbNbXQxDx1-xpNAQ/s1600/DSC_1985.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bed heaven!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After our little chat and a tour of the premises, the Mumbai Mirror reporter and photographer arrived. Thankfully, we were allowed to sit in the air-conditioned office for the interview, as it was quite stuffy outside and I was already beginning to feel uncomfortable. After the interview, I spent the next 30 minutes trying to strike a pose for the photographer (difficult as I hate my photo being taken!). I hung off four poster beds like an idiot, I lent on chests of drawers with my hands under my chin looking pensive, and I stood holding up ancient artefacts whilst trying to look glamorous. As you can see from the clipping below, I wasn't entirely successful! (Note, this is the first time my picture has appeared anywhere in connection with my blog. Ta Da... Big Reveal!).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTcsqzTtVgjavpF7jm6X4nBZVxOp74kd9T_3eZrwEPhIZBJfeoXlq_9PgD1cKVRo1BNHJf1w3Y_q7Ghkcw-BHlj4soP60G3PtiHc-CXVJcgaKVYUt3VgB7z-Ex9ecZHEh9E1VEmYCLnU/s1600/DSC_2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTcsqzTtVgjavpF7jm6X4nBZVxOp74kd9T_3eZrwEPhIZBJfeoXlq_9PgD1cKVRo1BNHJf1w3Y_q7Ghkcw-BHlj4soP60G3PtiHc-CXVJcgaKVYUt3VgB7z-Ex9ecZHEh9E1VEmYCLnU/s1600/DSC_2006.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No this is not BombayJules....but I think I was more successful at getting the photographer to pose<br />
than he was getting me to pose!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Many thanks to the Raj Company for putting up with me for so long that day...and to the Mumbai Mirror for our little bit of fun.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKK9DiraWqeeKzCmVsoUjcMT1o0MBbsIGqcNXQynbwYedIZpzjj8wEyWLfGCmVWoBKn46pzG44HYk-RkKGO-sAuHb9kvz515G3jbmJDC0e8DDlnhfx7rcmdthIO_u4RHFZruQUA_swaGQ/s1600/DSC_1953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKK9DiraWqeeKzCmVsoUjcMT1o0MBbsIGqcNXQynbwYedIZpzjj8wEyWLfGCmVWoBKn46pzG44HYk-RkKGO-sAuHb9kvz515G3jbmJDC0e8DDlnhfx7rcmdthIO_u4RHFZruQUA_swaGQ/s1600/DSC_1953.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical opium bed back left.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8w-keeuvtLGKdEpxJpR-B9MIb10g0QZcD-AJgeq_YHJsi2yb7sJmlYqeSUPVrnLtAP9RJvzaXPRvYGXt_ULLDpoieHTXS-nTQhbDkxko9NH98P6aq0Fenmmxcy_s47BxQ2Ebha8r2giQ/s1600/DSC_1954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8w-keeuvtLGKdEpxJpR-B9MIb10g0QZcD-AJgeq_YHJsi2yb7sJmlYqeSUPVrnLtAP9RJvzaXPRvYGXt_ULLDpoieHTXS-nTQhbDkxko9NH98P6aq0Fenmmxcy_s47BxQ2Ebha8r2giQ/s1600/DSC_1954.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A room full of card tables!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1FEy1tJCYzd6qdzeUKgBircuTamU6j0HYL1vREQU1fEt8v_sCWolmubckP_Y-GpA1b_mY9m6Y64LkNQ_u4iie-EHoD2eRTmqvpCPKDJjMziZIhpE6-DWtCsHbaG6Y519ptZPaeYRvFU/s1600/DSC_1958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1FEy1tJCYzd6qdzeUKgBircuTamU6j0HYL1vREQU1fEt8v_sCWolmubckP_Y-GpA1b_mY9m6Y64LkNQ_u4iie-EHoD2eRTmqvpCPKDJjMziZIhpE6-DWtCsHbaG6Y519ptZPaeYRvFU/s1600/DSC_1958.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campaign desk - commissioned by Soho House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUnH7cbq8Tbw4xolCFBhxOxE474VHlgCWyhg2QCs73QqAIeoCdgbnyXESCxzL2aQu16y1bAg8kiBD5PkFlr1SFzKZP9x9O0K40enNEV2WGjaOnRwV-mktjVnH5eQsfPx97v3J6n5xQsM/s1600/DSC_1960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHUnH7cbq8Tbw4xolCFBhxOxE474VHlgCWyhg2QCs73QqAIeoCdgbnyXESCxzL2aQu16y1bAg8kiBD5PkFlr1SFzKZP9x9O0K40enNEV2WGjaOnRwV-mktjVnH5eQsfPx97v3J6n5xQsM/s1600/DSC_1960.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is not the typical furniture you will find at Raj Company but you will be able to find bone inlay furniture such as this in one of the rooms. Very popular in the UK right now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKik6AE32UIHHnj103_hkkHqoa7VOwLRF-mxAq1mmpeJXeCIWS283ojdU7JctYc8DYKwG1hAi9Fen23yR7RzAuHDUw8mPX_Pi2ye9AHphvY1zgWpI4FX8pkJwaUBDxSmU0brGFWKXQyo/s1600/DSC_1962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKik6AE32UIHHnj103_hkkHqoa7VOwLRF-mxAq1mmpeJXeCIWS283ojdU7JctYc8DYKwG1hAi9Fen23yR7RzAuHDUw8mPX_Pi2ye9AHphvY1zgWpI4FX8pkJwaUBDxSmU0brGFWKXQyo/s1600/DSC_1962.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A badly photographed repro campaign chest - around Rs 79,000. This model of chest is also very sought after.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSOk10HIWA-786U74gbwzFSPcAnI5g9ROChWL55_QkVBeCy5oI_m2Aszkgaas5Q0etTbHPtWwcA_iV_eXT0gASsXakIctmVy__hrWAJC0uo558t3gsFIFGbWwl7RAiTQeL6emPfvHtcw/s1600/DSC_1963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSOk10HIWA-786U74gbwzFSPcAnI5g9ROChWL55_QkVBeCy5oI_m2Aszkgaas5Q0etTbHPtWwcA_iV_eXT0gASsXakIctmVy__hrWAJC0uo558t3gsFIFGbWwl7RAiTQeL6emPfvHtcw/s1600/DSC_1963.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original door sourced from Rajasthan which can be converted into huge coffee tables - very popular with expats!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNh8cT-wZqkLBEVWslkF28b-uoM8hdw3wBgUjOP4Duj_1w3P-t-L9I_qDF8sGSRegrQPX-EEp1IW2fdtec4XgvbjspaEwb-CKbYF8sLADzXJxMLksfoQIiAaA1WCdQIbHJ1COxamYUtw/s1600/DSC_1965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcNh8cT-wZqkLBEVWslkF28b-uoM8hdw3wBgUjOP4Duj_1w3P-t-L9I_qDF8sGSRegrQPX-EEp1IW2fdtec4XgvbjspaEwb-CKbYF8sLADzXJxMLksfoQIiAaA1WCdQIbHJ1COxamYUtw/s1600/DSC_1965.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful colonial chairs.....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1weXImEzc4Cs7YQFo9KmUWwv4izxlMpb7YlEHgx0VyNkuJyEuxv7iEjqdM7wpDeh0dGO0Y8GuX2kvThXnYUKmge4MRmCZk4GfkJrrnxRMNwVA3uBKrHQKtDpiowMklEu_kPzqGMP7jY/s1600/DSC_1967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1weXImEzc4Cs7YQFo9KmUWwv4izxlMpb7YlEHgx0VyNkuJyEuxv7iEjqdM7wpDeh0dGO0Y8GuX2kvThXnYUKmge4MRmCZk4GfkJrrnxRMNwVA3uBKrHQKtDpiowMklEu_kPzqGMP7jY/s1600/DSC_1967.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....and the most popular of planter chairs, the Bombay Fornicator!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ae_NzBr8guxJ1K-xWRnaRl40lBCYlWdRU_ExIEW7eP7pvMJic6dAGswtBRAFGUKiZa6SOKvlwvi1xCSKHms6r6ntkxhACuHXvKIdL01879ZMzUgepiM-ca8VX-H5B2_yFEN-U3Kd96o/s1600/DSC_1968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ae_NzBr8guxJ1K-xWRnaRl40lBCYlWdRU_ExIEW7eP7pvMJic6dAGswtBRAFGUKiZa6SOKvlwvi1xCSKHms6r6ntkxhACuHXvKIdL01879ZMzUgepiM-ca8VX-H5B2_yFEN-U3Kd96o/s1600/DSC_1968.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoiJVJvaTRa3Ds_UZ7Y6FeKqGwhO-6sKxPe7ThBurnO1Rx6ZD38Qc-VPVlIIh1_4RnLZbFkb3mciUImAPPtZKKKLDzFjFeoEGSb-95gIvAO_Rw4_hOwrIDUyMGSS0VO-gUotm9y9poJ4s/s1600/DSC_1969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoiJVJvaTRa3Ds_UZ7Y6FeKqGwhO-6sKxPe7ThBurnO1Rx6ZD38Qc-VPVlIIh1_4RnLZbFkb3mciUImAPPtZKKKLDzFjFeoEGSb-95gIvAO_Rw4_hOwrIDUyMGSS0VO-gUotm9y9poJ4s/s1600/DSC_1969.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selection of furniture being commissioned by Soho House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLWJI6kd8GDZAS4EHbTLO4bSfPFZfimxLmdVUvAvPTZrf-wLE-n4gFhE8y3LEh9h4KbJ674xlwj8LRqCgq55Saui5gisiazfmCQlM_gvF3JT4ZlDqfW3pFVdQEss3TLB8J2BwzdOsxGA/s1600/DSC_1971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLWJI6kd8GDZAS4EHbTLO4bSfPFZfimxLmdVUvAvPTZrf-wLE-n4gFhE8y3LEh9h4KbJ674xlwj8LRqCgq55Saui5gisiazfmCQlM_gvF3JT4ZlDqfW3pFVdQEss3TLB8J2BwzdOsxGA/s1600/DSC_1971.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this chair!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4KN_CpSnFfA4-6T91jwi1IC91sQMdeY9KZ-_ccTjkA95MdUpB771zi8KmqQzBk6LVDwnRLctLWUgR9wZeqgaCzNc9Yenw1FFOjxHYHhwmN_nbM02kkGwAcq3Y2YAeNvaQpaQmBsIBY4/s1600/DSC_1973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4KN_CpSnFfA4-6T91jwi1IC91sQMdeY9KZ-_ccTjkA95MdUpB771zi8KmqQzBk6LVDwnRLctLWUgR9wZeqgaCzNc9Yenw1FFOjxHYHhwmN_nbM02kkGwAcq3Y2YAeNvaQpaQmBsIBY4/s1600/DSC_1973.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'chair room' with a selection of models that you can reproduce to your own taste/upholstery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfCLCyxB3JsxIQbBM_viSIVxObc5MstHhhU288CZA-3GwAWSDD87PS4xrsisRzKzGHovkS4XLVM-IUphJlF5WKZQ07wrhb7La3gPcEMDYf-NpGMsDnN_eNV5RdIl1JC2aingkXB2FNBc/s1600/DSC_1974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinfCLCyxB3JsxIQbBM_viSIVxObc5MstHhhU288CZA-3GwAWSDD87PS4xrsisRzKzGHovkS4XLVM-IUphJlF5WKZQ07wrhb7La3gPcEMDYf-NpGMsDnN_eNV5RdIl1JC2aingkXB2FNBc/s1600/DSC_1974.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More of bedroom heaven - rosewood four poster and cabinet in the foreground</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO56BEd_Y6Pqv9-3_UpPpNH9c8Vv5SIZTc5VHmYCFEjw4xcqj22W1qFVPXTIblTC9ciCah-UxZtb-H35u34ygiSdQAPieArQrRjU_jMyF463wSL8nc-1BW3A5v4J39OEoz0iqAQGMf6cM/s1600/DSC_1976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO56BEd_Y6Pqv9-3_UpPpNH9c8Vv5SIZTc5VHmYCFEjw4xcqj22W1qFVPXTIblTC9ciCah-UxZtb-H35u34ygiSdQAPieArQrRjU_jMyF463wSL8nc-1BW3A5v4J39OEoz0iqAQGMf6cM/s1600/DSC_1976.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love the carved twisty posts on this bed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUOFc2vGMTJ9Qryl5lto9KsZ-7lDcY4q69lSSvfOgTGvJ0hqPDu-9iqwKBj40QIYUF4bNYATTdCAan98WXVQgVXeqJnTJ2uN2tnID_-zC6tbRzV9BY2enRdF_OlvqgrTZlxBOSFM8g4s/s1600/DSC_1989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUOFc2vGMTJ9Qryl5lto9KsZ-7lDcY4q69lSSvfOgTGvJ0hqPDu-9iqwKBj40QIYUF4bNYATTdCAan98WXVQgVXeqJnTJ2uN2tnID_-zC6tbRzV9BY2enRdF_OlvqgrTZlxBOSFM8g4s/s1600/DSC_1989.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous arched canopy on this solid teakwood example.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ybg39rAbzMhTkYzeLBK67Gmb5Ju1DnNIfv5z3tlhV9FXqxH0gry1YgnCldnPzuRMf-KDDoJ4fH14Zg20_kaEvxBCRtagKIVMCGWc3rD0t1yhuC1_AjF1oXRCC4QsTihtkStB5lMoqjE/s1600/DSC_1991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ybg39rAbzMhTkYzeLBK67Gmb5Ju1DnNIfv5z3tlhV9FXqxH0gry1YgnCldnPzuRMf-KDDoJ4fH14Zg20_kaEvxBCRtagKIVMCGWc3rD0t1yhuC1_AjF1oXRCC4QsTihtkStB5lMoqjE/s1600/DSC_1991.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fab art deco headboard but the feet don't really go.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18qRyvlsKeU8yd-7l9iDaKZvB60jIIuKMK-YOwc8t8Jkk24QOlHk2LHvH6J__mjFfbClm24c-SLmzMWA7FL9MgGFiq3Cg-oNCNNjwOSnDgj4BrVfYs7IQErGh4G8gx8acPwGpWw_Oci4/s1600/DSC_1993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18qRyvlsKeU8yd-7l9iDaKZvB60jIIuKMK-YOwc8t8Jkk24QOlHk2LHvH6J__mjFfbClm24c-SLmzMWA7FL9MgGFiq3Cg-oNCNNjwOSnDgj4BrVfYs7IQErGh4G8gx8acPwGpWw_Oci4/s1600/DSC_1993.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bed in bleached wood - popular for French styled homes and beach houses in the Hamptons!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1N5wTQH8RX6veRCrBdfsPTn7ooxZkN8LFhPGmbgg1J9u0S2gnrX7IW02903iOJNHhjMwDkhSxXW4691lQMqIEeRzkglsO4eeHK6kQYuW8UnkELJ-q1aWzSSfxdl3N62vQXj8QO09yhs/s1600/DSC_1999.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb1N5wTQH8RX6veRCrBdfsPTn7ooxZkN8LFhPGmbgg1J9u0S2gnrX7IW02903iOJNHhjMwDkhSxXW4691lQMqIEeRzkglsO4eeHK6kQYuW8UnkELJ-q1aWzSSfxdl3N62vQXj8QO09yhs/s1600/DSC_1999.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another shot of 'my' bed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbGIZPlALJR1B-6v3xgnWUP8v_XbNy88OG11dn9j3zQVydtq9xNr2cn7vPa-ToTkYXL4zHqNfB6GwX5zyD6fjMrH9devjYJmubsD8NnYRz-GktTXZfez4yMszJJXBxpb21UxwjsZv3ZE/s1600/DSC_2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbGIZPlALJR1B-6v3xgnWUP8v_XbNy88OG11dn9j3zQVydtq9xNr2cn7vPa-ToTkYXL4zHqNfB6GwX5zyD6fjMrH9devjYJmubsD8NnYRz-GktTXZfez4yMszJJXBxpb21UxwjsZv3ZE/s1600/DSC_2000.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Huge bleached wood dining table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DRf3kCkWaRfX-3zpaIRmGsOBGb3i7tbcUNgdorX4HDUD1bjJdCG3TZweMvd9nTDtxLdOS_ZLYGCc9aqLekvZ6lgeahQk8_5CY_UWb7JE0R-Fy1ilviQViz6wtUjAO37GidsAzhiTIo4/s1600/DSC_2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5DRf3kCkWaRfX-3zpaIRmGsOBGb3i7tbcUNgdorX4HDUD1bjJdCG3TZweMvd9nTDtxLdOS_ZLYGCc9aqLekvZ6lgeahQk8_5CY_UWb7JE0R-Fy1ilviQViz6wtUjAO37GidsAzhiTIo4/s1600/DSC_2013.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me photographing you photographing me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzPDCFANZbKCfJtbBfxV0MX6f4qgGdrvLreiU9OQi3olMfAVLCYdytk86RjhuX1RWKY4sPW5B3a9Az_8h_5CEcJMr-eGt2CwqlLisoAVSqkuKWUku2nm6JhY9zOX2eOp7Zvhg3gTS4bA/s1600/DSC_2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzPDCFANZbKCfJtbBfxV0MX6f4qgGdrvLreiU9OQi3olMfAVLCYdytk86RjhuX1RWKY4sPW5B3a9Az_8h_5CEcJMr-eGt2CwqlLisoAVSqkuKWUku2nm6JhY9zOX2eOp7Zvhg3gTS4bA/s1600/DSC_2016.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG880DExR9tnaucvxXz5WXIKT0o5UPv1pfnDxsWjE5ImvdMdosoBC0dGntxigBmIPtNl0qlOwmofw02m1j8DBLJdf2x7obKiYRrNCLCHRTM17u7XtX8uHm5z1HRBN1YxH-5dWtG30liNI/s1600/DSC_2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG880DExR9tnaucvxXz5WXIKT0o5UPv1pfnDxsWjE5ImvdMdosoBC0dGntxigBmIPtNl0qlOwmofw02m1j8DBLJdf2x7obKiYRrNCLCHRTM17u7XtX8uHm5z1HRBN1YxH-5dWtG30liNI/s1600/DSC_2018.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the ground floor - a rummager's paradise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQ9Ziroo9LRxAWdMBTubleqnZqXl0sJGIFd3lzii4ccRssV4bLCGUGDE0MBY1d5hhk-DculFRPdtQMujwYh5uHI6dHy-BWhult2qkmpfXE1nJ5h3T9oTKh90J_cd-Z-3BVD05JKjfOEk/s1600/DSC_2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQ9Ziroo9LRxAWdMBTubleqnZqXl0sJGIFd3lzii4ccRssV4bLCGUGDE0MBY1d5hhk-DculFRPdtQMujwYh5uHI6dHy-BWhult2qkmpfXE1nJ5h3T9oTKh90J_cd-Z-3BVD05JKjfOEk/s1600/DSC_2020.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Deco sofa suite, just waiting for you to customise it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_9JH6T1cn5LlavLGEPyswfiekENOjUOSxaSm-8z7U2bhshrKgvckrN2nz2eNpdgaNtaE_lDjb6WfePuv1qUWRIiBmqfex-_lfh5Hkm00k5ZYI7R6EP3sSD5QPiBn0MryW2TC7hF1VUc/s1600/DSC_2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD_9JH6T1cn5LlavLGEPyswfiekENOjUOSxaSm-8z7U2bhshrKgvckrN2nz2eNpdgaNtaE_lDjb6WfePuv1qUWRIiBmqfex-_lfh5Hkm00k5ZYI7R6EP3sSD5QPiBn0MryW2TC7hF1VUc/s1600/DSC_2021.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW589p1zV3Dv3ZO20jmkI_uue9g5bRMEAsIjb7LWlWsxrI6baeYPnR4Qu2Y-KbQWd381qj1FwOTYSFr9zKfkPUeLFpG2pnQ989PSQAivC1lbd-kD6uxPDRpp2tZnImkGz-a6nWj_4tXBQ/s1600/DSC01950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW589p1zV3Dv3ZO20jmkI_uue9g5bRMEAsIjb7LWlWsxrI6baeYPnR4Qu2Y-KbQWd381qj1FwOTYSFr9zKfkPUeLFpG2pnQ989PSQAivC1lbd-kD6uxPDRpp2tZnImkGz-a6nWj_4tXBQ/s1600/DSC01950.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They chose a photo of me with a cheesy smile....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1KHwOdKn0Z5aQg2fuLLsIPnddO8MsI2vS8S4qehGh2KBu-KlNlDs6T0r192m-5Te638-27g-cyzAbaJhMts9QVvnksjx_Eo9fsMrsmfIuASjB2d9QKD0T07c8iOtCRwZ5k6TZow-hN0/s1600/DSC01951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1KHwOdKn0Z5aQg2fuLLsIPnddO8MsI2vS8S4qehGh2KBu-KlNlDs6T0r192m-5Te638-27g-cyzAbaJhMts9QVvnksjx_Eo9fsMrsmfIuASjB2d9QKD0T07c8iOtCRwZ5k6TZow-hN0/s1600/DSC01951.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....but I get to share column space with Salman Rushdie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the online article, follow <a href="http://www.mumbaimirror.com/others/sunday-read/Field-day-Antiquing-in-Jogeshwari/articleshow/35855766.cms" target="_blank">this link</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAliXlCgN7MAS2X6sO14OX_dEXO51cTBlCTp7nInL-u5KpfzBfJbx5xyb8W35HV77iAXCAPAOQ1QKpgYxlLqn2AnjA25qVkJp8ZXFl5kxjlaVitnD1fHxQDyPHpxw5ZGyXHM7XM-VcFZ4/s1600/DSC_2029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAliXlCgN7MAS2X6sO14OX_dEXO51cTBlCTp7nInL-u5KpfzBfJbx5xyb8W35HV77iAXCAPAOQ1QKpgYxlLqn2AnjA25qVkJp8ZXFl5kxjlaVitnD1fHxQDyPHpxw5ZGyXHM7XM-VcFZ4/s1600/DSC_2029.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The Raj Company</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1-C, K, Khadye Marg</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Opposite Race Course</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mahalaxmi</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mumbai 400 034</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tel +91 (22) 2354 2626</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Email rohaan@therajcompany.com</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.therajcompany.com/">www.therajcompany.com</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>For bespoke instructions, speak to Rohaan Lamba</i></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-51713616317833774832014-05-14T11:57:00.004+05:302014-05-14T17:25:34.227+05:30My A-Z of Mumbai Shopping<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After my A-Z guides to Mumbai Places and Food, I give you the BombayJules A-Z Guide to Mumbai Shopping. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Note:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>1) Please follow the links for location information and further details</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>2) Do bear in mind that these are my personal choices (with the exception of Nature's Basket)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>3) Regular readers will know that I have a particular passion for antiques and interiors, so apologies for the bias!</i></span><br />
<i>4) These outlets mostly highlight products originating in India</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>A</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the most hidden antiques stores in Mumbai is </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://mumbaiboss.com/2011/01/06/antiques-at-anemos/" target="_blank">Anemos</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> in Raghuvanshi Mills (near the big Good Earth shop). Anemos is actually a store retailing high quality ceiling fans, but if you ask the staff in there nicely, they will take you up to a first floor showroom filled with a wonderful array of teak furniture and Indian antiquities sourced from all over India.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.anokhi.com/" target="_blank">Anokhi</a></b> is my preferred choice for ethnic clothes shopping - a store selling Jaipur hand block-printed quilts, tablecloths, women's, men's and children's clothes. Extra large sizes are available and the prices are excellent! I recently bought a top for my mum for 1,100 Rs (£11/$16) which I later saw being retailed in a UK branch of 'East' for £59! (Rs 5,900/$90). Great place to stock up on non-tacky Indian themed presents to take back home. Branches in Chowpatty and Waterfield Road, Bandra.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9dxx-xfyaFvnagfTeiXKyTBtFu6ABbARIOJdPXTsxj6vnyjZP2bB0y9pqY7yAsrp6do_Lz5ekjfWcoKamy5-ttOxXz4IiyzFfKipmq2KQIvrhKJ2Oz7iDvPfcTGqzZaehTXnd_4iqpU/s1600/tn_3241_anokhi1-1372915620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9dxx-xfyaFvnagfTeiXKyTBtFu6ABbARIOJdPXTsxj6vnyjZP2bB0y9pqY7yAsrp6do_Lz5ekjfWcoKamy5-ttOxXz4IiyzFfKipmq2KQIvrhKJ2Oz7iDvPfcTGqzZaehTXnd_4iqpU/s1600/tn_3241_anokhi1-1372915620.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous printed dresses at Anokhi (photo: sodelhi.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For costume jewellery lovers, there is <b><a href="http://www.tribebyamrapali.com/?gclid=CJXL9tHdqL4CFRWSjgodfZUAng" target="_blank">Amrapali</a></b> - a favourite of Bollywood stars and a certain expat I know - MaximumCityMadam. Interesting designs in hammered gold is a speciality, punctuated with semi precious stones. Also find pretty special silver pieces - which is unusual for a gold-loving city! Branches in Juhu and T2 at Mumbai Airport.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>B</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A big hit with the wealthy set (and expats) is the </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/11/the-big-door-mumbai-interiors-jewellery.html" target="_blank">Big Door</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> in Bandra. Here you will find a glorious selection of jewellery handcrafted in Jaipur as well as Rajasthani artefacts and furniture - all housed in a huge, beautifully laid out showroom on two floors. You can't miss the store - the entrance is the biggest pair of green doors you have ever seen in your life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePQ18SMWYN_IVWaD7Aa6QSgSjh7LvMY95VEqqzHyHS2h8ksQCwuovu73BZFZGFdjg1Q6I4Grcg2iIl_2HasTmTry9ELujUa1z23iy0ZFGqG_5G_f5vFmN77w8nQvGeGJBpahMc1jT7zM/s1600/The+Big+Door+Mumbai+-+40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePQ18SMWYN_IVWaD7Aa6QSgSjh7LvMY95VEqqzHyHS2h8ksQCwuovu73BZFZGFdjg1Q6I4Grcg2iIl_2HasTmTry9ELujUa1z23iy0ZFGqG_5G_f5vFmN77w8nQvGeGJBpahMc1jT7zM/s1600/The+Big+Door+Mumbai+-+40.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
More eclectic and worldly is <b><a href="http://bungaloweight.com/comingsoon/" target="_blank">Bungalow 8</a></b> in Colaba - a lifestyle store that also sells women's clothing and accessories. I like the slightly industrial feel to some of the furnishings on offer.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>C</b></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">So many Cs, so little time! All my favourites are here. First off is </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/shop-camelot-colonial-antique-furniture.html" target="_blank">Camelot</a> </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">- a wonderful antiques store housed in a gorgeous old villa in Kemps Corner. Good quality furniture and realistic prices means there is always something new to view. Everything is in a finished state so can be delivered immediately (unlike most of the antiques haunts in Mumbai). Keep an eye out for the sales when there is a clear out of stock with up to 30% off.</span><br />
<br />
<b style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/12/shop-contemporary-arts-crafts-mumbai.html" target="_blank">Contemporary Arts & Crafts</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> (CAC) in Fort is going to be your most original bet for interesting, quality gifts and Indian crafted items for your home. Colourful quilts, lacquered kitchenware, wooden and brass objet, stationery, jewellery, scarves, small items of furniture, lamps and paintings are all here. You need a good 30 minutes to browse!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjua51b4-2WZLpowj7jq7ErwIwfHfvr6YBa259eJB61HPGb16JdlL1Gz9sNUCHz40u80V95t6QZ7S3Er0nnhuhPMcpLOIMG0YhGxVR2rSNxgOfWM_mvstM32BlQGU6oSg9C4qjUZCudEkE/s1600/2012-12-18+CAC+&+Pali+Bhavan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjua51b4-2WZLpowj7jq7ErwIwfHfvr6YBa259eJB61HPGb16JdlL1Gz9sNUCHz40u80V95t6QZ7S3Er0nnhuhPMcpLOIMG0YhGxVR2rSNxgOfWM_mvstM32BlQGU6oSg9C4qjUZCudEkE/s1600/2012-12-18+CAC+&+Pali+Bhavan.jpg" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">I have been to <b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/11/shop-bombay-paperie-v-chimanlals.html" target="_blank">Chimanlals</a></b> so many times that I must surely own shares in that company by now. Every time I open a cupboard in my apartment, something from Chimanlals falls out! Heavenly handmade stationery is cheap and abundant at this store in Fort. It's a bit old fashioned but that's part of the charm. You can fill a whole bag with gorgeous cards, gift tags, notebooks, colourful wrapping paper and writing paper for less than an English tenner. And I love the desk calendars they bring out every year for a mere 125 Rs.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>D</b></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I have to mention </span><b style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Deepaks</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> - the wine shop on Pali Market in Bandra. It's kept us in Sula wine, Kingfisher lager and even Shepherd Neame ales for the last two years. I wouldn't go so far as to say you get service with a smile but every time we have called up for even just one bottle, it's been delivered to us within a few minutes (and with a complimentary packet of spicy snacks!) Very efficient!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">For the home, </span><a href="http://www.dhoop.co.in/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><b>Dhoop</b></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> is a pretty decent home accessories shop in Khar retailing lovely candles, floor lamps and other handcrafted items from all over India. Prices are very reasonable.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>E</b></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Blink and you'd miss </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/05/eastern-treasure-home-furnishings-mumbai.html" target="_blank">Eastern Treasure</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> which is located on Hill Road in a building above Playclan and Lakme Salon. In my view, this is the perfect store in which to find furniture and accessories for the bachelor pad. Designs are distinctly with a British Gentlemen's Club feel and I love the 1930s style aviator and trunk desks and leather sofas. There is no other such shop catering to blokes in Mumbai.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcMqt8W9tOJ_rxnSF3MRfapz55r0YM6O8LE01BPhymnAhPwViEek_J0Jz9QXtdd1XPzpzAs3_P1OyXW3L0f24Ckd7t10GiiZxUw4yjXptbKiM4pZmTcJZkEDrpjNKgQjzUV3AWfxZ6AE/s1600/DSC07386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcMqt8W9tOJ_rxnSF3MRfapz55r0YM6O8LE01BPhymnAhPwViEek_J0Jz9QXtdd1XPzpzAs3_P1OyXW3L0f24Ckd7t10GiiZxUw4yjXptbKiM4pZmTcJZkEDrpjNKgQjzUV3AWfxZ6AE/s1600/DSC07386.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blokey aviator desk at Eastern Treasure (see the same one on Two and a Half Men!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>F</b></i></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">
</span>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My favourite <i>contemporary</i> home accessories store in Mumbai is <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/12/the-freedom-tree-quirky-colourful.html" target="_blank"><b>Freedom Tree</b></a> (branches in Bandra and Lower Parel). Enter the shop and you will be faced with an abundance of colourful quirky textiles, furniture, kitchen goods and smiling staff. I love the cheery Scandi-Japanese inspired prints and the sense of fun. Products are also available to <a href="http://www.freedomtree.in/" target="_blank">order online</a>. </span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-71M0JsNlTLOzeh6RAZQYdMugBglaTU4UjKq8m0K6Q3XvkOGmf8bC_-gFJ09dWPQZamGCAsq7CH0wKszS7fw9DR5oHRmVQ9Kx9J-z4IrAhG6YkVx0q0HdUUA6nkMzkhyKkr9Ik6r09ZE/s1600/Freedom-Tree-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-71M0JsNlTLOzeh6RAZQYdMugBglaTU4UjKq8m0K6Q3XvkOGmf8bC_-gFJ09dWPQZamGCAsq7CH0wKszS7fw9DR5oHRmVQ9Kx9J-z4IrAhG6YkVx0q0HdUUA6nkMzkhyKkr9Ik6r09ZE/s1600/Freedom-Tree-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_315338677"></span><span id="goog_315338678"></span><br />
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>G</i></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.goodearth.in/" target="_blank"><b>Good Earth</b></a> is an interior shopper's paradise and the second home to most expats residing in Mumbai. The design aesthetic is second to none but the prices are to match. My favourite department is the cushion/pillow section (with colourful Indian motifs such as Maharaja figures, tigers and elephants) followed by bedspreads which can cost upwards of Rs 10,000 (£100/$150). But there is no arguing that the collections are stunning and completely luxurious. The proprietor of this chain has sourced the best that India has to offer as well as producing in-house designs. Find everything your home could possible need including western style furniture, lamps, bathroom accessories, stuff for children's rooms/nurseries, mirrors and even clothing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcJuBCRTDhS03puTKh6fMUy0u8jNcUWHQtRMC2AtFGgXEFbjOswLWUFhyFu6T4KjQrg8ARDUtM-kbrEIBGKWWtpFxyEjj8vqjfHosJ50upf58taxDwf7aM84QLo6Xohm3d2cYDVPA7F0/s1600/14_11_collection-horizental-MG-7786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcJuBCRTDhS03puTKh6fMUy0u8jNcUWHQtRMC2AtFGgXEFbjOswLWUFhyFu6T4KjQrg8ARDUtM-kbrEIBGKWWtpFxyEjj8vqjfHosJ50upf58taxDwf7aM84QLo6Xohm3d2cYDVPA7F0/s1600/14_11_collection-horizental-MG-7786.jpg" height="362" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mysore Collection (Photo www.goodearth.in)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>H</i></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're searching for a western-style supermarket then <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/06/my-mumbai-waitrose-joy.html" target="_blank"><b>Hypercity</b></a> should fulfil your needs. It's just a shame it is so far from Bandra or South Mumbai. I was quite amazed when I went grocery shopping there - because I found proper tills with moving conveyor belts! The selection of fresh fruit and veg is great - all individually packaged like you would find back home. There is also a Waitrose section selling tinned and bottled goods, pasta and cereals etc (such joy!) and you can buy western cheese, hams, foreign wines etc. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcFGViWf1lf5trm9H0TSttfKMNlVOMkMTNlENgfwJx9jkSWqrhxuAm-MezIcFtz8fCzFVRdD1TvlfpTbDDoDnXjX6DzWh8Yxr8zHuLnZz9hpbqZWmCWZyXUQOxJSMvnpfaErt54gveIE/s1600/DSC07669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcFGViWf1lf5trm9H0TSttfKMNlVOMkMTNlENgfwJx9jkSWqrhxuAm-MezIcFtz8fCzFVRdD1TvlfpTbDDoDnXjX6DzWh8Yxr8zHuLnZz9hpbqZWmCWZyXUQOxJSMvnpfaErt54gveIE/s1600/DSC07669.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waitrose at Hypercity</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>I</i></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For my only purely online entrant, I refer you to India Circus. <b><a href="http://www.indiacircus.com/" target="_blank">India Circus</a></b> is like a more fun, cheaper and younger version of Good Earth. And there is probably good reason for that as it is one of Good Earth's main designers - Krsna Mehta - who struck out alone to set up the concept. In his own words ..."with an all-Indian palette, the India Circus vision juxtaposes India's decadent royal past with her modern urban-scape and even local handicrafts...to offer a refreshingly distinct and vibrant aesthetic"...ooh, stick that in your pipe and smoke it! Again, I am attracted to the cushion covers, but you will find Krsna's colourful prints on everything from bags to Ipad covers to bins and coasters. Love it!</span><br />
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>J</i></b></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/josephs-mumbai-master-butcher.html" target="_blank"><b>Joseph's</b></a> - in my mind, is the best butchers (cold storage) in Mumbai (or perhaps just Bandra, as I don't know much about fresh meat retail in the rest of the city). For two years, I have been recommending this place to every expat who has western expectations of plump chicken breasts, American style steak and Yorkshire Pork roasts. If you don't mind a lecture on God from the owner Anil if he so happens to be there, it's quite a fun experience getting your weekly meat purchases from Joseph's. And it always blows my mind just how many people he employs! (Don't forget to bring your own plastic bag).</span></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>K</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
My favourite bookshop in all of Mumbai is the colonial styled <b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/01/kitab-khana-my-favourite-bombay-bookshop.html" target="_blank">Kitab Khana</a></b> down in Fort. With its wooden balustrades and book-shelving, a marvellous collection of coffee table books and its own cafe, an hour's browse here is wonderful. You will also find row upon row of British classics as well as contemporary Indian writers. Very tasteful selections!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Cj7ji24jHQV7GTDnMyv7TMYWlVH-BPQpCXPK4hhyphenhyphen-DEwONvdlC9zCHDzB0WdaoU4x46sSfo7brZynX2PRE7Ks5HnjTPB5oHwfywWqzK4i-Z4JsyMQ-F3bq6T2hb4c6MwSq6oxCf4vxA/s1600/Kitab-Khana-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Cj7ji24jHQV7GTDnMyv7TMYWlVH-BPQpCXPK4hhyphenhyphen-DEwONvdlC9zCHDzB0WdaoU4x46sSfo7brZynX2PRE7Ks5HnjTPB5oHwfywWqzK4i-Z4JsyMQ-F3bq6T2hb4c6MwSq6oxCf4vxA/s1600/Kitab-Khana-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
Everyone has heard of Anokhi. But not everyone has heard of <b><a href="http://kilol.com/" target="_blank">Kilol</a></b> - a clothing and textiles shop on Turner Road in Bandra that sells traditional hand block-printed items from Jaipur. The design aesthetic is not quite as cool as Anokhi - but I still enjoy shopping for colourful kurtas, dupattas and cushion covers there. Plenty of gift inspiration too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yMijK-9rP2583F0LSCfD1ism29b49jxUodCHwC3m4Z3NXhqoOcZ7AQoh-qpotKD11_a2IAhw_N0kadmNpRyfTY8v5KuquoWG2gKiYsUD5ryH6iILKnkh12MFeotYQYRbgXpbWS1uSyA/s1600/DSC06075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yMijK-9rP2583F0LSCfD1ism29b49jxUodCHwC3m4Z3NXhqoOcZ7AQoh-qpotKD11_a2IAhw_N0kadmNpRyfTY8v5KuquoWG2gKiYsUD5ryH6iILKnkh12MFeotYQYRbgXpbWS1uSyA/s1600/DSC06075.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>L</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
Need a spare part for an old computer? Phone not working? Want to get into CB radio-ing? Then you need to visit <b>Lamington Road</b> (no link - find it near Grant Road station in South Mumbai). Known as the "IT hub of Mumbai" (a bit like Tottenham Court Road in London but not), Lamington Road is a wholesale/retail electronics market. Find computer goods (new and second-hand), electronics, TVs and wireless equipment at rates much lower than MRP. Find old/outdated electronic parts such as transistors, cables, tuners and capacitors. A geek's paradise!</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<a href="https://www.lemillindia.com/Contact-us.jsp" target="_blank"><b>Le Mill</b></a> is an upmarket furniture store housed in a huge old mill in Wadi Bunder (there is also a 'concept store' in Breach Candy). You won't find Indian handicrafts here but if you are looking for Danish designer furniture, rugs, metal lamps and accessories, then this is the place for you. It is owned by glamorous types and caters to glamorous types. Feedback from expats is generally that it's a bit pretentious and very over-priced. We bought our sofa from there which promptly fell apart. Make of that what you will.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>M</i></b></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/12/magnolia-home-furnishing-store-mumbai.html" target="_blank">Magnolia Home Store</a></b> was one of the first furniture shops I reviewed. It was great then and it's still great now. Wooden beds, chairs, stools and sideboards made from upcycled teak; bedcovers; handmade candleholders; seating recovered with Indian textiles. The brainchild of Maulika Gandhi, I liked the fact that this was a 'proper' spacious interiors store with room-sets so you an imagine how things will look. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1j6OTCOatuepH6dYVbSiZnltT7yxaKQShEbABIXxWSJ3SSN-T386ClfgGBVv6SySgjV3bNwy_tk5nI2R8gRhyphenhyphen3hKsRcH0oREuOS5OyVgLL5-BdNC4gODeacQm9IJ9XsuDElEo7ncXkUU/s1600/Magnolia+Home+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1j6OTCOatuepH6dYVbSiZnltT7yxaKQShEbABIXxWSJ3SSN-T386ClfgGBVv6SySgjV3bNwy_tk5nI2R8gRhyphenhyphen3hKsRcH0oREuOS5OyVgLL5-BdNC4gODeacQm9IJ9XsuDElEo7ncXkUU/s1600/Magnolia+Home+008.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>N</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I actually wracked my brain for 'N' so that I wouldn't have to mention <b><a href="http://www.naturesbasket.co.in/" target="_blank">Nature's Basket</a>,</b> but couldn't come up with anything else - so I therefore have no choice but to write/complain about it. Godrej's Nature's Basket is my nemesis (and a cause for hatred amongst most other expats I have spoken to!) It is an upscale grocery store with western pretensions but without western service or management style. Yes, you can find a whole host of expat foods here including Italian olive oils, pastas, Cheddar Cheese, bacon, hummus, fancy breads and Lurpak butter. But what you have to go through to obtain these items beggars belief. The veg is usually past its sell-by-date; the people on the meat counter are usually standing around chatting whilst ignoring you; and the till operators lack any common sense whatsoever (once you get to the till that is...the queues are usually long due to the management's inability to keep all tills open at all times). And let us not forget the prices.....say no more.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>O</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Amazingly for me, I did not mention Chor Bazaar under C ('so many Cs, so little time') so I have a duty to mention <b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/desk-hunting-at-oshiwara-antiques-market.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">Oshiwara</a></b> furniture market in Jogeshwari. An antique hunter's paradise where all the shopkeepers are called Khan. Find genuine and repro Art Deco desks, rosewood chairs, granite pillars, wooden monkeys and everything in between. Please remember to spray yourself with mosquito spray and take a fan...it gets hot in those narrow little warehouses!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVYCUmSpS9yzOPIxHOtDyXJlae2px34GKVL12qWUzdHBeC-673RbzccE7H2MPu47L7L-5kXtfuPrXFp_-Tt4Hfjoj-zxj-CrrsFR4FxLFVgEEWewMWu2syyw0If__c78nZUkP9BVyGCg/s1600/DSC08269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkVYCUmSpS9yzOPIxHOtDyXJlae2px34GKVL12qWUzdHBeC-673RbzccE7H2MPu47L7L-5kXtfuPrXFp_-Tt4Hfjoj-zxj-CrrsFR4FxLFVgEEWewMWu2syyw0If__c78nZUkP9BVyGCg/s1600/DSC08269.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>P</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lots under P too! First off is <b><a href="http://layclan%2C%20pure%20living%2C%20popleys%2C%20party%20hunterz/" target="_blank">Playclan</a></b> on Hill Road, Bandra - a fun little shop selling pop-art-with-an-Indian-motif products such as coasters, T-Shirts, messenger bags, art and clocks. As the name suggests, it's playful, it's young, it's cool. Shop online <a href="http://www.theplayclan.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/purehomeplusliving" target="_blank">Pure Living</a></b> is based in Phoenix Market City (Kurla) and is an interiors shop selling contemporary furniture and home accessories. It's mid-market and inoffensive and we found it very useful for buying plain white crockery and decent cutlery, casual bedspreads and towels in plain colours and shimmering glass candle-holders. You can pick up straightforward sofas, coffee tables, table-lamps and mirrors for reasonable prices. Recommended for starter homes/expat movers.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
If you are looking to deck out a kid's, teenager's or even adult's party with balloons and novelties - or you are trying to pin down a Spiderman fancy dress outfit, then you will need <b><a href="http://www.partyhunterz.com/" target="_blank">Party Hunterz</a></b> (Ambedkar Road, Bandra and another branch in Goregaon). It's the go-to place for moms who want to hold the best party on the block for their offspring, as well as babyshower, stag/hen and halloween party accessories. Shop online <a href="http://www.partyhunterz.com/" target="_blank">here</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
New entrant is <b><a href="http://www.pondicherrylifestyle.com/prestashop/index.php?" target="_blank">Pondicherry</a></b> - a charming south Mumbai store stocking antiques and furniture made from re-purposed architectural salvage, as well as the odd contemporary piece. Some well priced home accessories are also thrown into the mix. Follow the <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/05/pondicherry-mumbai-new-antiques.html" target="_blank">link</a> for my blog. The owners Lina and Rahul are utterly charming.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KdpdjkmGNi72hEwNKS6ylEADxJLN3pKxMy4R8HzfYn_h4iS0k2GaTYetjWEvQgM5KY84y0r1pZVomKwTs-YMMSXEfPrh_vYDQD8W6lT4qULQsbPJ4hGAOhXlSb-adOR5I3XU4Vwg7DQ/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KdpdjkmGNi72hEwNKS6ylEADxJLN3pKxMy4R8HzfYn_h4iS0k2GaTYetjWEvQgM5KY84y0r1pZVomKwTs-YMMSXEfPrh_vYDQD8W6lT4qULQsbPJ4hGAOhXlSb-adOR5I3XU4Vwg7DQ/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+21.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Q</i></b></span><br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
No shops beginning with Q that I know of - but <span style="line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.quikr.com/" target="_blank"><b>Quikr</b></a> is (quote) "a city based free classifieds website that helps people buy, sell, rent, find in categories like furniture, mobile phones, cars & bikes, services, pets, real estate, jobs, education<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 17px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">entertainment and matrimonial. You can post free ads and reply to ads on Quikr in the city you live in. Quikr websites allow you to post free ads, find what you are looking for and address your regular needs by connecting people in a faster, simpler and easier way".</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>R</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love <b><a href="http://www.ritukumar.com/" target="_blank">Ritu Kumar</a></b> for its divine combination of western-ethnic wear (the 'Label' label). I just wish she produced bigger sizes! Ritu Kumar ('Ritu Kumar' label) also makes purely Indian wear that is soooo beautiful. For any foreigner looking for embroidered anarkhalis, salwar kameez and saris for a wedding, pop along to a branch (all over the city). Not cheap though.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">No antiques lover can visit Mumbai without visiting the <a href="http://www.therajcompany.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank"><b>Raj Company</b></a> in Mahalaxmi, On the ground floor you will find a huge, if somewhat dusty room with genuine, old antiques ready to be finished to your specification. On the upper floors are room upon room of cleverly reproduced colonial antique furniture - most of which will get shipped all over the world. All top notch stuff that you won't find in Chor Bazaar!</span></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>S</i></b></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">'<b><a href="http://www.theshopindia.com/our-stores/" target="_blank">The Shop</a></b>' on Ambedkar Road (opp. Pali Village Cafe) is a treasure trove of reasonably priced Indian handcrafted textiles, clothing and pottery. I particularly like the block printed and cutwork tablecloths and bedspreads - and the plates, bowls and jugs from Auroville. The clothes, in brightly coloured cotton fabrics are modern and airy - great for hot weather. There is also a cute kids room - perfect for presents for your tots.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mH5FDMnLkjQW7uNOQ8jL9vuB72SG6jjvjvlyq6CZQ-yh8E2h9gYIu1zC9ahY3kaxgNUfZM9TaNLkurKHw6_P7hs62kbwtulzE38YjnjEY2RxNdC_gkBYk1M-N2r-F3sIGTUH_tU7YTA/s1600/table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mH5FDMnLkjQW7uNOQ8jL9vuB72SG6jjvjvlyq6CZQ-yh8E2h9gYIu1zC9ahY3kaxgNUfZM9TaNLkurKHw6_P7hs62kbwtulzE38YjnjEY2RxNdC_gkBYk1M-N2r-F3sIGTUH_tU7YTA/s1600/table.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tablecloths from 'The Shop' (Photo from www.theshopindia.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Staying in Bandra/Khar (sorry, but that's where a lot of the cool shops are!) is interiors store </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.sanctumstore.com/" target="_blank">Sanctum</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> on 19th Road. Here you will find wooden furniture that has been given the shabby-chic treatment (Indian style), industrial style lamps, home accessories, vintage embroidered bags and lots of other interesting bits and pieces. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOR7OJZvXVtHeFIVRcbXN8cOiIakulYA8QyWVWlq_sYHccA2nFTT00undLCsM9NKcaZP0qJzgv7Gyiw1frzMkRS6Dwk3yBzbZMTpSBBgpDJOSlYuyhpTYdi1jNFLKK4Bhx9AM84ybR3g/s1600/Vintage+Clutches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOR7OJZvXVtHeFIVRcbXN8cOiIakulYA8QyWVWlq_sYHccA2nFTT00undLCsM9NKcaZP0qJzgv7Gyiw1frzMkRS6Dwk3yBzbZMTpSBBgpDJOSlYuyhpTYdi1jNFLKK4Bhx9AM84ybR3g/s1600/Vintage+Clutches.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage bag from Sanctum (photo courtesy of Sanctum)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Again in Bandra, <b>Something Special</b> at 63 Hill Road (no link) is great for ribbons, glitter pens, novelties, Christmas decorations, crafting materials and lots and lots of knick-knacks. Find stuff to keep your kids amused here.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>T</i></b></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Chor Bazaar is full of same-y looking stalls with repro and dusty, decrepit old furniture that has seen better days. <b><a href="http://www.taherallys.in/" target="_blank">Taherally's</a></b> however, makes a bit more effort with its shopfront and inside you will find restored furniture, glass lamps in tutti-frutti colours, art deco <i>objet</i>, bone and glass drawer handles and plenty of other items to keep you enthralled for an hour. They export and they even have a <a href="http://www.taherallys.in/" target="_blank">website!</a> Find them at 28 Mutton Street, Chor Bazaar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfbMfs-YVjFlZUcQ04Aw6xmbVHKtJCfyPn4uzdtj2d_bE9Z5Dsww1Q3U9jWs86XnyIK1TQ-W3yZvTTAJvY5T_Vu87fzES3gIxH3seXNTP5K_Or-yMwGCDgciiyDdrlbKKJDm0lhestrY/s1600/DSC06801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUfbMfs-YVjFlZUcQ04Aw6xmbVHKtJCfyPn4uzdtj2d_bE9Z5Dsww1Q3U9jWs86XnyIK1TQ-W3yZvTTAJvY5T_Vu87fzES3gIxH3seXNTP5K_Or-yMwGCDgciiyDdrlbKKJDm0lhestrY/s1600/DSC06801.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colourful ceiling lights from Taherally's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.taruntahiliani.com/" target="_blank">Tarun Tahiliani</a></b> is one of India's most celebrated clothes designers. His 'India Modern' couture collections are way out of my league but if you are rich and skinny, you will do justice to his creations. Tarun's luxury Indian crafted clothing is infused with European sensibilities. Aaaah to dream.....</span><br />
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>U</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This one is a bit of a cheat - but particularly for British expats - it is possible to buy your <b>Underwear</b> at the 35,000 sq ft Marks & Spencers on Hill Road, Bandra! Here, you can also find toiletries (including nice handwash and moisturising sets for your guest bathroom), and women's, men's and kid's clothing (including good quality, plain white babygros which can be hard to find).</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>V</i></b></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I didn't mention the electrical retailer Croma under 'C' because I loathe the store - particularly because of the poor service and lack of knowledge about products. I prefer <a href="http://www.vijaysales.com/" target="_blank">Vijay Sales</a> (based in Mumbai and branches all over) where you can pick up all electronic requirements for your home such as washing machines, fridges, TVs, tablets, phones etc etc. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>W</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Waterfield Road </b>is a shopper's paradise and very happening road in Bandra - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">particularly if you are looking for clothes and restaurants. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">A refined diversion from Linking Road, find branches of Anokhi, Reiss, hundreds of independent boutiques, Saks Hair & Beauty Salon and Paws 'n' Furs pet shop for pampered pooches.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>X & Y</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nothing found worth recommending except <b><a href="http://www.yogahouse.in/" target="_blank">Yoga House</a></b> in Bandra for awesome fresh salads and smoothies (if I was writing a restaurant guide ;-)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Z</i></b></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And finally we come to the end. <b> Zaveri Bazaar </b>in Bhuleshwar, South Mumbai is an area of crowded narrow lanes home to hundreds of jewellery shops selling gold and gems (and lots of diamonds!). It is said that 65% of all gold dealing/trading originates from this market. Giving his name to the market is <i>Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri</i> - possibly the biggest jewellery retailer in India - although you will find that there are hundreds of dealers in the country with the same surname. Zaveri is actually Gujarati for 'jeweller'. No link but full address is: </span><span style="line-height: 16.1200008392334px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mumbadevi Commercial Centre, 69/75 Zaveri Bazaar, Kika St, Gulal Wadi, Bhuleshwar, Mumbai. Go just for the experience.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1akMJjsnu3EQzCjgsO9QxUtZ1dPHMYSqwtg2YOGx_f153rp-CB38qar3fQUq3TBB9fhCyUZZdOFu8bnyr3uOyDhzLq5cgWGQwC_WUrSecu1A57yQe_swUO2IKTlZvyxJogCgrul-4Yjw/s1600/4_CHI_NCU_Bazaars_0289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1akMJjsnu3EQzCjgsO9QxUtZ1dPHMYSqwtg2YOGx_f153rp-CB38qar3fQUq3TBB9fhCyUZZdOFu8bnyr3uOyDhzLq5cgWGQwC_WUrSecu1A57yQe_swUO2IKTlZvyxJogCgrul-4Yjw/s1600/4_CHI_NCU_Bazaars_0289.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zaveri Bazaar (photo: travel.cnn.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Photos are my own unless otherwise stated.</i></div>
</div>
</div>
</span></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-17044498447517090092014-05-11T19:11:00.000+05:302014-05-12T11:41:11.127+05:30Pondicherry (Mumbai) - New Antiques & Interiors Find!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Nothing gets BombayJules's adrenalin pumping more than a new interiors find! And here we have Pondicherry (in the Metro area of Mumbai) - a store that is only a few weeks old and the creation of Lina and Rahul Parekh.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Behind the sunny yellow facade of Pondicherry (itself reminiscent of the colourful houses of the southern French-Indian town), I found a charming, <i>bijou</i> store housing an array of interesting, original furniture and <i>objet</i> (note <i>un petit </i>use of a few French words?). Here at Pondicherry, there is a warmth in all of the mostly wooden pieces, which have been constructed with such care and such attention to detail. What Lina has done is to take interesting examples of architectural salvage and re-purposed them into something contemporary and useful but with a historic reference. For example, the salvaged Burma teak door frame which has been fashioned into a bookcase with an ancient relief panel at the top. What a unique piece! There is also teak courtroom balustrade that has been converted into a console table, and the huge old, brass operation theatre light which would add interest to any eclectic interior. I also loved the coffee table, made from an old, knobbly door on brightly painted legs. Aagh, why didn't this place exist when I was hunting oh-so-hard for a coffee table! Because of the uniqueness of each of the salvaged parts, it means that each piece of furniture can only be described as a one-off.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_B_Y8sAY5YxUTQOh7hKiF-W0DuJs9oVuJ0WlOYvXKRd4DFcVgj-gYbCvNHsi-gdH1xNU5ols0Phl_wIyRIgiVwlxi_EMJWPo2eksv4-hRZx0JGac5WbeJ-n9kBgM-QrJ9NGn-bUgZ0UI/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_B_Y8sAY5YxUTQOh7hKiF-W0DuJs9oVuJ0WlOYvXKRd4DFcVgj-gYbCvNHsi-gdH1xNU5ols0Phl_wIyRIgiVwlxi_EMJWPo2eksv4-hRZx0JGac5WbeJ-n9kBgM-QrJ9NGn-bUgZ0UI/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+21.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My photos don't do the store justice - there is so much to intrigue you in here!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although most of the products are distinctly Indian - as they make the most of Indian craftmanship and materials - there are also some interesting contemporary designs that have been commissioned by Rahul. Rahul is fore-mostly involved in the construction business but also has a passion for woodworking. This crossover of knowledge has been translated into straightforward, functional furniture with a modernity that blends so well with this wife's more historic pieces. Rahul showed me a Burma teak desk, inspired by the French designer Jean Prouve, with its angular, laser cut steel legs. Very cool indeed. And I was also keen on the colourful teak side tables with laminated tops in candy colours.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51-XNzrcUmTGwB3ezlf_1Kym_ge6BDE4Dyltd96_b7xixJRpvQOTIh9cmbhqtFdW-odaxUZT_qn6a4FKKQpJA3_QOZct6c7-wf-TSMWCjzp4qQ4R5H7gRVoPlBqx_-ZNf1y1r5n5xaho/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51-XNzrcUmTGwB3ezlf_1Kym_ge6BDE4Dyltd96_b7xixJRpvQOTIh9cmbhqtFdW-odaxUZT_qn6a4FKKQpJA3_QOZct6c7-wf-TSMWCjzp4qQ4R5H7gRVoPlBqx_-ZNf1y1r5n5xaho/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+24.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For a pop of colour, there were several of these handcrafted teak side-tables with laminated tops - pink, blue, green, yellow...take your pick!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I thought that the prices were very reasonable in terms of the amount of craftsmanship and antiquity that makes up each creation (see pics below for further details). And in amongst the larger pieces of furniture are some really affordable accessories - such as the huge sheesham wood mirror for Rs 12,000 or the smaller mosaic mirrors for Rs 8,500. I also loved the picture frames made of etched metal (starting at Rs 750) and the colourful wooden trays (starting at Rs 900) that bring the collection to life.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AnHuZxl-3jql_KhzaDchR-L-yQFBM4NIL3iQ7-NtRAA0g-IL6nuCNVCo3htrD0GrsTuuuWjrPELEQokcRuXBpJ0N9y6d8c_Kljd4UeuqKet18yTKb7MFk-M5aL4IApJKRIfIFJeQhhw/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AnHuZxl-3jql_KhzaDchR-L-yQFBM4NIL3iQ7-NtRAA0g-IL6nuCNVCo3htrD0GrsTuuuWjrPELEQokcRuXBpJ0N9y6d8c_Kljd4UeuqKet18yTKb7MFk-M5aL4IApJKRIfIFJeQhhw/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So what is the story behind Pondicherry? Lina - already a contemporary Indian art dealer (see website <a href="http://www.kalpavraksha.in/" target="_blank">Kalpa:vraksha</a>) has herself been collecting art and antiques for a long time. Upon moving into a new house a while back, she found that she just could not find what she wanted to decorate her home - i.e. furnishings that were just a little bit different. So she started experimenting with designs - by taking old furniture, or interesting cuts of wood, panels, doors etc (sourced from all over India) and giving them a contemporary twist using a team of skilled carpenters. Lina then dipped her toes in the water by exhibiting a few of her creations at an associate's art gallery. But when everything quickly sold out, she knew she was onto something. That is when she decided that she should take it one step further by opening a shopfront. Lina has a close spiritual association with the Sri Aurobindo Foundation based in Pondicherry, hence why she wanted to name her store after the town. Rahul adds his contemporary twist to the collection by designing and producing the modern pieces described above. This husband-and-wife (or should I say wife-and-husband!) partnership works in perfect tandem. They are passionate about what they do and this is reflected in the quality of their output.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hKjEHsLCoKuVHiXh_rKgl5CCJ5blqjpS011LK8N8bpcS-w2TQ-Ox0djzM1f8-UResfuwKHVJdOQSpSHoMMi0oROrpeIMxzbiiAhb1ixcVAyu3ByeEcxYeCQ55bWtiH6IoU5dIcbokvI/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hKjEHsLCoKuVHiXh_rKgl5CCJ5blqjpS011LK8N8bpcS-w2TQ-Ox0djzM1f8-UResfuwKHVJdOQSpSHoMMi0oROrpeIMxzbiiAhb1ixcVAyu3ByeEcxYeCQ55bWtiH6IoU5dIcbokvI/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lina and Rahul - the sweetest couple!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Pondicherry premises actually used to be a wine shop belonging to Lina's father - but I suspect that it will not be long before they are upscaling from their store at 100 Marine Mansions to something much bigger. I myself would love to see more of these one-off designs!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>More pics:</i></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3I6-BKpZFdz3vBIeDW8Ol3Ja3fdDWtQ79rCrlnk6ZCJET5f_6VLIduqlvv1bv6bAp2AKbmRBUb1hQP-YaFcTKxjBBNcUJNWjLA1ko-m_2mJHZ_stHK1q8Y3-ZyY_1pB-AD0R2l8OAPMM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3I6-BKpZFdz3vBIeDW8Ol3Ja3fdDWtQ79rCrlnk6ZCJET5f_6VLIduqlvv1bv6bAp2AKbmRBUb1hQP-YaFcTKxjBBNcUJNWjLA1ko-m_2mJHZ_stHK1q8Y3-ZyY_1pB-AD0R2l8OAPMM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+02.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this old shrine that has shelves added so it can be used as a mini-drinks or medicine cabinet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEsmbjqpg-VPv80tLzMUAKsTDTktNjdPRzQbGSK0JFs5ZrC9jMI8BXTv66YLIlRPPlkgSVYs5mpmAto2rd6BT8p3phxjkY7p3SmW08i8ViQAZEsVP50qIum318ALpXxn2Tg0_I1ADNqc/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEsmbjqpg-VPv80tLzMUAKsTDTktNjdPRzQbGSK0JFs5ZrC9jMI8BXTv66YLIlRPPlkgSVYs5mpmAto2rd6BT8p3phxjkY7p3SmW08i8ViQAZEsVP50qIum318ALpXxn2Tg0_I1ADNqc/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the doors closed....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7Cid8VQV6Xg9zXnptYCE1atTSL3e3gE_Egv_bUseOJYbZ9HE7aTqFeuzReZlBifygI8xztLegUkMp96wyS_ngTOyVqS1Hf9lOqz1ubMXEXGfABVUJB9UaAl2J9vOfOcjhtvo8M8yBLw/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7Cid8VQV6Xg9zXnptYCE1atTSL3e3gE_Egv_bUseOJYbZ9HE7aTqFeuzReZlBifygI8xztLegUkMp96wyS_ngTOyVqS1Hf9lOqz1ubMXEXGfABVUJB9UaAl2J9vOfOcjhtvo8M8yBLw/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brightly coloured hand-painted trays start at Rs 900.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftyebdt-3YyLxMP4y6CNN9JPzyF8BYSuAXmNhrgyw3wjgg7tzXk8KWwRGv76h5H3QI9oDKhCyPUB5cpBNgEbmQIXwGh-QOYz-H_iHnlXIW7OebBRgtQNahNVZhm1odppTcXLAPtraJqg/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftyebdt-3YyLxMP4y6CNN9JPzyF8BYSuAXmNhrgyw3wjgg7tzXk8KWwRGv76h5H3QI9oDKhCyPUB5cpBNgEbmQIXwGh-QOYz-H_iHnlXIW7OebBRgtQNahNVZhm1odppTcXLAPtraJqg/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iron lace photo frames Rs 750 to Rs 1,100</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVZ_YTkUHsiMQdgob10LbXGw5yA1AgUc-4znORhFAq3kIcJPb_3Brsc4osLfWw1bf9rMAt-dnGrlaY7wyeuxKW8xGrSrzhQCY2t6VQf5VpZt-Ru8i_ptC1fpb2U5qYbxuajhtLEXdZLE/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVZ_YTkUHsiMQdgob10LbXGw5yA1AgUc-4znORhFAq3kIcJPb_3Brsc4osLfWw1bf9rMAt-dnGrlaY7wyeuxKW8xGrSrzhQCY2t6VQf5VpZt-Ru8i_ptC1fpb2U5qYbxuajhtLEXdZLE/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0A-cB5vI6b9NVlT-jJ5BNfdLq-rC_DOwAL1R9ezxdvv1b1I6soJFDXBGz_OJbn4dtAL5BhehhI-_T8ZUIZmS7ts_Or1mUATFPeAZHnElSWEbVzKi6A3-tVE9nue2jCv87MJa2vO6y_K4/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0A-cB5vI6b9NVlT-jJ5BNfdLq-rC_DOwAL1R9ezxdvv1b1I6soJFDXBGz_OJbn4dtAL5BhehhI-_T8ZUIZmS7ts_Or1mUATFPeAZHnElSWEbVzKi6A3-tVE9nue2jCv87MJa2vO6y_K4/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+08.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incredible salvaged Burma teak door frame with intricate relief panel incorporated above.<br />
Makes for a magnificent and unique book case. Rs 185,000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6U-djRN1ATe-cM8jPyzpPPqKVX2PkBiurk0cSb5X3SSQyrH3oEXbDPRLDAEa4oKl3NkAgyTSXPFS_548l_OpNYMbykE4DXCkZO7sJGedE7ssf_Seu97u2TU2bhirF9iqOZybjSOeft0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6U-djRN1ATe-cM8jPyzpPPqKVX2PkBiurk0cSb5X3SSQyrH3oEXbDPRLDAEa4oKl3NkAgyTSXPFS_548l_OpNYMbykE4DXCkZO7sJGedE7ssf_Seu97u2TU2bhirF9iqOZybjSOeft0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+09.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salvaged door panel from Kraikudi refashioned into a coffee table (Rs 75,000). </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvk8OdKoaTAZ_CwCs9uP0ru7rQC24bvfjcoOvKqC-Oj1XGSJM-lak3xRp4Z4y4dwhW18MshXQ772HcTg7ODSVNXL2n83fAB2d4ynUR53xl7NEE3FTAoszfiEgFKJN9vWYjCyVYNQeg44/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKvk8OdKoaTAZ_CwCs9uP0ru7rQC24bvfjcoOvKqC-Oj1XGSJM-lak3xRp4Z4y4dwhW18MshXQ772HcTg7ODSVNXL2n83fAB2d4ynUR53xl7NEE3FTAoszfiEgFKJN9vWYjCyVYNQeg44/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+10.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CTGzMwuq06YahD8W-dWlmVOU5wMWzIUT8QJEbK5ZeKGStcDZCfGkbmC2RJXvh2PacUxFOShT_LZ_SQAzqgCtKqlbKFnBmCYYNXV7MTuqnh5W9Qz4eDwYQ0SX9S0I6tavjXDaWNC7L7g/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CTGzMwuq06YahD8W-dWlmVOU5wMWzIUT8QJEbK5ZeKGStcDZCfGkbmC2RJXvh2PacUxFOShT_LZ_SQAzqgCtKqlbKFnBmCYYNXV7MTuqnh5W9Qz4eDwYQ0SX9S0I6tavjXDaWNC7L7g/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ULZw9ylJhwhu2hHpnK6KFGlK6fwgXOueJswxNv9-oKTSGEK542Cito9yF4oVe60yexDni5y9SLsN4obDBQXNU-9AuSicjlxGtqBfzJ6lsmRv-sw0wvpIdkeJSfHWeevB9JHA0J5ZKMo/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ULZw9ylJhwhu2hHpnK6KFGlK6fwgXOueJswxNv9-oKTSGEK542Cito9yF4oVe60yexDni5y9SLsN4obDBQXNU-9AuSicjlxGtqBfzJ6lsmRv-sw0wvpIdkeJSfHWeevB9JHA0J5ZKMo/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+12.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To the right is a salvaged courtroom balustrade refashioned into a hallway console. So original!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5WxHJobHaWEwP6yaqOBLXG2m1MdBlsKUlroYFlFJA-zux368SiQvcrWxVTHon5SU5UURXM5QSxUO9NfLyP0hEPqCrnrbfMZZdCw8s8d9R8SSOuDlk7w34RWoICOBls7PbnmTfu7yxOk/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5WxHJobHaWEwP6yaqOBLXG2m1MdBlsKUlroYFlFJA-zux368SiQvcrWxVTHon5SU5UURXM5QSxUO9NfLyP0hEPqCrnrbfMZZdCw8s8d9R8SSOuDlk7w34RWoICOBls7PbnmTfu7yxOk/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+13.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Prouve inspired desk - old Burma teak top on laser cut painted steel. Compact and stylish (Rs 39,500)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDoeL3o0qgzjwhnmgNETN97qxwNIoz29mQA7jbRoqsNagaRyz3XraNdF9YaJfS4RG8nj2w43oQ0UZJuuT8Vr_J_eWP1MqtFi0VrEuVM9yx-cL4D60IApD2cqMxHVL8b6pSAJlG73uIiUU/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDoeL3o0qgzjwhnmgNETN97qxwNIoz29mQA7jbRoqsNagaRyz3XraNdF9YaJfS4RG8nj2w43oQ0UZJuuT8Vr_J_eWP1MqtFi0VrEuVM9yx-cL4D60IApD2cqMxHVL8b6pSAJlG73uIiUU/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+14.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May have to go back for this teak lampbase.....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbkMC8fHftKjJTMgnnUvVIjzG0vnQo6U3SQDlOu0n8aMZS4WDA2Rk6N8dDVHwakVmLl6ym5tgT85w_BvI_E1D8Uvgnf8yRRPJW29a_ABS_RtLDnvGPC4_dVYfOuOivGA0NJLt8PB6k3A/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbkMC8fHftKjJTMgnnUvVIjzG0vnQo6U3SQDlOu0n8aMZS4WDA2Rk6N8dDVHwakVmLl6ym5tgT85w_BvI_E1D8Uvgnf8yRRPJW29a_ABS_RtLDnvGPC4_dVYfOuOivGA0NJLt8PB6k3A/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowl carved from a single piece of polished granite (Rs 4,500)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTN5xIpODu9PDTCKkRXT3udviKkK1SrfIK5GbzDkgddIeOdEGTrhGLrCDfPzQ-DluDkyCFjSZEleREtHjvfRcPvFcQ-1_OwaDzV7S4wEX01T8sf-5F_q-w18winDXPXxA2WsXXel4cyt0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTN5xIpODu9PDTCKkRXT3udviKkK1SrfIK5GbzDkgddIeOdEGTrhGLrCDfPzQ-DluDkyCFjSZEleREtHjvfRcPvFcQ-1_OwaDzV7S4wEX01T8sf-5F_q-w18winDXPXxA2WsXXel4cyt0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+16.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning salvaged altarpiece.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlbKAlnQP3iXX9E_U5XxrJXd-piTFubGPWPTiyI2VPuLt2-E1xirWuBdBgrcyKfyv1VYGPrwySmBnlxwgs118BBSPP2rgKAwmYnx8yp3RljHxxRdrjUZcHfIxM69q98ZH6mz2SRuq8os/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlbKAlnQP3iXX9E_U5XxrJXd-piTFubGPWPTiyI2VPuLt2-E1xirWuBdBgrcyKfyv1VYGPrwySmBnlxwgs118BBSPP2rgKAwmYnx8yp3RljHxxRdrjUZcHfIxM69q98ZH6mz2SRuq8os/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+17.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salvaged old teak letter sorter retrofitted in a teak glass cabinet - makes a fabulous wine cabinet! Rs 21,000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwC7zzOA5GFPpY0w9iylmO7N4NzJWrmrwjB1ACZVNgJ9R67Okr2ky92DHEV22da5bCxF3SfSzC6wOj8dHPWbb3Q7RHVrOlqqNk-7mOGqpsCfqIRuuAALXBYXDCw2634c8LH1p9nHP_HH4/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwC7zzOA5GFPpY0w9iylmO7N4NzJWrmrwjB1ACZVNgJ9R67Okr2ky92DHEV22da5bCxF3SfSzC6wOj8dHPWbb3Q7RHVrOlqqNk-7mOGqpsCfqIRuuAALXBYXDCw2634c8LH1p9nHP_HH4/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+18.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fore something really different, how about these old Jain marble panels set into side tables<br />
I think Rahul said the panels were from the 14th or 15th century,<br />
so quite a find and worthy of the Rs 145,000 price tag.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bm5vOgurN7R3id1cKekueRgszuobbq8RlKc4fJcgPBPC8CTJbS4M2LFNrJV8xgtdmBcBYc6nXGVHzsMMk1Pmufhj-Wiy0QHoQ7HKvnLnrTE8Bni0uSVvZI5XU2IB6nJvAKOI7pJUq0E/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bm5vOgurN7R3id1cKekueRgszuobbq8RlKc4fJcgPBPC8CTJbS4M2LFNrJV8xgtdmBcBYc6nXGVHzsMMk1Pmufhj-Wiy0QHoQ7HKvnLnrTE8Bni0uSVvZI5XU2IB6nJvAKOI7pJUq0E/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+19.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pair of these stunning South Indian gods adorn either side of the doorway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZSS5u8R76njQhnCzzqIKaCf8vKlzketNFnXDhUMICzWQsUqBRv9Y4Uoomgyhd83ROuoos9x3_W5_SzK7LPHTYzLnmC21ezg_XqhC-MFsc6YCEmiteeoRB9EWYn_sLRHvy_ZF7OpCVNM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZSS5u8R76njQhnCzzqIKaCf8vKlzketNFnXDhUMICzWQsUqBRv9Y4Uoomgyhd83ROuoos9x3_W5_SzK7LPHTYzLnmC21ezg_XqhC-MFsc6YCEmiteeoRB9EWYn_sLRHvy_ZF7OpCVNM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+20.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was hard to take a good picture of this without getting myself in the frame!<br />
It's a vanity mirror console framed with old Victorian, carved Burma teak relief panels.<br />
This would be perfect in a lady's dressing room (MaximumCityMadam, are you reading this?)<br />
Rs 122,000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ot3R8v4IP9EnlkFQ1veao57kFlQbTxmBpmvjIY2iP1HvxPfouyW_0ji5o684y19Zphy2yEpZOTAGk2ZmlUt14t4TBWm0h5IaDuSgleEGih-dXR1udMzhkt1j2VkUhvFOi4nmNKGqS3U/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ot3R8v4IP9EnlkFQ1veao57kFlQbTxmBpmvjIY2iP1HvxPfouyW_0ji5o684y19Zphy2yEpZOTAGk2ZmlUt14t4TBWm0h5IaDuSgleEGih-dXR1udMzhkt1j2VkUhvFOi4nmNKGqS3U/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+22.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFQBeCUQAYIp7b9bXPGGTmwxohhDPT0WuqKQ9WnMZKUyNoHdo2QLyL8oDjE9JuFBVOFdFrOK31aAMardBAzgp3XcnTkUeGE5vu1SFqTaAQ4E1aFR2wxg6_CL0-iYJrix3MtM6xxRZj2M/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFQBeCUQAYIp7b9bXPGGTmwxohhDPT0WuqKQ9WnMZKUyNoHdo2QLyL8oDjE9JuFBVOFdFrOK31aAMardBAzgp3XcnTkUeGE5vu1SFqTaAQ4E1aFR2wxg6_CL0-iYJrix3MtM6xxRZj2M/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+23.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not yet complete, this old stallion is about to be converted into a Mooi inspired horse lamp.<br />
Rs 95,000. Love it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHopJMqHku3Ws12i-NXFWAbBv5PsDlAN0DP7apGKAeV0a8_NLjH3ztTyT5zGWCrl4BntQu6QMmSRCdYUvBs3VlXN5dNQ_7_V37UtWXt1NwoidtzpYfKgm-K1EJeFs5rP-oKG8PLMTg3fk/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHopJMqHku3Ws12i-NXFWAbBv5PsDlAN0DP7apGKAeV0a8_NLjH3ztTyT5zGWCrl4BntQu6QMmSRCdYUvBs3VlXN5dNQ_7_V37UtWXt1NwoidtzpYfKgm-K1EJeFs5rP-oKG8PLMTg3fk/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+25.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the price-tags are crafted out of wood. I wanted to buy one!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TW0Zaydh0o93mN56u-eo3fIlseh0P4EXcdVSQaXkbKUlwpUkeygBNXfWJfZww-L_FBeqRqoeVxcNTmrSJijyU3rssrsrjNpR1-uyjM-SyQRolA7KxILjpXAqLaFFwm8CoqiJ7QdSj8I/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TW0Zaydh0o93mN56u-eo3fIlseh0P4EXcdVSQaXkbKUlwpUkeygBNXfWJfZww-L_FBeqRqoeVxcNTmrSJijyU3rssrsrjNpR1-uyjM-SyQRolA7KxILjpXAqLaFFwm8CoqiJ7QdSj8I/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+26.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rahul Parekh - the coolest man I've met in Mumbai since <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/12/who-is-beanbag.html" target="_blank">Mr Beanbag</a>!.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7GWHUSI-CQuBA2Ys3k6oX_dlo2CAsyyaD4DHtLeMZOIf03U0r9jl044LOjIIbSvIEtWyW4GKG0tnzC0i-rHfvzDOGQwfYpfEmShTsmKw3vnIX9sGvdcGSPh8pcOwU_j6E1jLIKIiS3Y/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7GWHUSI-CQuBA2Ys3k6oX_dlo2CAsyyaD4DHtLeMZOIf03U0r9jl044LOjIIbSvIEtWyW4GKG0tnzC0i-rHfvzDOGQwfYpfEmShTsmKw3vnIX9sGvdcGSPh8pcOwU_j6E1jLIKIiS3Y/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+27.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's not forget the kids. I love this jolly hand-painted shelving unit in sheesham (Rs 24,000)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1wDoBHGLAcfhtk6pKw7yw9OpQr9vOefFMLtSbNcBTGwLwvs3eufp47S8TxhrVC4d2s6PSR-Bv_lnljJAHxiUA_COIpsiJ4NkM2hgIvdd9R_VT2v7QdtJAjnmzxlavkppIc5UasoRWw0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP1wDoBHGLAcfhtk6pKw7yw9OpQr9vOefFMLtSbNcBTGwLwvs3eufp47S8TxhrVC4d2s6PSR-Bv_lnljJAHxiUA_COIpsiJ4NkM2hgIvdd9R_VT2v7QdtJAjnmzxlavkppIc5UasoRWw0/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+28.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mother Mary and Jesus is not for sale - but makes a great centre-piece in the store....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVTAQhg9THsXklE5b24Sw9YLybOoK1ixz-GsfcVGii1sCWyy_GUJlxxBkViTut-pev1qRiupnO8Mao58Asur_35zhwrTgBdsS_-QGxzc68WAlp4yTYHw7wtoDA5DfBiy-3GU0XekQ_bY/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVTAQhg9THsXklE5b24Sw9YLybOoK1ixz-GsfcVGii1sCWyy_GUJlxxBkViTut-pev1qRiupnO8Mao58Asur_35zhwrTgBdsS_-QGxzc68WAlp4yTYHw7wtoDA5DfBiy-3GU0XekQ_bY/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+29.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....and I love the way that they stand irreverently atop this fold out drinks cabinet/bar!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LVnfF965uBYwHJWBSE_81M8oL7JBRysqcEdDW1tJVEI-1VPy5NDXRBOPUNQ38deQfDuEqnJwF65umnWIFM2OFx19JzgJy3__qOTRSvk8aNqYd4Ej2RYGCCuetaJAtgDJoKG2ItPSObM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LVnfF965uBYwHJWBSE_81M8oL7JBRysqcEdDW1tJVEI-1VPy5NDXRBOPUNQ38deQfDuEqnJwF65umnWIFM2OFx19JzgJy3__qOTRSvk8aNqYd4Ej2RYGCCuetaJAtgDJoKG2ItPSObM/s1600/Pondicherry-Mumbai+-+30.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pondicherry</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">100 Marine Mansion<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anandilal Poddar Marg<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Near Metro Cinema<u></u><u></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mumbai</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tel: 2201-6861</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Website: <a href="http://www.pondicherrylifestyle.com/">www.pondicherrylifestyle.com</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pondicherrylifestyle" target="_blank">Facebook</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Open 10.30 am to 7.30 pm Monday to Saturday.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Prices are fixed and include all taxes (enquire about delivery).</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Directions: If you are coming from Metro side, turn into the road that connects to Marine Lines. Pondicherry is just after the round mosque (in the middle of the road) on the right hand side. Parking from around 11.00 am should be feasible on Marine lInes opposite Kala Niketan.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-14434353403820413612014-05-08T19:08:00.000+05:302014-06-10T15:46:27.514+05:30Scenes from The Golden Temple, Amritsar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If there is one place that can knock you down with a feather like the Taj Mahal can..it's the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Wow, what an amazing place.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last weekend, Mr Jules and I had the very great pleasure of visiting Amritsar and the Temple with our great friends Mr & Mrs MaximumCityMadam. We took the two hour direct Spicejet flight to Amritsar (in the Punjab) and then hired a car for the duration of our stay which dropped us off at our hotel - the Hyatt. I won't say too much about the Hyatt other than we had a great stay there - elegant rooms and dining areas, efficient service, great food - no problems whatsoever. It was about 6,200 Rs per night plus taxes (£62/$90) which was not bad at all for such a good standard. On this occasion, we decided not to stay in a 'character-stroke-heritage' hotel.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBm-eWIqsXr24YTHO-FwobBEIexzkmSvic6MaTCWIkbsnq2z1nHQFY_wQYBnJcaCoNOIXn9T39sZvI5hE8fNEclbrFImKj82zkFsrwZ9BLp6QxliU_RL5a07CMVL09p-bOxVu1p6pFiM/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUBm-eWIqsXr24YTHO-FwobBEIexzkmSvic6MaTCWIkbsnq2z1nHQFY_wQYBnJcaCoNOIXn9T39sZvI5hE8fNEclbrFImKj82zkFsrwZ9BLp6QxliU_RL5a07CMVL09p-bOxVu1p6pFiM/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+46.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We made two visits to the Golden Temple - one at sundown and one at sunrise the next morning. There are ceremonies at 4am and 10pm which is what most of the visitors to the Temple come for - but we decided that a) we would rather consume alcohol at 10pm and b) we would rather not have to get up at 3am because of alcohol. And besides, there was a video of the 4am and 10pm ceremonies on the hotel TV which was good enough for us! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Golden Temple - properly known as Harmandir Sahib - is the most famous of all Sikh <i>Gurdwaras</i> (meaning "Gateway to the Guru"). It was built by the Fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun, in the 16th century. The doors that are on each of the four sides symbolise the openness of Sikhs towards those of any creed, colour or walk of life. I have a lot of respect for that particular approach to religion!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKldR21AXuXh4-uSPZpMkH8v8jWpLN0n5aGI2Iic8SdtdLEC3CLKutEzJDc00Oyv0T-ZcW931yVjaRumxVF6gYZIGOZUt9WrYeCaTJFPJMgewthSiYJIF9NraVZvWEdY8ICIX-21E7CoQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKldR21AXuXh4-uSPZpMkH8v8jWpLN0n5aGI2Iic8SdtdLEC3CLKutEzJDc00Oyv0T-ZcW931yVjaRumxVF6gYZIGOZUt9WrYeCaTJFPJMgewthSiYJIF9NraVZvWEdY8ICIX-21E7CoQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+10.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">The gold covering was installed by the Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the early nineteenth century - thus giving it its English name. The Gurdwara/Temple is surrounded by a large lake or holy tank called the Sarovar. This consists of </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Amrit</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> - being 'holy water' or 'immortal nectar'. Hence how the city got its name.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To get into the temple complex, we had to take our shoes off and hand them in at one of numerous counters (in exchange for a numbered token). We then washed/shook our feet in a shallow pool of water before entering. We also had to cover our heads (us ladies in dupattas/pashminas whilst the men donned bright orange 10 Rs bandanas, available to buy anywhere outside the complex). As you step past the foot-bath and walk through the archway, you glimpse the electric-golden roof of the temple for the first time. It is a moment I shall never forget, along with seeing the Taj Mahal for the first time. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over 100,000 people visit the Golden Temple every day to worship and hear chants read from the Guru Granth Sahib (the holiest text of Sikhism) which is always present inside the Gurdwara. But it never feels overcrowded or rowdy....just incredibly peaceful and spiritual. The 24 hour chanting which is amplified on Bose speakers throughout the temple complex can be heard from miles away. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDzC7qdWQyg37Yr-4wzZ-iar9Wayc4JPUcMdk4IT_IEF_LcjtMwbAHKCvfhhvkdvIs-8mHfd799JyfVRnVDjfb7XApr2zVLPf2aP2oYE_8xUE7hVrjU86PFrsyU1uoqW2_5QLow45RtA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDzC7qdWQyg37Yr-4wzZ-iar9Wayc4JPUcMdk4IT_IEF_LcjtMwbAHKCvfhhvkdvIs-8mHfd799JyfVRnVDjfb7XApr2zVLPf2aP2oYE_8xUE7hVrjU86PFrsyU1uoqW2_5QLow45RtA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+37.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wider view of the temple complex and the Sarovar. Just out of shot to the left are Sikh men partially undressing behind a screen so that they can take a dip in the tank.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Many of the visitors - especially those from rural parts who had come to pay their respects - had never seen fair-skinned westerners before. So we were followed around by men filming us on their mobile phones and there were many requests for group photos with us. But it was all very friendly and pleasant. The Punjabis are the most incredibly welcoming and friendly people I have met in India.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJm4z3MIPoeXrRFC4C13LOe38hg6fXF0tgG0VocoTttGk5zRPGD5vP9C0ItD22_AP5reX6X6TP7N8HT-XnedKepXB-dWtvK8BHZRbsKLCIcz5L1js2EOa8FOFN3fK4KuKlXYEpH4CqIU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJm4z3MIPoeXrRFC4C13LOe38hg6fXF0tgG0VocoTttGk5zRPGD5vP9C0ItD22_AP5reX6X6TP7N8HT-XnedKepXB-dWtvK8BHZRbsKLCIcz5L1js2EOa8FOFN3fK4KuKlXYEpH4CqIU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+06.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Filming us foreigners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the end of our evening visit, we were treated to a fireworks display to celebrate the Fifth Guru's birthday! Not only that, but the air was full of static and we saw glimpses of lightning and heard claps of thunder in the background. Quite a rare spectacle all in all!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZohj1dSRWnY7IQHsryXbkwM78gBt4S9AIs237CCQB38vr4KWBS0hL2QjDRGN1pOz6Qg0Y6tj3Chj874FIfcIHt-IiMvkFey24_lY5Zv9FqXMXe3EeeoU-FDbdfk1KsDIjexKoeuTeebQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZohj1dSRWnY7IQHsryXbkwM78gBt4S9AIs237CCQB38vr4KWBS0hL2QjDRGN1pOz6Qg0Y6tj3Chj874FIfcIHt-IiMvkFey24_lY5Zv9FqXMXe3EeeoU-FDbdfk1KsDIjexKoeuTeebQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+32.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightning, thunder and fireworks to celebrate the Fifth Guru's birthday <br />
completes our experience of the Golden Temple.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are some pics of the amazing Golden Temple and its visitors....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8nKoTgMTVzkQ1wQi3iopCEkD26AblWDRhC8QO_8ShZUFOHn2ZYOFzQeyYvBqT2Tut-lEZCeaHr_GHOLXsYJMBLfkYCrkTmvTxawPJo9F4go4uA4vJpSZLenLTfgquaX8MIL1wH9Puzk/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8nKoTgMTVzkQ1wQi3iopCEkD26AblWDRhC8QO_8ShZUFOHn2ZYOFzQeyYvBqT2Tut-lEZCeaHr_GHOLXsYJMBLfkYCrkTmvTxawPJo9F4go4uA4vJpSZLenLTfgquaX8MIL1wH9Puzk/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+02.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep in contemplation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sYB2eAG55jZdpfRiKm9u_U-MUAuahrS9IiIEJl66U7kBtd_aGw5DbYCRBhm-J8YRuNOl4kV0SHEN8qUf50DboBrVXj631yLJE1IJ7_2bVi329IvnCoDoZvXIbhF5UwwXy6jvMGf7QDQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sYB2eAG55jZdpfRiKm9u_U-MUAuahrS9IiIEJl66U7kBtd_aGw5DbYCRBhm-J8YRuNOl4kV0SHEN8qUf50DboBrVXj631yLJE1IJ7_2bVi329IvnCoDoZvXIbhF5UwwXy6jvMGf7QDQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+07.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glorious gold (real gold!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cC2JIRvZpZc3p4QDfM4O1CHh6gn1pGStUlD3YhCAjeyV7_oqceiSbKmL75usY7pGNLu7sIZeEjyH4v5JAI5_lwp7rOcUPPrnYxkcaEkIrPvnQLVdR_WP9n5DKo-IWe-MqZ7xjbhh9Ls/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cC2JIRvZpZc3p4QDfM4O1CHh6gn1pGStUlD3YhCAjeyV7_oqceiSbKmL75usY7pGNLu7sIZeEjyH4v5JAI5_lwp7rOcUPPrnYxkcaEkIrPvnQLVdR_WP9n5DKo-IWe-MqZ7xjbhh9Ls/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+11.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just catching a few zeds .zzzzzz</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOszZxX41dGDd8o5P9KswdxpVrz_l4FwBMya0SJPkFH2kltdMmWwo0HJbrYzhx8SfA09hmQ1AVDt82i9P2Q8mEE9rDX_BGA2mtAuUb2SD8w-cusHjZuZknGvSs_Fo8gQwky24-l5svNuI/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOszZxX41dGDd8o5P9KswdxpVrz_l4FwBMya0SJPkFH2kltdMmWwo0HJbrYzhx8SfA09hmQ1AVDt82i9P2Q8mEE9rDX_BGA2mtAuUb2SD8w-cusHjZuZknGvSs_Fo8gQwky24-l5svNuI/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+14.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Golden Temple - a symbol of 'human brotherhood'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3Oe9_0cLyJyGPN0ulOdRvnGjEbNx6pqwpVuScLMrVT8TqVYew7wttCf2s7b8sS7LmOeqKq85IgFqx2-AEBUcQPcZLbM76m4xmsgsbsAXNxHUPiTH5ZrLvIl6KXunn7vdSFW2EU4pDfw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho3Oe9_0cLyJyGPN0ulOdRvnGjEbNx6pqwpVuScLMrVT8TqVYew7wttCf2s7b8sS7LmOeqKq85IgFqx2-AEBUcQPcZLbM76m4xmsgsbsAXNxHUPiTH5ZrLvIl6KXunn7vdSFW2EU4pDfw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+15.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reflections in the water at sun down (stormy grey sky beckons)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-emPX6d-nYbs3LLfwTwKIfKUUI8Ob5Y4rEgo3N4d4jwpV_regqBlphVaIMMkAcf_tEs5JgYRAR4c5UkeAhOaO7__FHXi8eEl9J7L3eaBPjS9t3ys6Aj5h1zA2FNjlIel6uymT7iV5aRc/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-emPX6d-nYbs3LLfwTwKIfKUUI8Ob5Y4rEgo3N4d4jwpV_regqBlphVaIMMkAcf_tEs5JgYRAR4c5UkeAhOaO7__FHXi8eEl9J7L3eaBPjS9t3ys6Aj5h1zA2FNjlIel6uymT7iV5aRc/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+16.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep reverence for the Sikh faith.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixF4XfDBsAFwCrt7ERxsNpW0nHjIcwmEAp_Ag8ZiPdnCT6Kl5oB2yttZJsYMVsHPVzycF-H3mz7bup2BOnJ3GztgpEMg1AWMHDgWlQQt_I9ojxkxhcAJ4EUPlDCxwLyr0vbnPLGSPKwxU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixF4XfDBsAFwCrt7ERxsNpW0nHjIcwmEAp_Ag8ZiPdnCT6Kl5oB2yttZJsYMVsHPVzycF-H3mz7bup2BOnJ3GztgpEMg1AWMHDgWlQQt_I9ojxkxhcAJ4EUPlDCxwLyr0vbnPLGSPKwxU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+18.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of the many volunteers who help prepare (the free-of-charge) food for visitors. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcoONlOowvgamVyseqtL5qCaXLDuJSENxm3jggpYBU2-44wDxaIUniME-Nyv0JEOe_F0V77229URRlhnx96lOXZICGmlwX5RpeOu4ZT7sDKDHKcphKFpaQgUorHtWDWJrCYjSW1wsoLo/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcoONlOowvgamVyseqtL5qCaXLDuJSENxm3jggpYBU2-44wDxaIUniME-Nyv0JEOe_F0V77229URRlhnx96lOXZICGmlwX5RpeOu4ZT7sDKDHKcphKFpaQgUorHtWDWJrCYjSW1wsoLo/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+19.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngYAS8-GowcTxp0WgJY0ENkiaDy_oaHQsN6bpQCa8Tj8eYr68oHlO8MC2-C4Xwji-UB4ASP-pGEtvgW3uIdHhaJFsQyxb8XUtkVrI1d1uRdzantW4bC4pCi6HW4pMqW1TwlDtdVgOl1c/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngYAS8-GowcTxp0WgJY0ENkiaDy_oaHQsN6bpQCa8Tj8eYr68oHlO8MC2-C4Xwji-UB4ASP-pGEtvgW3uIdHhaJFsQyxb8XUtkVrI1d1uRdzantW4bC4pCi6HW4pMqW1TwlDtdVgOl1c/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+20.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning colours</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBqp3lNyS6Gc-09XGkXss_iXzJuJtbFy8phj0wpt7dpHMtL1h9SM54JDHBR_sj2O1Z7_cRdyHhOJ2s5nfwmZoxdXnkqNvdHxv2ttS4CqKVFBc0ep8gqGv80gdfils2yYc0QW51AIZ7cs/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBqp3lNyS6Gc-09XGkXss_iXzJuJtbFy8phj0wpt7dpHMtL1h9SM54JDHBR_sj2O1Z7_cRdyHhOJ2s5nfwmZoxdXnkqNvdHxv2ttS4CqKVFBc0ep8gqGv80gdfils2yYc0QW51AIZ7cs/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+21.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stormy weather</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedrOMflfDJxTNTPJBsIB37s1PaQYl9ByJGV94NUrmVpuC9yzh-8oaP5wk6Ei3v3egLDfdxys71qjD7GmD2qUTgUhnlutApSU0Qp8nlnn4yL424NCIL_0Yl3aNBvjBQXVNgpZWeDMtEmw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedrOMflfDJxTNTPJBsIB37s1PaQYl9ByJGV94NUrmVpuC9yzh-8oaP5wk6Ei3v3egLDfdxys71qjD7GmD2qUTgUhnlutApSU0Qp8nlnn4yL424NCIL_0Yl3aNBvjBQXVNgpZWeDMtEmw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+22.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_u7FyTHbZeDtTPub3XxVz6YFr1G7JKHW4Riii9JhufaahXoTjfVoKg0-RLpw7KDzx_lLzsTbmDIDM0gwq8cTy5daCq1ZJYEARhkmS2Wrhhp7J93prYepb7ugDYi_4ts7Q_NbXbHDH_w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb_u7FyTHbZeDtTPub3XxVz6YFr1G7JKHW4Riii9JhufaahXoTjfVoKg0-RLpw7KDzx_lLzsTbmDIDM0gwq8cTy5daCq1ZJYEARhkmS2Wrhhp7J93prYepb7ugDYi_4ts7Q_NbXbHDH_w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+23.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A long queue to get into the temple itself in temperatures of around 40 degrees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6lcSJRXEr7KQtr9u_xHSh3psE5cePhKvFEQcgvxdvPMOxKvRvFAmFZeaMQD9CG99Ff5dAxcwbAL0sfjH3ML6BbaYREm6zWv__HucWQ_dcY8YSgNXxQSBOwHJ020mwr_MzIK_D7rj4Zg/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq6lcSJRXEr7KQtr9u_xHSh3psE5cePhKvFEQcgvxdvPMOxKvRvFAmFZeaMQD9CG99Ff5dAxcwbAL0sfjH3ML6BbaYREm6zWv__HucWQ_dcY8YSgNXxQSBOwHJ020mwr_MzIK_D7rj4Zg/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+24.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stunning chandelier and gold ceiling that adorns the entrance to the causeway. You can't take photos whilst inside the temple. Inside are gurus sat on cushions chanting from sacred books, surrounded by devotees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-goPnLkKNRAgTMAshMDXdx-UAMkreYdLZh2vG24kZ99mZcZi8e0pYreDAkZN399XUgFD72hik4Wn3Nte_bssR9i5K_3HbwmRRhP0wSZNdQ7SzC-q9HFOMPE32jj_1irOwAFNw8J8_5Y/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-goPnLkKNRAgTMAshMDXdx-UAMkreYdLZh2vG24kZ99mZcZi8e0pYreDAkZN399XUgFD72hik4Wn3Nte_bssR9i5K_3HbwmRRhP0wSZNdQ7SzC-q9HFOMPE32jj_1irOwAFNw8J8_5Y/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+25.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the four gates</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhdZrNhGF16QtO0dhCW6CiitIiTATfm9_8iwEG9nBm-J1zM-otnAG4D4mMYSXvqjnQUYVN_erPhC1kyxpdxlyz-_3OnZ1eew_zA84L_iIzCTMZAibPRdNxwb3W2YjA1oOOMEXTx9RURs/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhdZrNhGF16QtO0dhCW6CiitIiTATfm9_8iwEG9nBm-J1zM-otnAG4D4mMYSXvqjnQUYVN_erPhC1kyxpdxlyz-_3OnZ1eew_zA84L_iIzCTMZAibPRdNxwb3W2YjA1oOOMEXTx9RURs/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+26.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the queue are folk of all ages, all with their heads covered.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBG7GYSDECH7_Gkg0O0TXluj-xoZc4t5kuQkwI4CGBskLh0NGFuwjI7nS-m5aLB2SvnxZme2QX4Mk2SSiIY-L83AisMMAXAsCKVHVE70Y7CPKuN_24mHEBuLcLlZMdiWsI3XZ0kQjlBY4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBG7GYSDECH7_Gkg0O0TXluj-xoZc4t5kuQkwI4CGBskLh0NGFuwjI7nS-m5aLB2SvnxZme2QX4Mk2SSiIY-L83AisMMAXAsCKVHVE70Y7CPKuN_24mHEBuLcLlZMdiWsI3XZ0kQjlBY4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+27.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once inside the temple, you can go up on to the roof. These are the gold urns that line the terrace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghePMxcjecySwBAMRAcNSRDzslm6vqcbfYRDU2QFlKbdBm4dIkDCzCfkWixEDEfUwQc4aaNBshFmibp6IqDc09zoa8mQn_fjwNIllOzk0jEtoEZR7QlDsBPWu1qBObfzccXNYPaYrOj1w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghePMxcjecySwBAMRAcNSRDzslm6vqcbfYRDU2QFlKbdBm4dIkDCzCfkWixEDEfUwQc4aaNBshFmibp6IqDc09zoa8mQn_fjwNIllOzk0jEtoEZR7QlDsBPWu1qBObfzccXNYPaYrOj1w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+28.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very cool!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg810G2wGfgYkdzyLVd9GCtoPCmhBwHcBd-4EKehQ_VuCQQn7U_Rj88KYJe9Iur5d-o7wFKqIurIlSB4BvAkEM8SqBjxYnJ5M5G0AFZ2gKBRcJjiFSVDdaMv24O25Ox6CGi2MnqQzK9iN8/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg810G2wGfgYkdzyLVd9GCtoPCmhBwHcBd-4EKehQ_VuCQQn7U_Rj88KYJe9Iur5d-o7wFKqIurIlSB4BvAkEM8SqBjxYnJ5M5G0AFZ2gKBRcJjiFSVDdaMv24O25Ox6CGi2MnqQzK9iN8/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+29.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up of that queue. We were lucky as we only had to line up for 15 minutes. <br />
Most people can expect to wait 3-4 hours. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61X5Vjdv4BXAL_Y-KbdJzG9P1eiO9gandhwL7XcHbUI_ic_HXpq52_UaR5Gn2e6S-fiQQLT0ZrX6IpETkzPtpgOZfPnacJRn_BzLZlZTJZYbGWFiYqG34qpGawhLwF6SUjcwMHoCT-RU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61X5Vjdv4BXAL_Y-KbdJzG9P1eiO9gandhwL7XcHbUI_ic_HXpq52_UaR5Gn2e6S-fiQQLT0ZrX6IpETkzPtpgOZfPnacJRn_BzLZlZTJZYbGWFiYqG34qpGawhLwF6SUjcwMHoCT-RU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+30.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very glitzy lighting at night. We thought this may have spoiled the effect? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipoeSPQRMHiRZ_JWY8tdNpd2xNVLchUCwhRjF8YjfHCkYQoPgLp7rkInGhh0OArfjlBjp5ng84XY-5uMdDky2dPJBREvhR42w849iZ4ePOIhSBhDlRszZS4cvHI2AbPsNmwB64HZqVcEE/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipoeSPQRMHiRZ_JWY8tdNpd2xNVLchUCwhRjF8YjfHCkYQoPgLp7rkInGhh0OArfjlBjp5ng84XY-5uMdDky2dPJBREvhR42w849iZ4ePOIhSBhDlRszZS4cvHI2AbPsNmwB64HZqVcEE/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+31.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_X32_GJXPW738ofdBTbq9iR_uqPcbO2rhX_aWxNtG85h4fYGQJSKI-sfmJ4NqYlWPeayD2_B_kpLFHhip75fTSaAYBa58hSmIUz4lyAPEoidRXz0r9G00RrYK-ImCw0w7_VcBGDJVQk/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_X32_GJXPW738ofdBTbq9iR_uqPcbO2rhX_aWxNtG85h4fYGQJSKI-sfmJ4NqYlWPeayD2_B_kpLFHhip75fTSaAYBa58hSmIUz4lyAPEoidRXz0r9G00RrYK-ImCw0w7_VcBGDJVQk/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+33.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhempCiqFPakcZxO54w1AZxeiQ2-5lILYY3z-lmCNaDC1TkazNZ0omKYCaNGWFyFeGWT0mEYe2Qy7bUGn5cE0GdH5pACK9tTzxFDkjELXomqpiQ6WIrQcjkyvNYBVjPJNiHCp23JMdwDxU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhempCiqFPakcZxO54w1AZxeiQ2-5lILYY3z-lmCNaDC1TkazNZ0omKYCaNGWFyFeGWT0mEYe2Qy7bUGn5cE0GdH5pACK9tTzxFDkjELXomqpiQ6WIrQcjkyvNYBVjPJNiHCp23JMdwDxU/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+34.jpg" height="640" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very interesting face and very interesting uniform...not sure what it is</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3UUSfj9GTZzJDcaen03Uzss9lvD0Wy-rhMvrYyzdzcP4bABtYMSO6xvjVLDzxohgnr0UWwiK2xRJF1eAl_YxqjhfLwFkItdWyL06H4p09lz7DAGaoWx_Uv1Fwrlqtl_fchPuYYN9XMI/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf3UUSfj9GTZzJDcaen03Uzss9lvD0Wy-rhMvrYyzdzcP4bABtYMSO6xvjVLDzxohgnr0UWwiK2xRJF1eAl_YxqjhfLwFkItdWyL06H4p09lz7DAGaoWx_Uv1Fwrlqtl_fchPuYYN9XMI/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+35.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8xHfcHAZkwS2w1Vo0b3dPBStm1h4JjsVMohKq7bTizx6p2kSjxEaiGTWDg5sCtpvRXRRMSKTrgQ-E7W2_XH-Y6YwrhbAI8JsJTPFZMfmuRK2TJ_wguwsXuWMQ5VMO-G0xniCk-Q09xw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw8xHfcHAZkwS2w1Vo0b3dPBStm1h4JjsVMohKq7bTizx6p2kSjxEaiGTWDg5sCtpvRXRRMSKTrgQ-E7W2_XH-Y6YwrhbAI8JsJTPFZMfmuRK2TJ_wguwsXuWMQ5VMO-G0xniCk-Q09xw/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+36.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely Sikh family line up for a photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzYjDGnQj6NmTb2y63z5ipOhPWRhc3eLltCFtPSeddHXAEYZJ7dQnGToDKTFbuGgDTuvloZPieULjgWdYGWRt-40kikpnvK5cq-byVynI61sIrG0CfwPiL6a9BymhngWCQRHaIe__ZB4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzYjDGnQj6NmTb2y63z5ipOhPWRhc3eLltCFtPSeddHXAEYZJ7dQnGToDKTFbuGgDTuvloZPieULjgWdYGWRt-40kikpnvK5cq-byVynI61sIrG0CfwPiL6a9BymhngWCQRHaIe__ZB4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+38.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little boy has his turban re-wrapped by dad after taking a dip in the Sarovar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyctJPwDBZSMRT9UOc7x-dgHMQ0CB-VAlkiE4XU1SHHqdlURtEOs6lcC0t0pVcP458a2sT7CFePn8-m6YapJt0TUU72b-DvRw_IMyCKmAhPAonSS4ta3UrW2ncUHd46tWLmlUPGzNPCs4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyctJPwDBZSMRT9UOc7x-dgHMQ0CB-VAlkiE4XU1SHHqdlURtEOs6lcC0t0pVcP458a2sT7CFePn8-m6YapJt0TUU72b-DvRw_IMyCKmAhPAonSS4ta3UrW2ncUHd46tWLmlUPGzNPCs4/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+39.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pastel green is sooooo this season!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5SFSkRJ4_yKPWIiF6FjDmFH2kYHj7b4bMATk52HKiPg718lGBW_NdpC0WKZTxz4Z9FE4fxQ3SSWa391Y70-HnSvDbZFY5Cu8k1BxII-GZucAF6mDDfAMrqqHDq7xlgJITLAJWAqOqdA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5SFSkRJ4_yKPWIiF6FjDmFH2kYHj7b4bMATk52HKiPg718lGBW_NdpC0WKZTxz4Z9FE4fxQ3SSWa391Y70-HnSvDbZFY5Cu8k1BxII-GZucAF6mDDfAMrqqHDq7xlgJITLAJWAqOqdA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+40.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwSDBH45Bs6oJBSYpcE8kJzk7pZYygU24n8XqQph04pbMcsDtvFKxyKZ5KoMOE9LJUsoYb8xCau1O2KcmBOoh6x-fdvak8wWIqy0erWCeBhfPTdv4griEnw0EyqxRr7s6tqmwC9C5pME/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwSDBH45Bs6oJBSYpcE8kJzk7pZYygU24n8XqQph04pbMcsDtvFKxyKZ5KoMOE9LJUsoYb8xCau1O2KcmBOoh6x-fdvak8wWIqy0erWCeBhfPTdv4griEnw0EyqxRr7s6tqmwC9C5pME/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+41.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVG8O1bWVOWxfmRaNQokx-t0ndgnZEXy9eL8TQy4OWVPYfE8h1PQmspPaM1yKPqTG0tb2MWY1ItznmNonjpkd5F4aVj8Ws2ws3fnjba1Fs-K9VoZtu3TvASESv9XnonFxzfFVH9TN03UQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVG8O1bWVOWxfmRaNQokx-t0ndgnZEXy9eL8TQy4OWVPYfE8h1PQmspPaM1yKPqTG0tb2MWY1ItznmNonjpkd5F4aVj8Ws2ws3fnjba1Fs-K9VoZtu3TvASESv9XnonFxzfFVH9TN03UQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+42.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A team of volunteers help to keep the place spotlessly clean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_HJrSSutEL4A7meZkeNtGJ8wumWIiEmFooZ0u2nnutCnzpIMACbsEm5j2BHZ157-hkOccMGIhIPykbBOIyD1OCVdib7KnNwWl6z3-YcfriPWd2H_l-aOTVlmSnqwBHX3XvlunWZem-c/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_HJrSSutEL4A7meZkeNtGJ8wumWIiEmFooZ0u2nnutCnzpIMACbsEm5j2BHZ157-hkOccMGIhIPykbBOIyD1OCVdib7KnNwWl6z3-YcfriPWd2H_l-aOTVlmSnqwBHX3XvlunWZem-c/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+43.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise begins to appear through the clouds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7EjjVXHDImGzqlhQf2Ks1ghKrsTSwBgdffBYSamQu2KlQ6KBlSzaPlsDlL4hJZKHZpL7yXjXPypKPyRnIk_FpGPjLlOtXR-w_O_JyZY-PYAxO-ZOjSVp65FXDR4Ziar9qRmiLpqbcrQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7EjjVXHDImGzqlhQf2Ks1ghKrsTSwBgdffBYSamQu2KlQ6KBlSzaPlsDlL4hJZKHZpL7yXjXPypKPyRnIk_FpGPjLlOtXR-w_O_JyZY-PYAxO-ZOjSVp65FXDR4Ziar9qRmiLpqbcrQ/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+44.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78cF7heyzSejEBK-WPJODZd4mItImLqE3K9mBZYlopLOGDCC9RGO0ua97qUcn4AVW_1tISvQbY7HbP3xMUc984RG9Ume7jb1nvPXf6fz4nAdbOBOEvf_uRD-0SSTaxtOEiRIVxH2AAEA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh78cF7heyzSejEBK-WPJODZd4mItImLqE3K9mBZYlopLOGDCC9RGO0ua97qUcn4AVW_1tISvQbY7HbP3xMUc984RG9Ume7jb1nvPXf6fz4nAdbOBOEvf_uRD-0SSTaxtOEiRIVxH2AAEA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+45.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qZn1KK_g3hmoQoRUM3eOEhdeh_ni0kQt3-pmgHFtAnh91UMHiHrGkShyphenhyphenkLLRUaSCSxqeHhMx4O6Kbz2I7siLURu3yMmE9uN-Db8CBIyr5R68lxwa6extIda5X-kNT1DjxvYzkJIripA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qZn1KK_g3hmoQoRUM3eOEhdeh_ni0kQt3-pmgHFtAnh91UMHiHrGkShyphenhyphenkLLRUaSCSxqeHhMx4O6Kbz2I7siLURu3yMmE9uN-Db8CBIyr5R68lxwa6extIda5X-kNT1DjxvYzkJIripA/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+47.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PeUNOKDs06SjAtjxkWBdWj1zSloI_hYVx4g25vcTh3orumUKtCGqtvUguEmGlszmzTtT4KIO3p5waPLhBDxmU-EZky2A6UKr1Vrg30BU8IM1bKr_wfDM4Eh2vU3uZfESuy926v-qd_w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PeUNOKDs06SjAtjxkWBdWj1zSloI_hYVx4g25vcTh3orumUKtCGqtvUguEmGlszmzTtT4KIO3p5waPLhBDxmU-EZky2A6UKr1Vrg30BU8IM1bKr_wfDM4Eh2vU3uZfESuy926v-qd_w/s1600/Golden-Temple-Amritsar+-+48.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More of the volunteers who cook up offering to take into the temple.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Come back another time for a post about the Wagah Border Ceremony!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-26117600240552552682014-04-30T17:24:00.002+05:302014-05-01T13:52:33.178+05:30My A-Z of Mumbai Food<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I found that writing my '<a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/04/my-z-of-mumbai-places.html" target="_blank">A-Z of Mumbai Places</a>' to be quite addictive. So much so, that I thought I would challenge myself with an 'A-Z of Mumbai Food'. The good thing about doing this in a city like Mumbai, is that it is OK to cheat slightly by mentioning recipes and ingredients brought to the city by centuries of itinerant workers. After all, Mumbai is a melting-pot of regional cuisines. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can at least honestly say that I have experienced all of these foods for myself and enjoyed every single one of them. I hope that you too enjoy my list - I am sure that any Mumbaikars reading it will find the recommendations a bit basic. On the other hand - I would urge any expats on this page to try <i>everything</i>! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A Aloo Gobi</span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
As Mr Jules and I are not vegetarians, we tend to order this as a side dish to a meat curry - a simple north Indian dish of potato and cauliflower cooked with typical spices. It is also very nice as a simple veggie lunch when accompanied by a Roti (flat bread), and is easy for the inexperienced foreigner to <a href="http://www.tarladalal.com/Aloo-Gobhi-22792r" target="_blank">cook themselves</a>. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>B Bhel Puri</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Every street of Mumbai has its own <i>Bhelwala</i> - Bhel Puri is one of the most popular <i>chaats</i> sold in the city. A <i>chaat</i> is basically a savoury snack and there are more mentioned in this list. Like the other chaats, it is the blend of crunchy sev, onions, potatoes, chutneys and papad that makes this so amazingly more-ish!</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>C Chicken Berry Pulav</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
I have mentioned this dish in quite a few blogs, especially the one about <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/09/britannia-best-loved-restaurant-in.html" target="_blank">Britannia</a> restaurant from where this dish hails. A Parsi dish, it is a heavenly mix of scented rice, chicken balls and the specially imported <i>barberries</i> from Iran. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmmdnerT3PQWxuHmZt1VBLvdJoaEqjzqaP_JA9Lp8fRCu26qE0CV4h7kR1pSbNDqd8h3ilkcLQfINnROiVP-4jevaSzIJa8a3V9hgdJ68-4MfWKqq5rDJGOQefr3na2xnvqDUMwUWgqs/s1600/Britannia+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmmdnerT3PQWxuHmZt1VBLvdJoaEqjzqaP_JA9Lp8fRCu26qE0CV4h7kR1pSbNDqd8h3ilkcLQfINnROiVP-4jevaSzIJa8a3V9hgdJ68-4MfWKqq5rDJGOQefr3na2xnvqDUMwUWgqs/s1600/Britannia+030.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The legendary Chicken Berry Pulav at Britannia (with Lentil Dhansak to the left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>D Dhansak</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
OK, so Parsi food is one of my favourite cuisines to be found in Bombay, so there are several dishes mentioned in this list. Dhansak (which is actually a combination of Persian and Gujarati) is a sweet and sour mutton curry made with lentils and which accompanies caramelised brown rice beautifully. <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/vada-pav-at-swati-snacks.html" target="_blank">Swati Snacks</a> do a very nice veg version. In Parsi homes, Dhansak is usually only eaten on Sundays - or on the fourth day after the death of a relative (as no meat is eaten in the three days prior).</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>E Eggs Akuri</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Yet another Parsi favourite, this is simply a spicy scrambled egg dish - mostly eaten for breakfast. Eat it with Pav or Roti. I have sampled it at the Parsi eaterie Ideal Corner in Fort and had it several times as a hotel breakfast.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>F Farsan</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Farsan</i> is the collective term given to snacks originating from Gujarat. I first encountered them not long after I arrived in Mumbai, when someone purchased a load from Punjabi Sweet House in Bandra and brought them to our home. I next had them at <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/10/soam-beginners-guide-to-pani-puri.html" target="_blank">Soam</a> where the friendly restaurant owner took us through each different type - Dhokla, Khandvi, Ragla and Samosas (being Gujarati, these are all vegetarian). </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>G Gujarati Thali</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
If your eyes are bigger than your stomach, then this probably isn't the meal to try! My two best experiences have been at <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/woman-v-thali.html" target="_blank">Rajdhani</a> in Phoenix Mills (when my belly nearly popped!) and at MG House in <a href="http://ombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/10/24-hours-in-ahmedabad.html" target="_blank">Ahmedabad</a> (where else should one try at Thali but in the Gujarati capital?). A Thali is basically a large tray on which up to six smaller dishes are placed, which are then filled by the waiter with all sorts of vegetarian goodies. In the spaces, you are provided with rice, breads, pickles and dessert. The Thali is repeatedly topped up until you say STOP!</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4xQT-_8yX5aRbf6d8hl1h4WVKWkPIow_ANBD9lOmbi8EPY7dmvuRLEyFmSJPy-f13ITCtVuMw0NwWMvWMOkmvVfZXrNuQIphUOYlZPA2Q2teRufDhiGAR0elhyM5LnHg9-npiLGh7kI/s1600/Ahmedabad+059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4xQT-_8yX5aRbf6d8hl1h4WVKWkPIow_ANBD9lOmbi8EPY7dmvuRLEyFmSJPy-f13ITCtVuMw0NwWMvWMOkmvVfZXrNuQIphUOYlZPA2Q2teRufDhiGAR0elhyM5LnHg9-npiLGh7kI/s1600/Ahmedabad+059.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gujarati style Thali</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">H Hyderabadi Biryani</span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
My kingdom for a chicken biryani! And the most famous of them...the Hyderabadi biryani. Biryani is a baked rice dish made with rice, yoghurt, onions, spices, lemon and coriander leaves (to name but a few). Usually lamb is used but I prefer chicken as does our driver Peter, who I am sure eats chicken biryani every single lunchtime! Biryani was invented when the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb conquered Southern India - it was the blending of Mughlai and Telugu cuisines by the Hyderabadi Nizam chefs that resulted in the Hyderabadi Biryani. Try <a href="http://www.zomato.com/mumbai/the-golconda-bowl-bandra-west" target="_blank">Golconda Bowl</a> for some of the best Hyderabadi cuisine in Mumbai.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>I Idli</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
I love these soft, steamed rice pancakes for breakfast (usually if I am staying in a hotel as I can't make them myself). Idlis are a traditional South Indian breakfast so you will commonly find them in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. They are also easily found in Mumbai, especially at Matunga's south Indian eateries such as Cafe Madras and <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/12/sunday-morning-indian-breakfast-in.html" target="_blank">Anand Bhavan</a>. Made with fermented black lentils and rice, Idlis are served with chutney and sambar (a spicy, watery soup). </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>J Jalebi</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Jalebis - sugar and wheat deep fried in oil...what could be more healthy? These sickly sweet chewy spirals are popular all over India and even in North Africa. I first had them on a <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/the-fort-finely-chopped-food-walk.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">Finely Chopped Food Walk</a>, and thought that I wouldn't be able to manage even one (as I don't have a particularly sweet tooth). But I found the Jalebis to be strangely more-ish and ended up eating five in a row! </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIg4KXqA_c7FuQRYWOoScJ882mtw8ny88_nkMbwhpVSUFYm3TF1eg1dRzuKVCq2PX-bQkVaAdnKw7E-bkxhpHQiTINjRqrCyxoLSH6zvO8_DuxWpjtadKzd1Ehf443FlVegCiJlQDkaU/s1600/DSC_1068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnIg4KXqA_c7FuQRYWOoScJ882mtw8ny88_nkMbwhpVSUFYm3TF1eg1dRzuKVCq2PX-bQkVaAdnKw7E-bkxhpHQiTINjRqrCyxoLSH6zvO8_DuxWpjtadKzd1Ehf443FlVegCiJlQDkaU/s1600/DSC_1068.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalebiwala - Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">K Kheema </span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
No one seems to be sure who invented this minced mutton curry dish (usually accompanied by a buttered Pav breadbun) - it may have been the Persians; it may have been the Hyderabadi Nizams; it could even have been the South Indians. No matter - because even though there are probably hundreds of different versions to be found in Mumbai, the basic premise is the same. There is an excellent article about Kheema and the varying styles on <a href="http://mumbaiboss.com/2012/11/26/where-to-try-different-styles-of-kheema-in-mumbai/" target="_blank">Mumbai Boss</a>, with some great restaurant recommendations. (Although the recommendation I hear over and over again is the Irani version at Cafe Military, Fort. I shall make that my next stop!)</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">L Lassi</span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
My other kingdom for a mango Lassi! Lassi is basically a yoghurt drink which can be plain or blended with fruit (such as mango) - and can be salty as well as sweet. Sometimes it is topped with spices such as cardamom but I am not so keen on this. I was well versed in the Lassi before I came to India (as they are commonly on the menus of British curry houses) but nothing prepared me for the version I had at <span style="text-align: left;">the Punjabi Moti Halval in Fort. These Lassis were sweet and thick - so thick in fact, that you needed a spoon to drink(eat) it. Luscious.</span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCicw9KOt8zKBxJgl0prEV3BJiLxVK5yAnjhgCW5I4bhS93G_KPwhZjkrmPcxMLtzXTkwVFN2ERTpH9c36WMOz7QOJCkZipgFcjXUj0C7E0iRhwTl6ULssHdYIsEDOtVytNworWoeMF5Q/s1600/DSC_0987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCicw9KOt8zKBxJgl0prEV3BJiLxVK5yAnjhgCW5I4bhS93G_KPwhZjkrmPcxMLtzXTkwVFN2ERTpH9c36WMOz7QOJCkZipgFcjXUj0C7E0iRhwTl6ULssHdYIsEDOtVytNworWoeMF5Q/s1600/DSC_0987.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassi that you need a spoon for - Punjabi Moti Halval, Fort</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>M Mysore Masala Dosa</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
OK, if I had a third kingdom, then I think I would definitely trade it for a Mysore Masala Dosa. These fabulous South Indian pancakes filled with spicy potato never disappoint. The Dosa - architectural masterpieces - are made with fermented rice and dal batter, a thin layer of which is then ladled on to a griddle (<i>tava</i>) greased with ghee. The resulting pancake (which is a thin as can possibly be) is then rolled around some spiced '<i>aloo</i>' (potato) and served with chutney and sambar. An absolute must-have in Mumbai (Soam or Swati Snacks). There are other variants such as the Rava Dosa or Sada Dosa. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>N Nimbu Pani</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
It's just lemonade! Made with fresh Nimbus of course and sweetened with sugar. Nimbus are small Indian lemons that look more like limes. Pani is Hindi for water. Very refreshing in hot Mumbai and helps to prevent dehydration, especially if you add salt instead of sugar.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>O Oh Calcutta!</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
I couldn't think of anything for 'O' except for Okra and that should really come under B for Bhindi. So I will therefore mention the famous Bengal eatery <a href="http://www.zomato.com/mumbai/oh-calcutta-tardeo" target="_blank">Oh Calcutta! </a> Bengali cuisine is very distinctive from lots of other Indian cooking and has an emphasis on fish and fiery flavours. Black mustard seeds are a prevalent ingredient and Bengalis use a freshly ground mustard paste in a lot of their cooking. At 'Oh Calcutta', you will find a fish-orientated menu but be prepared to find the odd fish head in your meal. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>P Pani Puri</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
This is probably the most fun Mumbai street food you can eat. And I love it! Crispy, hollow puris that you fill yourself with a mixture of potato, moong, chutneys and then minted water - and then try to get into your mouth all in one go without it cracking and slipping down your front! See <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/10/soam-beginners-guide-to-pani-puri.html" target="_blank">here</a> for my in depth demonstration of how to eat Pani Puri (which can beautifully sampled at Soam, of course). For anyone who is wondering why I did not mention the Mumbai street-food staple - Pav Baji - apologies!</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaWDO8XkAi6CV1T1ryEVTski-GR6dR-P3kf5Qokm_1iDhTABD-xKPccYYLlldy657izD8aAW6ivOM7Dq8Om7bI_vOyDblE5uWEWYQFTdBGz3HyD2PXbTEUJs9nxITlku730_ZI01YZ3I/s1600/Ganpati+084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaWDO8XkAi6CV1T1ryEVTski-GR6dR-P3kf5Qokm_1iDhTABD-xKPccYYLlldy657izD8aAW6ivOM7Dq8Om7bI_vOyDblE5uWEWYQFTdBGz3HyD2PXbTEUJs9nxITlku730_ZI01YZ3I/s1600/Ganpati+084.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-constructed Pani Puri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Q Quinoa Taboule </b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
OK, so Q was difficult and it isn't an Indian dish...but the Quinoa Taboule at the Yoga House in Bandra is really good! (And isn't it nice to have something so healthy after consuming all that ghee?). Made with quinoa (pronounced keenwa), tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes, spring onions, parsley and lemon - it's light on the tongue and light on the belly. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>R Rawas</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Us westerners are not going to get home-grown cod, salmon and tuna in India - but instead Bombay Duck (Bombil), Rawas and Basa fish. <i>Rawas</i> - otherwise known as Indian Salmon (but nothing like pink salmon) is a seasonal fish which is probably the most popular in India. It is widely used in Malvani cuisine, which hails from the Konkan coastline of Goa and Maharashtra - and which is also easily found in Mumbai. Have a delicious Rawas Gassi at <a href="http://www.zomato.com/mumbai/mahesh-lunch-home-juhu" target="_blank">Mahesh Lunch Home</a>.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>S Salli Boti & Sevi Puri</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
I was too torn to list one thing under 'S', as both Salli Boti and Sev Puri are toooo delicious! Salli Boti is (yet another) Parsi dish consisting of a lamb stew/curry topped off with crunchy potato matchsticks Find it at Britannia, Ideal Corner and Jumjoji in Bandra. Sev Puri is my number one Mumbai Street Food/chaat. It consists of discs of puri topped off with potato, tomato, chutney, onions and crunchy sev (vermicelli). Even better is Dahi Sev Puri which is covered with yoghurt (dahi). Sound weird? Don't knock it till you've tried it - every visitor that I have taken to Soam to sample Sev Puri has found it completely addictive.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJNhS3gNTs4tKgpYwRuK5SZMmjmB9SmmLM-Eh5GzY8dH3PgAon-DwFBewQIrc_oxXCfYzy0IrRqK_k-V87dJ6TWKQrK2okc-5FiwgPlDEsqFmzIcNRtxjMrrpy_kctD5LuwtIaDhZMRg/s1600/Ganpati+083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhJNhS3gNTs4tKgpYwRuK5SZMmjmB9SmmLM-Eh5GzY8dH3PgAon-DwFBewQIrc_oxXCfYzy0IrRqK_k-V87dJ6TWKQrK2okc-5FiwgPlDEsqFmzIcNRtxjMrrpy_kctD5LuwtIaDhZMRg/s1600/Ganpati+083.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crunchy and zingy - Sev Puri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>T Thalipeeth</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Perhaps the most unusual dish on this list (to us foreigners anyway) is Thalipeeth. I have only tried it a couple of times, one of them on a <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/05/a-very-fine-finely-chopped-food-walk.html" target="_blank">Finely Chopped Food Walk</a> around Dadar. It is a particularly Maharashtrian dish - kind of multi-grain patty made from roasted chickpea dal, urad dal, spices, wheat and rice. Thalipeeth has especially stuck in my mind because you have to eat it with a great big dollop of fat - in the form of water buffalo milk butter. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">U Uttapam</span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
This entry is dedicated to my mate <a href="http://maximumcitymadam.blogspot.in/" target="_blank">MaximumCityMadam</a> who is addicted to Uttapam. She loves going to the airport, just so that she can have it for breakfast! Originating from Tamil Nadu - it is another form of pancake made from fermented rice and dal. It is almost something in between the idli and the dosa - for the centre is soft and the outer edges crispy. Again, it is usually eaten with sambar and chutney.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>V Vada Pav</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
My husband's No. 1: The simple Vada Pav consists of a spicy fried potato patty inside a bread bun slathered with butter. Simple, effective and cheap. Our driver pays no more than 12 Rs for his from a street stall but you can sample this at <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/vada-pav-at-swati-snacks.html" target="_blank">Swati Snacks</a> for 130 Rs for a double helping. Delicious! (Please find an alternative V for Vindaloo described on my blog <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/12/vindaloo-very-misunderstood-curry.html" target="_blank">here</a>).</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkxEKUnAgAlaiK7IXDgcVh8dW12e44Vu92qopQDi_tQX7e05X-z-2pZxioPY41dAXz3Cc7bN8T4_zK7JE5SfYwDWCR-A_y-yeYf9CC9sUWbN6oN3rRFGAw1M_LFE4NSj-ivv_T5PGhiY/s1600/DSC06814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkxEKUnAgAlaiK7IXDgcVh8dW12e44Vu92qopQDi_tQX7e05X-z-2pZxioPY41dAXz3Cc7bN8T4_zK7JE5SfYwDWCR-A_y-yeYf9CC9sUWbN6oN3rRFGAw1M_LFE4NSj-ivv_T5PGhiY/s1600/DSC06814.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vada Pav - Swati Snacks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>W Watermelon Juice</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
This is really an excuse to mention the famous <a href="http://www.hajialijuicecentre.in/index.php" target="_blank">Haji Ali Juice Centre</a> that adorns the entrance to the causeway of the Haji Ali Dargah. It probably has just as many visitors as the mosque itself, if the crowds I see outside are anything to go by. Every possible juice under the sun is available here with special attention being given to seasonal fruits. You can also get milkshakes, faloodas and snacks. A glass of watermelon juice will set you back 80 Rs though - quite expensive to the average Mumbaikar. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>X Xacuti</b></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Chicken (or prawn or lamb) Xacuti - is a Goan speciality. You can often find it on British curry house menus but the first authentic version I sampled was when we stayed at the Taj Exotica in Goa. A Xacuti (pronounced Shakooti) is heavy on coconut and onion and contains lots and lots of spices! But its complexity is what makes it so interesting and tasty. Try chicken, prawn or lamb Xacuti at the Goan restaurant, <a href="http://www.zomato.com/mumbai/soul-fry-bandra-west" target="_blank">Soul Fry</a> in Bandra</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Y Yellow Dal Khichdi</span></b></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
When I first started working for the NGO in my first three months in Mumbai, I would eat this daily. I was practically addicted to the stuff and would go and collect it from the restaurant next door to the office myself. So it's got a bit of sentimental value to me. What exactly is Yellow Dal Khichdi? All it is, is rice mixed with moong daal (gram), ginger-garlic, onions and mild spices. You can make a version of it by simply mixing cooked basmati rice with dal tadka. Khichdi provides comfort food to all Indians, whether they be rich or poor. Due to being nutrient dense, it is also fed to small children. Of course - as with so many Indian foods, there are lots of different recipes and many variants in spelling.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Z Ziya</b></span> </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Not much on the Z front (other than Zomato to which I have linked here many times) - so I will mention Ziya - the north Indian restaurant at the Oberoi in Nariman Point. At Ziya, I had the most expensive - and not particularly remarkable - Indian meal I have ever eaten. Plush surroundings, but a lack of atmosphere and ridiculous prices makes this an eatery I don't plan to return to!</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Thanks for looking :-)</i></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-30664218124473022732014-04-29T14:03:00.002+05:302014-04-29T16:14:56.018+05:30Ubiquitous India: No 5 - The Cart<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Indian cart surely has to be a design classic? A design that doesn't falter - four large spindly wheels on a sturdy frame with a wooden top. And there is just no way that you would <i>not</i> see one of these if you were to go outside today. They are to be found everywhere and they have a multitude of uses. These unmotorised trollies are the perfect size for one-man-band business - they can be pushed fully loaded by just one person and are big enough to carry enough stock from which that person can make a living. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZbGbjTgNx1uRHn_VCOU4XOFV35E421NDBO1a_ztdj1FkawRZyTrFwyGvJ0tZ3_lJcqHnkX1ErzpXtNWjJNbJq2h4cpk2i1xy7nCA4yy2GKuNeEeBABbvMwU8kotmwummjjdSj9jMo6g/s1600/Mumbai+Mar12+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZbGbjTgNx1uRHn_VCOU4XOFV35E421NDBO1a_ztdj1FkawRZyTrFwyGvJ0tZ3_lJcqHnkX1ErzpXtNWjJNbJq2h4cpk2i1xy7nCA4yy2GKuNeEeBABbvMwU8kotmwummjjdSj9jMo6g/s1600/Mumbai+Mar12+068.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">This cart on a street corner near my home holds a carefully built pyramid of sweet limes. <br />
The produce changes frequently depending on what's in season.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You mostly see them on street corners carrying the latest in-season fruit or veg. Just the one choice - be it mangos, strawberries, grapes, jackfruit etc etc. But they are so versatile that I have seen them being used to carry music equipment in a parade, I've seen goats sitting on them and I've seen them being used to haul Gods across Mumbai during Ganpati. There is even a cart at one of the offices where I work that has been painted and converted into a kitchen table. It looks very cool!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As with all my Ubiquitous India posts...I have lots of photos:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULAoxa9K94jcGDCv4QF0dcI6wGpKRU90B2_YBHt9_bzj118j8U7pZ9UgCYHlXm0LGb3CJgvvhxdS04NXFJw-zMmWcrSY-mKmjto6fpQPTYzcZjfp5_1FAtYmldA7Q8U5HHIvQGy_6YGE/s1600/DSC00723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULAoxa9K94jcGDCv4QF0dcI6wGpKRU90B2_YBHt9_bzj118j8U7pZ9UgCYHlXm0LGb3CJgvvhxdS04NXFJw-zMmWcrSY-mKmjto6fpQPTYzcZjfp5_1FAtYmldA7Q8U5HHIvQGy_6YGE/s1600/DSC00723.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Housewives surround this cart in squalid conditions to haggle for potatoes (Khar)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiodVEzHxry85HuHKJzCavrrHXPkFQLNoRc1AtM7KfDoTI_zyWjkSnwiZk_m6VKEwTJE0vn4cI1EXFhwnhovLmCVFe3EJRUdfyi70LCDrt_DyMPtc5kut3nJcBSI50W22BYtozGXHWGQ/s1600/DSC00760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiodVEzHxry85HuHKJzCavrrHXPkFQLNoRc1AtM7KfDoTI_zyWjkSnwiZk_m6VKEwTJE0vn4cI1EXFhwnhovLmCVFe3EJRUdfyi70LCDrt_DyMPtc5kut3nJcBSI50W22BYtozGXHWGQ/s1600/DSC00760.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This trolley is being used to carry music equipment during a parade (and has it's own DJ by the looks of it!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Xmbp25Y45uMq7OFTkyn6lQ2697RJSD3Qtj2yVc61SuYK8A0IE2mrQjxpzeT6CZGB88GSEsI5bvu2Mo4HXRWi9af3QnFfXB8RcoYu_mZzSKululgiXGKdeM8JZzRU6vzLzlC5LjnzUtA/s1600/DSC_4413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Xmbp25Y45uMq7OFTkyn6lQ2697RJSD3Qtj2yVc61SuYK8A0IE2mrQjxpzeT6CZGB88GSEsI5bvu2Mo4HXRWi9af3QnFfXB8RcoYu_mZzSKululgiXGKdeM8JZzRU6vzLzlC5LjnzUtA/s1600/DSC_4413.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Worli Fishing Village - a goat rests on this cart!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0C9HY-gybbIF0gsyZ8yhaBmUDP7Q4SsMhlA0fcMVltZciDdqJ-bcAGNYXzVVyCQuw68iGXFZNuvHKFiaEqmqSO4pD2s19lDevL6QXfdZXoW6zehluDmSMfaA-CRrAlckb-R_0CaaXTqk/s1600/DSC_9094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0C9HY-gybbIF0gsyZ8yhaBmUDP7Q4SsMhlA0fcMVltZciDdqJ-bcAGNYXzVVyCQuw68iGXFZNuvHKFiaEqmqSO4pD2s19lDevL6QXfdZXoW6zehluDmSMfaA-CRrAlckb-R_0CaaXTqk/s1600/DSC_9094.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Sewri - a vendor sells watermelon juice to truck drivers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI4dilkt057lgGAYH8L0GeSZ3_4_MChUonoSiWIVoSn637kyqoHAAbIbim-nYwde9v-oWPVO6Oz8jx_Pg9o45jorBQW1C49bdStH4xrnCPp9W08lm1s72tjcSeohw8n0E2SjsPEabPuY/s1600/DSC_9566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI4dilkt057lgGAYH8L0GeSZ3_4_MChUonoSiWIVoSn637kyqoHAAbIbim-nYwde9v-oWPVO6Oz8jx_Pg9o45jorBQW1C49bdStH4xrnCPp9W08lm1s72tjcSeohw8n0E2SjsPEabPuY/s1600/DSC_9566.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above and below: When grapes were in season<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp1_soHRk7WdZ_BPQeFQZl5Plz4yPBMhrFuqrJiBvod3TQXF4Lhc59qqgR-0vbJzNMDlmKkeqjDcB5qTIyZ-0jddqpDeg2JSAAlbbZDqaVxU6MKFvWhBW-t9Kh1jN2p0XPmJjFKzKjLo/s1600/DSC_9549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp1_soHRk7WdZ_BPQeFQZl5Plz4yPBMhrFuqrJiBvod3TQXF4Lhc59qqgR-0vbJzNMDlmKkeqjDcB5qTIyZ-0jddqpDeg2JSAAlbbZDqaVxU6MKFvWhBW-t9Kh1jN2p0XPmJjFKzKjLo/s1600/DSC_9549.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFj9tTBm0U92_CGY17dG1FIgP6e6wC9iWOgs8duPX_gb8X0jBxLP7HYeNywRNrfgJnUA-3e31Pc4zRiNwuP4pLsgDf_6LBxPe2kY2gL-Xyj4hw0MYo66OMbr-d1zO9DT6n1TF6b2KzBJI/s1600/DSC_9531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFj9tTBm0U92_CGY17dG1FIgP6e6wC9iWOgs8duPX_gb8X0jBxLP7HYeNywRNrfgJnUA-3e31Pc4zRiNwuP4pLsgDf_6LBxPe2kY2gL-Xyj4hw0MYo66OMbr-d1zO9DT6n1TF6b2KzBJI/s1600/DSC_9531.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A street vendor hauls his stock of tomatoes through the Mumbai traffic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrm9UT8Q7CiLNvHgjwwrczJxzpKIK-MayyMI0XtJc0bkZ_oSeJYpiU4wWUkTqQM8hTzngJsDLlJqynh-EeiinCFQhqoLK_cwa2t_t0xY2TTuNUU4lKfaRefSQKLn51o0Djjg_hGKDGy0/s1600/DSC_9123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrm9UT8Q7CiLNvHgjwwrczJxzpKIK-MayyMI0XtJc0bkZ_oSeJYpiU4wWUkTqQM8hTzngJsDLlJqynh-EeiinCFQhqoLK_cwa2t_t0xY2TTuNUU4lKfaRefSQKLn51o0Djjg_hGKDGy0/s1600/DSC_9123.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found this chap with the rather nice side parting in Dhobi Ghat. Note his old fashioned weighing scales.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsCUXqbqtx1cT1vFcD2J9PTPMu9ZDw2UUlzx2ynSMXjhYoKGEhJdZmFkBhndnYQ3hfVtlarNQY3zQ3RDEdP4NA67A_YWTs9ZdEClvMjsOhBrscU4jvoM7t4D5DjJYUS6OnnYpDRiDM2k/s1600/IMG_2252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsCUXqbqtx1cT1vFcD2J9PTPMu9ZDw2UUlzx2ynSMXjhYoKGEhJdZmFkBhndnYQ3hfVtlarNQY3zQ3RDEdP4NA67A_YWTs9ZdEClvMjsOhBrscU4jvoM7t4D5DjJYUS6OnnYpDRiDM2k/s1600/IMG_2252.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paltry offerings from these Gujurati street vendors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllRgNNXK2AuyqctqxL7g2Y_W2jnG8Ron7ER7Roth_wsPbaM0T-mwYC9V9Wp2WvWktoz74XwaQRJHE3Px2uQvkNi7hfnmQaIKvefPG2ox4Ars0dMRLdrtNg_kUxaV_e_zrPPIn_nQBA-s/s1600/IMG_3976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhllRgNNXK2AuyqctqxL7g2Y_W2jnG8Ron7ER7Roth_wsPbaM0T-mwYC9V9Wp2WvWktoz74XwaQRJHE3Px2uQvkNi7hfnmQaIKvefPG2ox4Ars0dMRLdrtNg_kUxaV_e_zrPPIn_nQBA-s/s1600/IMG_3976.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Aarey Milk Colony - fried foodstuffs and tea available from this lady (note the decorated frame)<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14qChE_5IAu1OY2DHMtsJHbbVx2AT5jvGsq82RZxl6uENqaANZN9hD3CBBqMARU3Rno9pz9jGfQmxzVJQg7CP_JI5WR08Dc106JLicDbYv_mJtRiPZfJ13zaWge8U3B0-Dv6e4vATg_c/s1600/IMG_4341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14qChE_5IAu1OY2DHMtsJHbbVx2AT5jvGsq82RZxl6uENqaANZN9hD3CBBqMARU3Rno9pz9jGfQmxzVJQg7CP_JI5WR08Dc106JLicDbYv_mJtRiPZfJ13zaWge8U3B0-Dv6e4vATg_c/s1600/IMG_4341.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Holi - a rainbow of coloured powders being sold</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkw-uT9oAQy3UZhegVLm94cfLPt6g3ZiXq_fXcO5fk7wAOvfS3EDCDCijPHHDzlukP5lC_N1i3xF3DVXGqL6VjANQGKEfg3MRI12HmAzZ43aGpAtYTWlMXj_pQKuXj6CTdmiyWTtC4fcA/s1600/Jodhpur-Umaid-Bhavan+-+377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkw-uT9oAQy3UZhegVLm94cfLPt6g3ZiXq_fXcO5fk7wAOvfS3EDCDCijPHHDzlukP5lC_N1i3xF3DVXGqL6VjANQGKEfg3MRI12HmAzZ43aGpAtYTWlMXj_pQKuXj6CTdmiyWTtC4fcA/s1600/Jodhpur-Umaid-Bhavan+-+377.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hundreds of neatly stacked baked biscuits (Jodhpur)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukH42FhdfKUnefgcQb5hL70-KhLaSaYF96KJl1HqkddXMEVOxkArHMB1gO39larnBb7g2lCJSpptCr5wGiAGm4079KtgEgF-O8wsKGVeXeU5KEyawX9o0AltxsY2ytefau6S7B-EMvs8/s1600/DSC01546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukH42FhdfKUnefgcQb5hL70-KhLaSaYF96KJl1HqkddXMEVOxkArHMB1gO39larnBb7g2lCJSpptCr5wGiAGm4079KtgEgF-O8wsKGVeXeU5KEyawX9o0AltxsY2ytefau6S7B-EMvs8/s1600/DSC01546.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of room underneath for additional storage!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqeF95-9I2Ut1U95A-DbxfgDlafJxJZ2MMK32H7lq19Z2Isj59BMFUcUClYhUq9hb7Wh8Feo9iwR__6lkFwlqihu2P06uslIM2hdlnoNs1IzT47ZP3VDkZlx1bhK7PaKnGJKNWCrbz74/s1600/DSC01547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqeF95-9I2Ut1U95A-DbxfgDlafJxJZ2MMK32H7lq19Z2Isj59BMFUcUClYhUq9hb7Wh8Feo9iwR__6lkFwlqihu2P06uslIM2hdlnoNs1IzT47ZP3VDkZlx1bhK7PaKnGJKNWCrbz74/s1600/DSC01547.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And today's star attraction? Melons and Mangoes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-56187984910126587782014-04-28T16:43:00.000+05:302014-04-28T18:56:48.972+05:30My A-Z of Mumbai Places<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There has been a blogging challenge going on this month which I did not take part in - called the 'A-Z Blog Challenge', which requires the writer to post every day (except Sundays) thematically. Because I had been travelling quite a bit, I was not able to commit to this even though it sounded fun. But I did later wonder to myself, whether I would be able to write an <i>A-Z Guide to Mumbai Places </i>all in one go. So, after jotting down a list of Mumbai related sights (with only a teeny-weeny bit of help from Google), the answer was a simple yes. Anyway, scrolling through my <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/p/directory.html" target="_blank">Directory</a>, I realised that I had already completed 75% of the list! So here is my A-Z of Mumbai Places (follow the links for pictures):</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/04/beautiful-aarey-milk-colony.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A <span style="color: orange;">Aarey Milk Colony</span></span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favourite places in Mumbai - Aarey is a little bit of English countryside heaven in the middle of the city. An early morning stroll will provide you with bucolic scenes and interactions with local dairy workers. Beautiful! Near Powai.</span></span><br />
<br />
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/07/the-fascinating-dr-bhau-daji-lad-museum.html" target="_blank">B <span style="color: orange;">Bhau Daji Lad Museum</span></a></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">My favourite museum in the city for its beautiful Victorian colonial building and spotlessly clean, well laid out artefacts and dioramas. An absolute must-visit in Byculla. You may find the diorama of the Parsi Towers of Silence particularly fascinating.....</span><br />
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></b>
<b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/06/shop-chor-bazaar-sofa-so-good.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">C <span style="color: orange;">Chor Bazaar</span></a></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The place in Mumbai that most satisfies my antique hunting habit. On Mutton street in particular, browse for solid teak antiques and reproduction furniture, lighting and artefacts. Good luck haggling with the store owners!</span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">D <span style="color: orange;">Dabbawala & Dhobiwala</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mumbai is probably the only city in the world where as a tourist, you can watch lunch delivery men and washermen at work. At around 11.30am at Churchgate, catch the Gandhi-capped <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/the-mumbai-dabbawalas-dabba-dabba-do.html" target="_blank">Dabbawalas</a> who haul huge trays of tiffin boxes off the trains and then sort them for delivery outside the station. Watch as they cycle off, their bikes laden with carefully coded lunches for around 200,000 Mumbai workers. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Similarly, stand on the bridge next to Mahalaxmi station and look down into the world's largest outdoor laundry, <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/03/dhobi-ghat-worlds-largest-outdoor.html" target="_blank">Dhobi Ghat.</a> Go down the stairs and pay a guide for a more in-depth tour of the Ghats. Try not to get in the way of hundreds of Dhobiwalas (washermen) as they clean 250,000 items daily. Fascinating!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSA_dEdzVmEPpQjefKrlfDrtv_acZGCCSAEYH_7hZBfVmejTNxhU_Fs8BN7xipLOh8P9ZXg8tKYKfDGIXja4P09BZuxGPK2ezUCAch14zhKpnUDAfqfAm0DRVAVp_uvUPolYbne_VabwI/s1600/DSC_9308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSA_dEdzVmEPpQjefKrlfDrtv_acZGCCSAEYH_7hZBfVmejTNxhU_Fs8BN7xipLOh8P9ZXg8tKYKfDGIXja4P09BZuxGPK2ezUCAch14zhKpnUDAfqfAm0DRVAVp_uvUPolYbne_VabwI/s1600/DSC_9308.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Dhobiwala</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/01/boat-ride-to-elephanta-island.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">E <span style="color: orange;">Elephanta Island</span></a></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Take the 150 Rs 'deluxe boat' trip to Elephanta Island and you won't be disappointed. Only seven miles out to sea from the Gateway of India, the Island is home to some interesting caves, shrines and temples. But beware of the monkeys who will try to steal your lunch!</span><br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/the-refined-flora-fountain.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">F <span style="color: orange;">Flora Fountain</span></a></b><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Flora Fountain perfectly suits the colonial environs of Fort where it is situated. Constructed in 1864 out of Portland stone, it was designed by Richard Norman Shaw and sculpted by James Forsythe. And is now home to lots of crows.</span><br />
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/06/gateway-of-india.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">G <span style="color: orange;">Gateway of India</span></a></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">The Gateway is described as 'Mumbai's most important structure and tourist attraction'. It was built during the British Raj as a landing place for important folk. Ironically, the last British troops to leave India following Independence, passed through the gateway on their way back out in 1948 - signalling the end of British rule.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/10/instant-weight-loss-at-haji-ali.html" target="_blank">H <span style="color: orange;">Haji Ali Dargah</span></a></b></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Constructed in 1431 in memory of Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari - a rich Muslim merchant who gave up all his wordly possessions - the Dargah is quite an impressive sight from the coast road. However, the causeway leading to the Mosque is lined with disfigured beggars including tiny children which can make the stroll to the end rather uncomfortable. It is at its most busy on Thursdays on Fridays when up to 40,000 Muslims come to receive blessings from the saint.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.iskconmumbai.com/" target="_blank"><b>I <span style="color: orange;">Iskcon Temple</span></b></a></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Right next to Juhu Beach, the ISKCON temple (ISKCON being an abbreviation of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness - or the Hare Krishna Movement) is the most beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in Mumbai. Built in 1978, the complex is one of the most visited in the country - and is a spiritual oasis from the 'dry and demanding material life of the financial and commercial capital of India'. Here you will find a pure vegetarian restaurant, a bakery and a guest house. Follow the link <a href="http://www.iskconmumbai.com/" target="_blank">here</a> for all timings and information about the temple.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/01/kite-flyers-on-juhu-beach.html" target="_blank"><b>H <span style="color: orange;">Juhu Beach</span></b></a></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span><span style="background-color: white;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juhu beach is the nicest beach in Mumbai - it is long, wide and relatively clean and many visitors flock there every day to dip their toes in the (probably not so clean) water. The stretch of beach is lined with fancy hotels and bungalows belonging to Bollywood stars. If you were to walk your dog here first thing in the morning, you don't know who you might bump into!</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
</span></span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>K <span style="color: orange;">Koli Fisherfolk</span></b></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've encountered the tribal Koli Fisherfolk in several places in Mumbai. <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/11/holding-our-noses-at-sassoon-docks.html" target="_blank">Sassoon Docks</a>; <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/worli-fishing-village.html" target="_blank">Worli Fishing Village</a> and <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/01/another-fishy-tale-khar-danda-market.html" target="_blank">Khar Danda Market</a>. Still, these are only a few of the locations that they inhabit around the city. They are the most ancient and original inhabitants of the city, existing in Worli 2,000 years ago when Mumbai was nothing but a cluster of seven islands. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://goindia.about.com/od/shopping/ss/bandrashopping_7.htm" target="_blank">L <span style="color: orange;">Linking Road</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Linking Road is a long stretch of shopping heaven starting almost just after the Sealink turnoff in Bandra and ending in Juhu. Not only are there western branded shops, but hundreds of small street stalls selling shoes, clothes and jewellery. In between you will find street-food stalls and restaurants as well as the big electrical shops, Croma and ViJay Sales.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>M <span style="color: orange;">Malabar Hill</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Malabar Hill in the south of Mumbai is the poshest part of the city. Not only does it house the Chief Minister of Maharashtra's bungalow and various official residences of 'VIP state officials', but you will also find <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/01/scenes-from-banganga-tank.html" target="_blank">Banganga Tank</a> and the Hanging Gardens there (where you can get a fabulous view of the Queen's Necklance - see 'Q' below). You won't find much in the way of night-life or dining-out options in Malabar Hill though...it's a bit boring to be honest!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.cidco.maharashtra.gov.in/NM_Introduction.aspx" target="_blank">N <span style="color: orange;">Navi Mumbai</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the very outer reaches of the city is Navi Mumbai (Navi meaning 'new') - one of the world's largest planned townships to the east and over Vashi flyover. Mostly built on reclaimed land, Navi Mumbai was planned as a way of decongesting Mumbai - an island city where expansion can only take place upwards, and not sideways. A self contained area of about 344 square kilometres containing 95 villages, the redevelopment seeks to provide not just homes, but also jobs/offices, sophisticated transport links and all social facilities and amenities. Building work started in 1972 and still goes on....</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/desk-hunting-at-oshiwara-antiques-market.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank"><b>O <span style="color: orange;">Oshiwara Antiques Market</span></b></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My second favourite place for antiques hunting in Mumbai is the Oshiwara antiques market in Jogeshwari (neither have anything to do with the Japanese!) Like Chor Bazaar, find antique and reproduction furniture in teak and rosewood and lots besides. Haggle with Muslim antiques dealers - mostly named Khan.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/07/queen-of-shops-phoenix-mills.html" target="_blank">P <span style="color: orange;">Phoenix Mills/Palladium</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Phoenix Mills (and it's posh Annexe Palladium) is an oasis of air-conditioned shopping calm in Lower Parel. Find international brands such as Jimmy Choo, Paul Smith and Gucci at Palladium as well as lower end Zara and Tommy Hilfiger. There is also a Hamleys, Nikon and Canon camera shops, Big Bazaar and loads of fashion brands. For the tourist shopper, head to The Bombay Store or Fabindia. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Q <span style="color: orange;">Queen's Necklace</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So called because it sparkles like a string of pearls at nighttime, Marine Drive is the most elegant street in Mumbai. C shaped and 4.3 kilometres long, this boulevard houses the second most prodigious selection of Art Deco architecture in the world (after Miami). It is a romantic stretch - starting at Chowpatty and ending at Nariman Point - where you will find couples sitting on the sea wall canoodling at the weekends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAiNylBw1shAklERqE4-SHPBrU2GsUO-WYrTMcp8_9eWC90pNnJwQr_EvuqKamOsGlQzL-97Ymi0_alX-XCz1NfZNDFDSI-sbXLmxzTncE_uxmobEsi-KgDtDHSgkzDawgyedXBiIC0d4/s1600/Mumbai+by+Night+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAiNylBw1shAklERqE4-SHPBrU2GsUO-WYrTMcp8_9eWC90pNnJwQr_EvuqKamOsGlQzL-97Ymi0_alX-XCz1NfZNDFDSI-sbXLmxzTncE_uxmobEsi-KgDtDHSgkzDawgyedXBiIC0d4/s1600/Mumbai+by+Night+044.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture of the sparkling Queen's Necklace (Marine Drive) taken from Malabar Hill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.radioclub.in/index2.aspx" target="_blank">R <span style="color: orange;">Radio Club</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The famous Radio Club (full name Bombay Presidency Radio Club Ltd) is located in the Bay area of South Mumbai, 100m down from the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Established in 1932 as a place to do radio hamming (!!) and sailing, it has since become second home to paying members from upmarket South Bombay. If you are lucky enough to get invited in, you will find restaurants, sports facilities, a health club and entertainment activities.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/11/holding-our-noses-at-sassoon-docks.html" target="_blank">S <span style="color: orange;">Sassoon Dock</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first thing that strikes you about Sassoon Dock is the smell! But then it would, as it is the main fishing port for the city. Built in 1875 by Albert Abdullah David Sassoon (son of the Baghdadi Jew David Sassoon who built the historic Sassoon Library in Colaba), the docks were originally used to unload valuable cotton. Since the decline of the cotton industry, fishing became the main activity at Sassoon Dock, employing thousands of Koli Fishingfolk ('K' above). Worth a visit for photogenic scenes of fisherpeople at work (but makes sure you get permission to carry your camera first).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>T <span style="color: orange;">Thane Creek</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thane Creek is an inlet in the shoreline of the Arabian Sea that separates the city from the Indian mainland. It has been recognised as an Important Bird Area by the <a href="http://www.bnhs.org/" target="_blank">Bombay Natural History Society </a>and is home to various bird species. Although you will see more <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/the-amazing-flamingos-of-mumbai.html" target="_blank">flamingos at Sewri</a> between January and April, you will also find them here - as well as several other migratory and wading birds (eg egrets, herons, painted storks and spoonbills).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.mu.ac.in/index.html" target="_blank">U <span style="color: orange;">University of Mumbai</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The UoM was established in 1857 during British rule and is one of the first three universities in India. It has two campuses - one at Vidyanagari and one in Fort (housed in a beautiful gothic building). Further sub-campuses can be found in Ratnagiri, Thane and Kalyan and in total there are 56 departments and 691 affiliated colleges! When I first came to Bombay, I had considered doing a course at UoM - but their <a href="http://www.mu.ac.in/index.html" target="_blank">website</a> was so bad and so hard to navigate that I gave up in the end. Probably just as well!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="bodytext" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 11px; margin-left: 17.85pt;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/945" target="_blank">V <span style="color: orange;">Victoria Terminus</span></a></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Probably Mumbai's most famous building after The Gateway of India is Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) - formerly known as Victoria Terminus (VT). Designed in a Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival style by Frederick William Stevens, VT is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1887. Obviously a colonial building, it commemorates the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Supposedly the busiest railway station in all of India, VT serves as a terminus for long-distance trains as well as commuter trains coming in from the suburbs. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/05/my-first-ipl-cricket-match.html" target="_blank"><b>W <span style="color: orange;">Wankhede Stadium</span></b></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To avoid a red face, please pronounce it correctly....Venkerdy! Built in 1974 and was then redeveloped in time for the ICC World Cup Cricket in 2011. The first Test Match played there was between India and the West Indies in 1975. Architecturally, the thing to note is the suspended cantilever roof covered in lightweight, heat resistant Teflon fabric. The spectators therefore have a better view as there are no beam supports blocking the way. Capacity is 45,000 and the coastal situation of the stadium means that swing bowlers get assistance during the early part of the day. Red soil is used on the pitch - which ensures consistent bounce. I didn't realise cricket was quite so scientific!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://xaviers.edu/main/" target="_blank">X <span style="color: orange;">Xavier's College (St)</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Named after Francis Xavier, the 16th-century Spanish Jesuit saint, this college is one of the most prestigious liberal arts centres in India (A+/5* rating). It was actually founded by German Jesuits in 1869 with just two students. The college is now run by Indian Jesuits with special consideration being given to Roman Catholic students. On offer are undergraduate and post-graduate courses in the arts, sciences and commerce. Built in an Indo-Gothic style, St Xavier's stands on a beautiful three acre campus in Fort (near VT station above). Go </span><a href="http://places.wonobo.com/mumbai/st-xavier-s-college/1240667/interior" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for a 360 degree view of the campus!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/the-fort-finely-chopped-food-walk.html" target="_blank">Y <span style="color: orange;">Yazdani Bakery</span></a></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Closely related to 'Z' below, Yazdani is one of several fading Iranian Parsi Bakeries in Fort. I first came across it when I went on a Finely Chopped Food Walk of the area. The Brun Maska (hard buttery croissant) is a particular highlight, as well as the soft, pillowy bread-buns slathered with butter. If you visit, ask the rather geriatric owner nicely, whether you can take a look at the engine room around the back. I loved to see the bakers in their vests, toiling away at kneading and baking bread.</div>
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</span><span style="background-color: white;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Z <span style="color: orange;">Zoroastrian</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I could have written about the Parsis for P but then what I have written about for Z? The Parsis of Mumbai are one of two Zoroastrian communities to be found in South East Asia (named after the Iranian prophet Zoroaster). The Parsis (literally meaning 'Persians') fled to India to avoid persecution by the Muslims in the 8th century. A well defined community, they live mostly in Bombay (with a few in Karachi and Bangalore), having orginally settled in Gujurat and staying there for over 800 years. My favourite Parsi related hang-out is the <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/09/britannia-best-loved-restaurant-in.html" target="_blank">Britannia Cafe</a> which serves up its famous Chicken Berry Pulav or Yazdani mentioned above.</span></div>
</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFy7hNJ9Sc3TIeYDAkGYN1rPHBqK4YSd2QJQJrPWBjexfPduKbmeNUn3NjMhPjbBgcypYzHm8VIyVCQSO8AknMLUxcGet4j92SfYmMm5hp0unvvobxEi-KYqJUNBWEkiJlWV95OVvKzs/s1600/DSC00450+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicFy7hNJ9Sc3TIeYDAkGYN1rPHBqK4YSd2QJQJrPWBjexfPduKbmeNUn3NjMhPjbBgcypYzHm8VIyVCQSO8AknMLUxcGet4j92SfYmMm5hp0unvvobxEi-KYqJUNBWEkiJlWV95OVvKzs/s1600/DSC00450+2.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A group of Zoroastrian priests at a Navjote I recently attended (Coming of Age ceremony)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Come back another day for my 'Alternative A-Z Guide to Mumbai!'</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-16066303279156045122014-04-25T16:20:00.000+05:302014-04-25T16:20:51.187+05:30You Photographing Me Photographing You<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I always stop off at the <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/06/gateway-of-india.html" target="_blank">Gateway of India</a> if I am down south in Colaba. Because I love to see the tourists - mostly Indian - that flock to the site for a glimpse of history and a view of the sea. I also love the way that they gather in huge groups to have their photographs taken by a member of their family. I usually nip in at the side to steal a picture - which usually distracts them and causes their eyes turn in my direction. Ooops sorry about that!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1EzrThPlABjJiiWHtmdS2OrAfNQ22naL8Eh0mcSLD3p2RWKyfiFRjg-rluyQf3KNqhb8Xad6Y82wOoIoh2YxpZz7gGT9cCD0z2yU50CAeZloKPvd0k9brJ-HfLOLWdbQMoJGQ4iQWKY/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1EzrThPlABjJiiWHtmdS2OrAfNQ22naL8Eh0mcSLD3p2RWKyfiFRjg-rluyQf3KNqhb8Xad6Y82wOoIoh2YxpZz7gGT9cCD0z2yU50CAeZloKPvd0k9brJ-HfLOLWdbQMoJGQ4iQWKY/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+05.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">What happens when I steal the pose - eyes going in two different directions!<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the Gateway of India you will also find the 'professional' photographer who will avail himself of portrait services for those visitors who do not own a camera. In fact you will find many of these photographers. These men carry DSLR cameras (and probably don't have a clue how to use them) and portable printers tucked in a bag so that the snaps can be developed 'instantly' (whatever happened to the Polaroid camera?) Not only does this service give visitors a nice souvenir to take away with them (I do not know at what cost) but it also means that the whole family/couple/group will be complete in the picture.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlu4FohEYtZ8QOyOzy1refm0zR8pWFfXiadu6wN4Z7ThY_khdSb2d_appREcQCwY1aq25s1ssVjWuionWvXZV1L-xcsy9fnuK4kMlIdUAhLQ6tC2qXz58JXbLdRJXyJMO9OqgFVQQ9Ys/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlu4FohEYtZ8QOyOzy1refm0zR8pWFfXiadu6wN4Z7ThY_khdSb2d_appREcQCwY1aq25s1ssVjWuionWvXZV1L-xcsy9fnuK4kMlIdUAhLQ6tC2qXz58JXbLdRJXyJMO9OqgFVQQ9Ys/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+01.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gateway of India - Mumbai's 'most valued structure' (and where the British were seen off!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And the point of this blog? On my last visit, I decided to turn my camera on the camera-men. At first, I tried to be surreptitious but it wasn't long before I was spotted - the reaction to this being lots of waves, V signs and posing for my camera by the guys! I was almost chased! Here are the pics:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPYPpiFHnhrMgHVunfjtou8nL9k0I4K1PZ_WZR1wLJ9eS7UNSM_OYWITwvqMF9gPhJPchtQHPEpDhxkwgD0aIrKVUe9MkKSxRKbTxi1pj7pe7BnEjimaist2kZyE9paeO8t7FMC6SQdw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPYPpiFHnhrMgHVunfjtou8nL9k0I4K1PZ_WZR1wLJ9eS7UNSM_OYWITwvqMF9gPhJPchtQHPEpDhxkwgD0aIrKVUe9MkKSxRKbTxi1pj7pe7BnEjimaist2kZyE9paeO8t7FMC6SQdw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+04.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This couple wait as their picture comes out of the portable printer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_6e4MwLo2wMChtnNjvSp6MHPlXfqH_ob-Xf6alhMQnNwMTVg-LtPAYIkXZC17UVLZLhZncqICfy_gZNRDHY90g4M5PWNfu0A7duN-a_NwMaboOgPfF5oPGaLNys2hgm5svXjCUWlDyo/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_6e4MwLo2wMChtnNjvSp6MHPlXfqH_ob-Xf6alhMQnNwMTVg-LtPAYIkXZC17UVLZLhZncqICfy_gZNRDHY90g4M5PWNfu0A7duN-a_NwMaboOgPfF5oPGaLNys2hgm5svXjCUWlDyo/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+05.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another photographer sets up his equipment to print.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirN-YE3fIalbgkoebWXNAgLqGXDXKcJtFa6lbngeXTsjj3-0t917UIdK1Ao2hzA2J5T_PdfC7ENnk50MMSDMru8Yx-NzX9-0WE-dWuhx2DfsXtIhOm0Vi24eitoT5Zl9hkYqVQzKlsUP8/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirN-YE3fIalbgkoebWXNAgLqGXDXKcJtFa6lbngeXTsjj3-0t917UIdK1Ao2hzA2J5T_PdfC7ENnk50MMSDMru8Yx-NzX9-0WE-dWuhx2DfsXtIhOm0Vi24eitoT5Zl9hkYqVQzKlsUP8/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+06.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiViBNZUvCXlTxUciAcUhzopvr_dZUzK3e8ZXZNe6BE67KovyxT4KWZMsTy2kLMFlKmqD07mHf845Ol8FSN-p0mqzmd85PYXvNCBpDn0CaoBigcvTnTcwIJWzHmmyQ5gstLMW6mN-Cm1bI/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiViBNZUvCXlTxUciAcUhzopvr_dZUzK3e8ZXZNe6BE67KovyxT4KWZMsTy2kLMFlKmqD07mHf845Ol8FSN-p0mqzmd85PYXvNCBpDn0CaoBigcvTnTcwIJWzHmmyQ5gstLMW6mN-Cm1bI/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+07.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I look on as this guy approves his photo (close-up below)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmWUhQP__VY2aC9B0vXJl9t5wjDanqHM5uYgV3qg8eAK9uCwc2zCm9MYvWQK7KcnLWlndMkVqkwhSNPn28u8zorKHoz4cbHlnZprz24AfXFx-c4d2VjJFEQddmpQISgmaCiYEBJ1Ek7Us/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmWUhQP__VY2aC9B0vXJl9t5wjDanqHM5uYgV3qg8eAK9uCwc2zCm9MYvWQK7KcnLWlndMkVqkwhSNPn28u8zorKHoz4cbHlnZprz24AfXFx-c4d2VjJFEQddmpQISgmaCiYEBJ1Ek7Us/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+08.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOc_B5-B8AulqSIro2gmR1ICpqeHR8BEFbt8Tbtpxj0EWMxNs70E2vM2sVRIzESpK6HI2dIiFC3hn6IkPzvTZn_JzclQcmBSXsB4ZfOOiNcy6gL68O_jeEWGCH5giHppzNN6q6zBGX6aQ/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOc_B5-B8AulqSIro2gmR1ICpqeHR8BEFbt8Tbtpxj0EWMxNs70E2vM2sVRIzESpK6HI2dIiFC3hn6IkPzvTZn_JzclQcmBSXsB4ZfOOiNcy6gL68O_jeEWGCH5giHppzNN6q6zBGX6aQ/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+09.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I almost distract these children as they line up for a group shot.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcTtyhme10VRFZJdK_5hjURxyxXTfSqD0NgfM6LUWYgrIniAmoTtMSZW0wolI2UUzU94cKOsPYygp3CbAAIbLzfJMVpQGhBjuc4x8nv800WBnK-Rj0bnlyUjT2Gmc7YukE86-5pf6XXE/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcTtyhme10VRFZJdK_5hjURxyxXTfSqD0NgfM6LUWYgrIniAmoTtMSZW0wolI2UUzU94cKOsPYygp3CbAAIbLzfJMVpQGhBjuc4x8nv800WBnK-Rj0bnlyUjT2Gmc7YukE86-5pf6XXE/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+10.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Effectively hawkers, these photographers harass every tourist that passes by.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilu-QD2Y-IrWyYTdjzyS9WpFN7kTztTt6gw8BjUMegVgp8OIWMIUzbSltCfPkOJMJ45wmJZ-Hc8ZyVr-56skbgwC7j-ESMYj5eO-vszX2TFKh-J91ILgtei6AMG0bhgV7glYYIThzfhKw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilu-QD2Y-IrWyYTdjzyS9WpFN7kTztTt6gw8BjUMegVgp8OIWMIUzbSltCfPkOJMJ45wmJZ-Hc8ZyVr-56skbgwC7j-ESMYj5eO-vszX2TFKh-J91ILgtei6AMG0bhgV7glYYIThzfhKw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+11.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of them hang around shyly waiting to be asked....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1XXPHTFRBFZgrZA_6NkzJ1yW0RJhvUEwO6H3XAZsr_bn8K6ievd5-lE0fSSF5-4hG5725wckk9QqpupxBy2-4MQb8za9I-txkCv2updcNDrDBnBc0d3NO1MFsopz74U9JSOC65xf0bw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1XXPHTFRBFZgrZA_6NkzJ1yW0RJhvUEwO6H3XAZsr_bn8K6ievd5-lE0fSSF5-4hG5725wckk9QqpupxBy2-4MQb8za9I-txkCv2updcNDrDBnBc0d3NO1MFsopz74U9JSOC65xf0bw/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+12.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And....I'm spotted!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2FSrVe5rtSThZG60K6FrrHgTeocjFzbd5KLfMFO3WHVaRzn79jtiOvDyvMVdBAKm-XP69qA80byLZZBUUNoFeW33ExH7BkZueBsgHBGwVKoeihN4x1DZ9ovJ4H3xU8wz13QOnJ83jgk/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2FSrVe5rtSThZG60K6FrrHgTeocjFzbd5KLfMFO3WHVaRzn79jtiOvDyvMVdBAKm-XP69qA80byLZZBUUNoFeW33ExH7BkZueBsgHBGwVKoeihN4x1DZ9ovJ4H3xU8wz13QOnJ83jgk/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+13.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">....and again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQS8EA7fvB7Uv37XjrEFo-zJJ6VBFvo3n-4fI_KIhO3gErqggQjwZGhndi7iog37r5QQClu7w9zaH8Wwyit7oIf5ujPnDPL55th4_1si3zXRP-NNbDrXIpMVt1dIQYeMZPC-Lto_0vuY/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQS8EA7fvB7Uv37XjrEFo-zJJ6VBFvo3n-4fI_KIhO3gErqggQjwZGhndi7iog37r5QQClu7w9zaH8Wwyit7oIf5ujPnDPL55th4_1si3zXRP-NNbDrXIpMVt1dIQYeMZPC-Lto_0vuY/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+14.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This fella looks at me in a bemused way...perhaps he thinks I'm competition?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhZfM4DgKdFVdEXBLbMdmLMKzJ-q_-X65gRFr76vydYQlhoesgyn8iKL3DTO678FFzMTUUuHI1CvUvblfpA3DJYOVLNOttGOpw2tV21IY2gDBrab6OEoJI_j6qxs1YNPyAc7nMfF37F4/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqhZfM4DgKdFVdEXBLbMdmLMKzJ-q_-X65gRFr76vydYQlhoesgyn8iKL3DTO678FFzMTUUuHI1CvUvblfpA3DJYOVLNOttGOpw2tV21IY2gDBrab6OEoJI_j6qxs1YNPyAc7nMfF37F4/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+15.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More photographers join the group and stare at me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3ipp3o635SVrRayuiSovuZmG7zXMZYEm80XErNcnFS6VMzp9i_yalkjZgOhsHZ7NMFJkgdSLeNCCRdWjqBf6Mq5xB8YtfjkraAJX0d3pcYHO6uPdfAn8HqrLskjAqXvVanpBHgoHKTY/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3ipp3o635SVrRayuiSovuZmG7zXMZYEm80XErNcnFS6VMzp9i_yalkjZgOhsHZ7NMFJkgdSLeNCCRdWjqBf6Mq5xB8YtfjkraAJX0d3pcYHO6uPdfAn8HqrLskjAqXvVanpBHgoHKTY/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+16.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...but it doesn't take long before they're laughing, posing and being silly. Funny!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiaeH11WGl3JBn55dXxEpMWddzIqkS6vtiuVW9qpHj8Zx1OpgbuHo5Jq567KqhpiqEil1Nm6p0EtHMW7QnlV8noaS2rrGxWbOxk-_bpJZu9kNiulaRdsVdUYZRLv2hHexKfEvM5mhqSE/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiaeH11WGl3JBn55dXxEpMWddzIqkS6vtiuVW9qpHj8Zx1OpgbuHo5Jq567KqhpiqEil1Nm6p0EtHMW7QnlV8noaS2rrGxWbOxk-_bpJZu9kNiulaRdsVdUYZRLv2hHexKfEvM5mhqSE/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+17.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This guy was so happy because he had the same camera as me - Nikon D7000</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIl-X7xK47sk9A5Xfe7D_32bfXaUsEW1_ULcZgElekL6fKUVWWRDLkEZvQOMkohrtNzXY1HNHi0g9UoBFaEumB1Vv23RUgsJCjxtX_vHzc53riwX_PYF3zc4oFXwsnwlL9oE28snhAMLs/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIl-X7xK47sk9A5Xfe7D_32bfXaUsEW1_ULcZgElekL6fKUVWWRDLkEZvQOMkohrtNzXY1HNHi0g9UoBFaEumB1Vv23RUgsJCjxtX_vHzc53riwX_PYF3zc4oFXwsnwlL9oE28snhAMLs/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+18.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As more of the photographers come towards me, I start to run in the other direction. BYE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBl6TijzfkpsX0PV8I0-x6Y1DYAFTiCb7tCoNvQnSiShekZSjJWN4M3QgI8zBSg9QFFba_uTHtM0qLkjojfMojKJagrHSrlmGU4aWmf51hSe-ERDz97pa3F6QfDvNpFncYy4UdYDDX4M/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBl6TijzfkpsX0PV8I0-x6Y1DYAFTiCb7tCoNvQnSiShekZSjJWN4M3QgI8zBSg9QFFba_uTHtM0qLkjojfMojKJagrHSrlmGU4aWmf51hSe-ERDz97pa3F6QfDvNpFncYy4UdYDDX4M/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+02.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just love the colour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5o5yEx0UK9CW5v2nY4yoZ1U2LNDknxTbN_7QzWyFW0xunUXiUl0sWMH4oqUJny9SuK0Wyz8rE-DJdjb0rxZw8P8Aj42Le9cqYsCMyke6ViPWsmCjdXXOa64w4fbgijcQjJqao9phXJn4/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5o5yEx0UK9CW5v2nY4yoZ1U2LNDknxTbN_7QzWyFW0xunUXiUl0sWMH4oqUJny9SuK0Wyz8rE-DJdjb0rxZw8P8Aj42Le9cqYsCMyke6ViPWsmCjdXXOa64w4fbgijcQjJqao9phXJn4/s1600/Gateway-India-Photographer+-+03.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inscription at the top of the Gateway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-25058447491791072222014-04-24T16:42:00.001+05:302014-04-24T22:22:43.904+05:30Ayesha Kumar - Bespoke Clothes Designer & Dressmaker <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the two years that I have lived in Bombay, I have not had the opportunity to have clothes made to my own design and fit. This is kind of crazy as tailors and dressmakers line every avenue of the city - and it is pretty much the norm for upper and middle-class Indian women to have their clothes stitched. But it is perhaps for this reason - because there are so many to choose from, and probably all of differing standards - that I never got on with it. It was too daunting. What I really needed was a recommendation. Which is finally what I have! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4o-OPI2lIrtepk0FFS4Zuk6lc3T5ONFOZ7o0caB9zObbdiSoXs7gxh_IJZdpXNTuAtxwOUYL5s-qt3ZxL6pDa34otDUUQvxscG190CcCp7j4xXFD_l4VLRBU-tCpB15BsC_k_wxAI9U/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4o-OPI2lIrtepk0FFS4Zuk6lc3T5ONFOZ7o0caB9zObbdiSoXs7gxh_IJZdpXNTuAtxwOUYL5s-qt3ZxL6pDa34otDUUQvxscG190CcCp7j4xXFD_l4VLRBU-tCpB15BsC_k_wxAI9U/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+18.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I heard about Ayesha Kumar a while ago through a friend of a friend. I had been meaning to visit her shop in Colaba for several months but never seemed to get around to it. But last week - and requiring a dress to be made for a charity event, I finally got to meet the lovely Ayesha Kumar.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZjLUTX3lIG9pbgP6El1QOTxiTnEwjHsyZez8GbUgGIB-XPNLLp1GtLG66rBSpoVBArwO4b8b5Bx9TGEo5ivUYGuZjASe8d5JT-Grikyhyphenhyphenk8ECWqhiFS1a1iI_z-kKck3idpn8pyIrKaA/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZjLUTX3lIG9pbgP6El1QOTxiTnEwjHsyZez8GbUgGIB-XPNLLp1GtLG66rBSpoVBArwO4b8b5Bx9TGEo5ivUYGuZjASe8d5JT-Grikyhyphenhyphenk8ECWqhiFS1a1iI_z-kKck3idpn8pyIrKaA/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+17.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ayesha Kumar - will help you with all your clothing requirements</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tucked away in a quiet enclave off busy Colaba Causeway, is the AY Store - a place where Ayesha showcases her designs and consults with clients. The racks are full of beautifully embroidered tunics, shirts and dresses as well as plainer, more casual items. And although she makes traditional Indian clothing (including wedding gowns) - a lot of the designs are Western with an Indian influence. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mumbai born and bred, Ayesha tells me that years ago, she started making her own clothes at home after never being able to find what she wanted. Everything seemed so mundane to her and she wanted to be sure that when she went out - that she was not wearing the same thing as anyone else. In 2009, Ayesha translated her talent into a formal business, by creating a shopfront in Colaba. Designing everything herself and shopping for fabrics personally, she utilises three skilled tailors to produce her work. Of course, she collaborates with clients to produce exactly what they want and very usefully (and perhaps unusually) - she specialises in designs for the fuller figure. (Phew for me!). I have found that being a larger size myself, (or merely being of a Western stature that tends to be larger than the average Indian size), it can be difficult to find decent clothing in this city. So far, I have been reliant on Anita Dongre and Global Desi. It would have been much better for me if I had discovered Ayesha earlier on!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ayesha also explains to me that she works well with clients who have little time to take care of their wardrobes, or those who need help with styling. She basically acts as a confidence booster to such women by helping them to look good in the right fabrics and the right colours. Yay for Ayesha!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As I glance at the rows of samples on the racks, I come to realise that the prices are very reasonable for such bespoke work. A floaty top starts at 2,500 Rs and more detailed, embroidered pieces start at 4,500 Rs. (£25/£45 or $35/$55 respectively). I take a close look at some of the embroidery work and I am impressed. Even for a westerner who prefers their clothes to be unembellished, I am being attracted to the gold and silver threads and beads like a magpie. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBC27GSfxvO5CzFq0DQoatbDZ-mVMemO0yVqiQ4WmHbwvf1Va5P8uUbAy1nbpHGMdi7vGCxu4IrAqjqHLG69tDHVjk2dDV3UpY24YUDKC6ZclC8s5rPX_vXlUQWKRNFe2RuKuNcsebeUw/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBC27GSfxvO5CzFq0DQoatbDZ-mVMemO0yVqiQ4WmHbwvf1Va5P8uUbAy1nbpHGMdi7vGCxu4IrAqjqHLG69tDHVjk2dDV3UpY24YUDKC6ZclC8s5rPX_vXlUQWKRNFe2RuKuNcsebeUw/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+15.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Timing is not a problem - it generally takes 15 days to get a plain dress made but if you have an urgent situation, Ayesha can probably help you out in seven days. Even if the item requires embroidery. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although Ayesha specialises in larger sizes, I can see that she must have quite an eclectic clientele. On the racks are gorgeous prom-style floaty evening dresses; brightly coloured, shorter tunics to be worn over churidar for the younger set; elegant linen dresses for the stylish larger women; kurtas with fine detailing around the pockets and necklines; and beach cover-ups in gossamer fabrics to slip on over swimsuits. Really, there is something for everyone, and if there isn't - Ayesha can design and make it for you! (By the way, an evening gown will cost 12,000-16,000 Rs depending on the level of detail and embroidery, and Ayesha can also quote for Indian wedding attire). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The store is well worth a visit for a private consultation, but you can also work over the email with Ayesha. I am currently working with her to design an embroidered evening dress in black georgette and lace....watch this space!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some pictures of AY Store, Ayesha's showcase:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfJOWVdtkL-pnVbtmGgS4dHIGIvcAZIEpjtR50f50SOTWib58t2Qb_mk1YGKP4obYRhHYWMNZNI89aoYvPJ0y8QDr-tWyqQYdgpCMOPP_5RklgAJHwkxB0Cp09WAIgt8at_fPWaL-MM4/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfJOWVdtkL-pnVbtmGgS4dHIGIvcAZIEpjtR50f50SOTWib58t2Qb_mk1YGKP4obYRhHYWMNZNI89aoYvPJ0y8QDr-tWyqQYdgpCMOPP_5RklgAJHwkxB0Cp09WAIgt8at_fPWaL-MM4/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the showroom you will find some examples of Ayesha's designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t505azdRmySSt_Osg7lJjXoXrvGlkt0BiqpqZ4dtpJc55_U8cMAcIE_Z1L3kMZU9aSQCEw5PlvE7KGC3xMqOdjqOH1d7nf1rhUZdDLVmjglDD82g3mNoO4DWYuhQ9dqce-HFZ8EGYgc/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7t505azdRmySSt_Osg7lJjXoXrvGlkt0BiqpqZ4dtpJc55_U8cMAcIE_Z1L3kMZU9aSQCEw5PlvE7KGC3xMqOdjqOH1d7nf1rhUZdDLVmjglDD82g3mNoO4DWYuhQ9dqce-HFZ8EGYgc/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+02.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clothes in many different fabrics, colours and designs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVYL78jS1p2S1ghCj472IrhlmWcqgOs2mra0xSIpCbwME9weKvM2P2tDQdEstm3JTVnOm_QXBgRsi5ETlheuzxbrpd08i6LtZERnqAU0NRvYjsX7QcpaSY-dJq0R_QRS3XA-E1hwgLCk/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVYL78jS1p2S1ghCj472IrhlmWcqgOs2mra0xSIpCbwME9weKvM2P2tDQdEstm3JTVnOm_QXBgRsi5ETlheuzxbrpd08i6LtZERnqAU0NRvYjsX7QcpaSY-dJq0R_QRS3XA-E1hwgLCk/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+03.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really like this loose linen top with embroidered flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWXbAIfiCgq_FCjghD5RRlZCWzJ_3bc0MLIMW1CuFdwKWcA5xEd7U7kkAsuisTTlw3PYEuFf92DdiWE2HUGbo_qq9UOBzIoSXPRA2go1voEiRvy5M9NXj065KBtqZg8ZlPGSbH48QIzM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWXbAIfiCgq_FCjghD5RRlZCWzJ_3bc0MLIMW1CuFdwKWcA5xEd7U7kkAsuisTTlw3PYEuFf92DdiWE2HUGbo_qq9UOBzIoSXPRA2go1voEiRvy5M9NXj065KBtqZg8ZlPGSbH48QIzM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+04.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This gown is to do die for - - detail of the pleating below.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp5oTuTdT_aFMYOvtv-AcX807M7Q4GX0eTqfJfPSP4uWgSZWm59C_YaHs66X4r_dXZlOMgln7E4abOtH5JtBRChQDn1_h7Yaoi3W3wMybHg5iJFA7Xq-VaHELk9zSAkyOVTwjY4kG7ds/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMp5oTuTdT_aFMYOvtv-AcX807M7Q4GX0eTqfJfPSP4uWgSZWm59C_YaHs66X4r_dXZlOMgln7E4abOtH5JtBRChQDn1_h7Yaoi3W3wMybHg5iJFA7Xq-VaHELk9zSAkyOVTwjY4kG7ds/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+05.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlBZN1lOGMs1phwE0HIaL1V9gSHkfPg2OCzZjFJMc_cxNa3jsBLiISLSRXyuwDnj3wO0GqnfGYXQsOS6KAredaxoaXwgom2wSq_lnXyUxFeTBdRLzYH2xtyI1dUJUUhsyZ-vyUnkl54s/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlBZN1lOGMs1phwE0HIaL1V9gSHkfPg2OCzZjFJMc_cxNa3jsBLiISLSRXyuwDnj3wO0GqnfGYXQsOS6KAredaxoaXwgom2wSq_lnXyUxFeTBdRLzYH2xtyI1dUJUUhsyZ-vyUnkl54s/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+07.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I also adore this dress - the gold brocaded fabric is detailed below. A good design for covering tummies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqS4gcjDOv-Kc1cWyrOquR57ww9FZllY3-AjpxaIQGn6p8GJu1tpdD6toM3SLNoru7hK27M0qgT-FW9P1iNkhvuJGKSesl7ogtmTnY4fP4BniD8XmU4t_U3raKruxGnI6vfNvP1EHz5I/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqS4gcjDOv-Kc1cWyrOquR57ww9FZllY3-AjpxaIQGn6p8GJu1tpdD6toM3SLNoru7hK27M0qgT-FW9P1iNkhvuJGKSesl7ogtmTnY4fP4BniD8XmU4t_U3raKruxGnI6vfNvP1EHz5I/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+06.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32Pk6KDlRePGNHCIkTBjhtKk_1VHhv9INc7bruLoPzmia4om_ox3JmISiG_-Fr8R5YySXVgHlPrsPbPUcULXyCViAZIIjBStmb0cbacIO9PHpcZHhrIz4nxkZW-4LUkxuDz8givQZbCc/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32Pk6KDlRePGNHCIkTBjhtKk_1VHhv9INc7bruLoPzmia4om_ox3JmISiG_-Fr8R5YySXVgHlPrsPbPUcULXyCViAZIIjBStmb0cbacIO9PHpcZHhrIz4nxkZW-4LUkxuDz8givQZbCc/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+12.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This linen shirt is a personal favourite of mine - I love the embroidery around<br />
the collar and cuffs and the unusual pockets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTcwfdTtQBS3NEI3dT2DEj7NDpeW_ldfdA7NyXOf_vT0zyIvxJKt1QVBwL4c1AK8-wRrLwtzsxEik_BhqQ3TvhM_H4wjom9R_mqVS_hd45uVNZZiMrSHtNGfCF7vJwq5J_MqyqzZfF3k/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBTcwfdTtQBS3NEI3dT2DEj7NDpeW_ldfdA7NyXOf_vT0zyIvxJKt1QVBwL4c1AK8-wRrLwtzsxEik_BhqQ3TvhM_H4wjom9R_mqVS_hd45uVNZZiMrSHtNGfCF7vJwq5J_MqyqzZfF3k/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+13.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xozRTazWXHR7sldvMxQ2cde-kffeFqksrcslwz-e7xB5YAiYBrhzpnfIiOPLwb5l7mTNhX9G2O8gInpzU-gMfCES-p8EmY4XrA_1t4UYukkrMnKJtK996nZKVFEDn1gqS68abOXrU38/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xozRTazWXHR7sldvMxQ2cde-kffeFqksrcslwz-e7xB5YAiYBrhzpnfIiOPLwb5l7mTNhX9G2O8gInpzU-gMfCES-p8EmY4XrA_1t4UYukkrMnKJtK996nZKVFEDn1gqS68abOXrU38/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+11.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This embroidery/braiding is beautiful. The top (below) would be perfect as a beach cover up or even with jeans or white pants.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIIwMP0GgHYqEPfzJXf1l8rJ0aCnBOVlFKbZnWQZszoHMBlnIrMlP2zfyM5u27Oba4eR1mZSMhTuJaYj-S1rLZOX8aWaB0s47ZdPZzu1Gygyx19ORqjAWTsDpUK2jXgK6CQGarR9MnzF0/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIIwMP0GgHYqEPfzJXf1l8rJ0aCnBOVlFKbZnWQZszoHMBlnIrMlP2zfyM5u27Oba4eR1mZSMhTuJaYj-S1rLZOX8aWaB0s47ZdPZzu1Gygyx19ORqjAWTsDpUK2jXgK6CQGarR9MnzF0/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+10.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5QuTzMiD-TrymWpGu4KDn4O6jv7VBRCxEOVjV4mxH4ycrHTZUa_8_MUTED9UNXUKBPIm6OX_q7UH_iM6kOPSMWxCO56_tnBsE7G9osf3LoSBScbwBFG8XhKCQJWqltNIpbs0jfkdzZg/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu5QuTzMiD-TrymWpGu4KDn4O6jv7VBRCxEOVjV4mxH4ycrHTZUa_8_MUTED9UNXUKBPIm6OX_q7UH_iM6kOPSMWxCO56_tnBsE7G9osf3LoSBScbwBFG8XhKCQJWqltNIpbs0jfkdzZg/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+09.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appealing to a younger audience is this brocaded pink kurta - lovely pin-tuck detail below.<br />
This top would be perfect with pink churidar leggings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALe7UJ2qvpcvdJfY90S1zX8itZ4ZmTsnSXYCJ_s-zZgBm0noOrKfS4z2QUPQbV6ZJY1W-Hgo0iZA0veYXmWZrnf-79v6v4-MQEUP-WzleqYu8sMTpZsRwrnckV1Si2eNhnLM8kWh54gM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALe7UJ2qvpcvdJfY90S1zX8itZ4ZmTsnSXYCJ_s-zZgBm0noOrKfS4z2QUPQbV6ZJY1W-Hgo0iZA0veYXmWZrnf-79v6v4-MQEUP-WzleqYu8sMTpZsRwrnckV1Si2eNhnLM8kWh54gM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+08.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK8md97tGV7RxyrshyphenhyphenNTbSgmcv-TmdqiBQN4ACud8qVpmNQiwcezm6k9BeESOsVv6iYhOvOycbRxnb-SIyKwboWPSpC9o4mdTFyXZQUuy73NUcSrXZFyGvtVB5-lOZkd_WWn9tr9GkmM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK8md97tGV7RxyrshyphenhyphenNTbSgmcv-TmdqiBQN4ACud8qVpmNQiwcezm6k9BeESOsVv6iYhOvOycbRxnb-SIyKwboWPSpC9o4mdTFyXZQUuy73NUcSrXZFyGvtVB5-lOZkd_WWn9tr9GkmM/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+14.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-mFcNvyKXSPNJiz6wRHK8uQUq1JwyidwO0WEZzgzsXEl2_KhWPdzezMCeyijl9M9d8e-p2M8rmEkC5-iwfIpJoeRExkvOBAUE1s23oF6-pX5MhnwlFs9BHnLJl1JuyCKo0J7vMtgvqU/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-mFcNvyKXSPNJiz6wRHK8uQUq1JwyidwO0WEZzgzsXEl2_KhWPdzezMCeyijl9M9d8e-p2M8rmEkC5-iwfIpJoeRExkvOBAUE1s23oF6-pX5MhnwlFs9BHnLJl1JuyCKo0J7vMtgvqU/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+16.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYrnOh2w-W9BjVGA7UxTZjpMwPx00EGUggExmOXJv0dxREdUqVVKea9UX7u8k-vbapIhV7AnmJkKZFChgx-3nU1kvZXLhGwNdXRv9l4aOwai7e_SvRPU1NwrKIG3xHCmtAXK_4T2U7XKU/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYrnOh2w-W9BjVGA7UxTZjpMwPx00EGUggExmOXJv0dxREdUqVVKea9UX7u8k-vbapIhV7AnmJkKZFChgx-3nU1kvZXLhGwNdXRv9l4aOwai7e_SvRPU1NwrKIG3xHCmtAXK_4T2U7XKU/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+19.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prices are reasonable - the linen top above with the black embroidery and unusual pockets is priced at 4,500 Rs (£45/$60)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHECewKBXaoGyMjUvc4Di4Y0zP9zQT1kRy_KlnnrnIxIKWLoNVyd2CGdqfgJibT2JyiTgQ5jXjbzxtZ6dUTnQV-XhP3z5KU0VirnzkvoDNY_CNtfXlyGKl0D-s4iOSWjzwqHvxte3jIMo/s1600/IMG_9045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHECewKBXaoGyMjUvc4Di4Y0zP9zQT1kRy_KlnnrnIxIKWLoNVyd2CGdqfgJibT2JyiTgQ5jXjbzxtZ6dUTnQV-XhP3z5KU0VirnzkvoDNY_CNtfXlyGKl0D-s4iOSWjzwqHvxte3jIMo/s1600/IMG_9045.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ayesha sent me a picture of this stunning dress she made for an expat client - the embroidery<br />
on the bodice is stunning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00L3cWQLuI93PbVzAIrNBrOdcizqGSDXkaxvssPCBlPLQi3eO2CjXmqrXkHumIduTknXilxBUptiL_3GLVkAtZ96nlARHSWu_e7D7GlEVwpbJypSKOOFuPPK1Jm1JT0OhG44x4VIcfT0/s1600/IMG_7702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00L3cWQLuI93PbVzAIrNBrOdcizqGSDXkaxvssPCBlPLQi3eO2CjXmqrXkHumIduTknXilxBUptiL_3GLVkAtZ96nlARHSWu_e7D7GlEVwpbJypSKOOFuPPK1Jm1JT0OhG44x4VIcfT0/s1600/IMG_7702.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am working with Ayesha on a black version of this dress - perhaps with some embroidery.<br />
So excited!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjB22uHilrTpDTnV30n_w_K9_u_FQOoJ8WtgLsLprYhQ47kWMSG8OrOrIqtiO6k7u-N3j8V207EI-vN-KQV2eeYwHSX02fkRzrJ2aLd7AlquhiMEEOF3dj_n8eGTPHO9-LGPvNcapaxo/s1600/image+(1).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjB22uHilrTpDTnV30n_w_K9_u_FQOoJ8WtgLsLprYhQ47kWMSG8OrOrIqtiO6k7u-N3j8V207EI-vN-KQV2eeYwHSX02fkRzrJ2aLd7AlquhiMEEOF3dj_n8eGTPHO9-LGPvNcapaxo/s1600/image+(1).jpeg" height="640" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Have this elegant gown made in any colour with your choice of detailing around the neckline.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UTDR2gVMYmcLGkwQuWy5xpptSK1R430QAthf4GYpBlWacG0roslk4ZTo6GeN_Kkb3Dl-ecoJHyynEcyKwbp1Z1sItW0BpVeoYbqFUxxFm90TDufHJJ3V-UdSRQl98ZQrrQPe4lgZlBo/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UTDR2gVMYmcLGkwQuWy5xpptSK1R430QAthf4GYpBlWacG0roslk4ZTo6GeN_Kkb3Dl-ecoJHyynEcyKwbp1Z1sItW0BpVeoYbqFUxxFm90TDufHJJ3V-UdSRQl98ZQrrQPe4lgZlBo/s1600/AY+Store+Mumbai+-+20.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>
<span style="font-style: italic;">Ayesha is happy to come to your home for an initial consultation and measurement taking!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Ayesha Kumar</i></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
@ AY Store </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Apna Ghar Building</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ground Floor</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shop No 1.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Colaba</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tel: 9819739308</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Email: <a href="mailto:aythisandthat@gmail.com">aythisandthat@gmail.com</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8zcv9nldCTFDxOWxE4Q9xzMhQawE_bxTbtL0MsqKCnnXcqbvuWkfYkPhRoAQDZdJ_VVag8SpUMHnvvbanKNHRBlyGpeg95Dpztc075j1zhnF3zZCwVjn2RXzJ5sFN-uP4EeYc_yXI2I/s1600/Map.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8zcv9nldCTFDxOWxE4Q9xzMhQawE_bxTbtL0MsqKCnnXcqbvuWkfYkPhRoAQDZdJ_VVag8SpUMHnvvbanKNHRBlyGpeg95Dpztc075j1zhnF3zZCwVjn2RXzJ5sFN-uP4EeYc_yXI2I/s1600/Map.png" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-70081582369744427162014-04-07T17:01:00.003+05:302014-05-12T11:51:43.159+05:30The Sea Link - Mumbai's greatest ever feat of engineering?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There are so many civil engineering projects going on in Mumbai right now - the Monorail, the Metro, the airport's new terminal T2, road widening, road extensions and Expressways being built. None of them are finished or appear destined to ever be finished. I don't think the city's authorities can keep up with the pace of burgeoning Mumbai.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My favourite feat of engineering in the city (to look at anyway) is definitely the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (or Rajiv Gandhi Seal Link to give it its proper name). This is perhaps because I travel across it on most days - the bridge connects the place where I live with South Bombay. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObw4zVLPE-oDqKKiU54ne_3QpvFB29ik7Y6AwC7sV_VEoYQe6k6ZHTPd3xG-Yps2TFJc7wI4wMT5w5uLubWkWOh-4jrN-EPj7uMJESKfqasD3MifxUCN3yQqbwtk5BHx83fyrH6r_we8/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObw4zVLPE-oDqKKiU54ne_3QpvFB29ik7Y6AwC7sV_VEoYQe6k6ZHTPd3xG-Yps2TFJc7wI4wMT5w5uLubWkWOh-4jrN-EPj7uMJESKfqasD3MifxUCN3yQqbwtk5BHx83fyrH6r_we8/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+9.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impressive view of the bridge from Worli Fishing Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, despite being officially completed in 2009, even the Sea Link remains incomplete. You will notice that when you get about three quarters of the way along - near the Worli end, the road forks off to the right and then ends abruptly. If you were walking along and did not look where you were going, you'd fall into the sea. Caput. This was the part of the bridge that was supposed to make a second connection to Haji Ali, further down in South Bombay. A contract was even signed between the authorities and the construction company (Reliance Infrastructure) to produce this part of the Sea Link way back in 2010 - but due to arguments with political parties, over the cost as well as the logistics of the project, the contract was eventually cancelled. I am really not surprised by this.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkZcmlsne2Uu7tKNu5j1S4BlrGu9IZWaz0uP72shybjXLlBQ3hC5ghsnf7_njnIGCid-Xm-wtQqnnfH1IEEowbAKVWHWwqsP34nEMP-GU8LYZ3qg5BhXWUQJJlkf69IsUytlETfvns8A/s1600/wha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBkZcmlsne2Uu7tKNu5j1S4BlrGu9IZWaz0uP72shybjXLlBQ3hC5ghsnf7_njnIGCid-Xm-wtQqnnfH1IEEowbAKVWHWwqsP34nEMP-GU8LYZ3qg5BhXWUQJJlkf69IsUytlETfvns8A/s1600/wha.jpg" height="320" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plan of the originally proposed second 3.3 km Sea Link from Worli to Haji Ali <br />
- 'put on hold' after financial, logistical and political issues.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Sea Link was built with the intention of reducing the commuter time between Bandra and Worli from up to 90 minutes down to 30 minutes or less. The only other way to reach south Mumbai before that, was to drive through Mahim - with its congested, narrow streets. The administration of traffic across the bridge is further supposed to be the epitome of efficiency - but I am afraid it is not. You will often reach the toll plaza - say at 9.30am, which is peak time - only to find queues going back some distance behind each barrier. This is due to several reasons - all of which annoy the hell out of me. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The toll booths for each barrier were built so high up that they need an intermediary bloke to grab the money from the driver, pass it up to the guy in the toll booth and then pass back down the ticket to the driver. At most European booths (and I imagine ones in the USA) - you fling your money into a bucket and the barrier opens automatically, giving you the correct change in the process. If there is a human manning the toll booth, you would generally be within reach of him! </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Hardly anyone owns a weekly, monthly or annual pass. This is because only a monthly pass actually exists and if you want it you can only buy it on the first day of the month. You can't buy it over the internet and you can't buy it from one of the toll booths - you have to stop your car on the Bandra side just past the toll booths and buy it in the building to the left. Don't try to buy it on the 2nd or 3rd or any other day of the month because you won't be entertained. Oh, and don't think that your own efficiency means that your monthly pass will be any cheaper than 30 separate day passes - it won't be. Also, if you have a monthly pass, there is only one lane which which responds to the electronic tag. This lane normally has a road cone in the way which has to be removed by a human before passing through. Therefore totally defeating the object of the exercise!</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">At the other end - nearest Worli, the engineers did not design a proper exit from the bridge - one that should sweep down and filter into the road along Worli Seaface. Instead, the bridge slants down towards the sea face and then comes to an abrupt end - you have to slow down, halt and then wait to turn left. This causes the traffic to back up for up to 10 minutes at busy times. At the Bandra end, they did not build a proper turn off at all. There is a very sharp turn left (almost a dirt track) as soon as you come off the Sea Link, which takes you under the flyover and into Bandra Reclamation. It was obviously built as an afterthought. </li>
</ol>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTDNcLzNPeywsMRNFh_DaF0QqLGg1p-Azd-EmbnJbq3aypVc2iz6Puw1uDI3Dc87s01o1Ea58u1xvPYkq2nrNGTlALoHDGhQwieaW2NN3YNZgN59GhUieouf3wa-xBnH-Co5v7q3boXA/s1600/DSC00322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTDNcLzNPeywsMRNFh_DaF0QqLGg1p-Azd-EmbnJbq3aypVc2iz6Puw1uDI3Dc87s01o1Ea58u1xvPYkq2nrNGTlALoHDGhQwieaW2NN3YNZgN59GhUieouf3wa-xBnH-Co5v7q3boXA/s1600/DSC00322.jpg" height="640" width="427" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Bartlet loves nothing better than a breezy trip over the Sea Linl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Apart from the inefficiencies of the toll booths, the pot-holeless road itself is lovely to drive on. It's such a nice feeling to wind down the window and feel the sea-breeze in your hair . My dog Bartlet loves it! It's such a shame that the ride is so short and that the speed limit is only 50 km per hour. The eight lane Sea Link is really the only road in Mumbai where it would be possible to pick up some speed without the risk of being killed. Having said that - the quality of driving is so poor in Mumbai, that the death toll probably would be enormous if a high speed limit was allowed!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you are visiting the city as a tourist, a ride across the bridge from South Mumbai is a must-do must-see. It is one of the few very impressive modern structures in the city.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some more pics, which I have taken over the last year - each with a different perspective: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHAc18ZvYx60DqZwNVHH3qx-CcUkbDIzCkzZk-jrdTz0pHBpGvEsuMObpYCQ11BcByz4Tksw95UKA7xHtXs8AMgT_TpJ-sQAseI-SJnnKvapvamfYUt82DA1PUaLcqPwuYpk2khTcCfA/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHAc18ZvYx60DqZwNVHH3qx-CcUkbDIzCkzZk-jrdTz0pHBpGvEsuMObpYCQ11BcByz4Tksw95UKA7xHtXs8AMgT_TpJ-sQAseI-SJnnKvapvamfYUt82DA1PUaLcqPwuYpk2khTcCfA/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is designed using cable-stayed spans - the tallest of which is 128m. There are pre-stressed concrete-steel viaducts at each end. See <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandra%E2%80%93Worli_Sea_Link" target="_blank">here</a> for further technical information. The Foundation Stone was laid in 1999 by controversial public figure Bal Thackeray. The project, which was supposed to cost around Rs 6.6 billion ($110m) ended up costing Rs 16 billion ($270m) with the estimated build time of 5 years eventually extending to 10 years. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3d_Z5dtLCUZZ2-LIuYQEgNg4mp2CS-pyUYrxr24f5HPyFA2aafdSaxDXypryS4AIGKXxVfBWYu7yy5FML7RjAFASjKTdjTIUKdIdMtqp57zPovJw1RIS0i2CHbMISuQy8DN1ONfkgQc/s1600/DSC_0692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3d_Z5dtLCUZZ2-LIuYQEgNg4mp2CS-pyUYrxr24f5HPyFA2aafdSaxDXypryS4AIGKXxVfBWYu7yy5FML7RjAFASjKTdjTIUKdIdMtqp57zPovJw1RIS0i2CHbMISuQy8DN1ONfkgQc/s1600/DSC_0692.jpg" height="340" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The tallest span of the bridge at 128m (taken at Mahim)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHt9QWR66Ry2vRZLfLvVtHrpiq5Yvazn8GMzVx9Wku8cCno2UtXlepWdZ4CrjFE4Ts1NgIz0GXRWX9ppSrnHJihAuBH0mJO6YYBcf-N3Zv0HmWg-xGoQs-08wF4rHscbudGeHY2T59cI/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHt9QWR66Ry2vRZLfLvVtHrpiq5Yvazn8GMzVx9Wku8cCno2UtXlepWdZ4CrjFE4Ts1NgIz0GXRWX9ppSrnHJihAuBH0mJO6YYBcf-N3Zv0HmWg-xGoQs-08wF4rHscbudGeHY2T59cI/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
Despite an attempt to reduce commuter times, the cost is still prohibitive to most drivers. Hence why the road itself is usually almost empty. One way is Rs 55 (£0.55/$0.80), a return is Rs 82.50 - making it affordable only to car-owning upper middle classes, expats and the rich. City taxis still use the Mahim route to reach Bandra from South Bombay unless the passenger is willing to pay the toll. </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIMZIhotq9MIToeKJOwBbcWqd_xEGBAusnvTs3F82qR5HaeYAQfi68Tl3AJe68a9KMBrjmjNzXRcGRjT-w6B3kcrsdoyTcJb-i0s4LfE7saDYJ3131WTxoTZmQG2W-ub5QIJ44uJQ4hw/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIMZIhotq9MIToeKJOwBbcWqd_xEGBAusnvTs3F82qR5HaeYAQfi68Tl3AJe68a9KMBrjmjNzXRcGRjT-w6B3kcrsdoyTcJb-i0s4LfE7saDYJ3131WTxoTZmQG2W-ub5QIJ44uJQ4hw/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+4.jpg" height="280" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moody at monsoon time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_tHcHNDoSf_cV5_gi66FSrPrj41_YVKppYrJFehmNxqJvuXQ1OpwbZsVsQcLMy2GWUdToN4WRUXfQLFqAUa4Cu5ll3I_LCRjcPRXujcTxs1rjSql-L55PzdgKxYjOi7z_UMRdPsuoKY/s1600/DSC_0716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_tHcHNDoSf_cV5_gi66FSrPrj41_YVKppYrJFehmNxqJvuXQ1OpwbZsVsQcLMy2GWUdToN4WRUXfQLFqAUa4Cu5ll3I_LCRjcPRXujcTxs1rjSql-L55PzdgKxYjOi7z_UMRdPsuoKY/s1600/DSC_0716.jpg" height="326" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The average Mumbaikar will never get to go across the Sea Link - all they can do is admire it from afar.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgbDcZWjU9ptmy3PMJYjtZDAF2Y6dqeNFju8xAicfW1b4j_EHVZ0GHVI4hkQQ0-en6UoIXjVjyuecxuERDicRfFo4c1gofDO2UGydxLoXRbHAyyb-JgjlaW2yfEvhrygs0IyDMjZWe2Q/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgbDcZWjU9ptmy3PMJYjtZDAF2Y6dqeNFju8xAicfW1b4j_EHVZ0GHVI4hkQQ0-en6UoIXjVjyuecxuERDicRfFo4c1gofDO2UGydxLoXRbHAyyb-JgjlaW2yfEvhrygs0IyDMjZWe2Q/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+5.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above & Below: Two of several photos I have taken to exemplify the long and needless queues at the toll booth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEmC7wXgNhu68dR-rDc3wK7j8ja_PaJBBJBbg_OGNJCD6XFw6k4HKHBbPhEzjwsrdghnJdn_hSQf10e0a-x0dXO6eFXqcghAIasUUbPZcYp-Q3W4wMKHKrrTZ3wiqGTaMCaYZRJgnMMMU/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEmC7wXgNhu68dR-rDc3wK7j8ja_PaJBBJBbg_OGNJCD6XFw6k4HKHBbPhEzjwsrdghnJdn_hSQf10e0a-x0dXO6eFXqcghAIasUUbPZcYp-Q3W4wMKHKrrTZ3wiqGTaMCaYZRJgnMMMU/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+7.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The queues are even worse during the monsoon - and some of the lanes turn into rivers due to there being inadequate run-off.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXR9CaEuU-EzUvWlI4Rfi7r0323niVcQxnU4Q95XIBIYMNDipYBGojxscRUrpRLHN-88Fy0RfN8KQhyKVDQek99tkmIRPpLkmCe2X8Agglc2NFXOQXPtVCZqdC8WwwraKxQeAXKbmUtc/s1600/DSC_0690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKXR9CaEuU-EzUvWlI4Rfi7r0323niVcQxnU4Q95XIBIYMNDipYBGojxscRUrpRLHN-88Fy0RfN8KQhyKVDQek99tkmIRPpLkmCe2X8Agglc2NFXOQXPtVCZqdC8WwwraKxQeAXKbmUtc/s1600/DSC_0690.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contemplation. View from Mahim.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LHLvINlrnwJThwycAESlAS6qZLkMngAenQmubwAzRf5RVfccWKQBXXHeOQdOoe-lvD_6prPfqvrrwBU9XWa4d0kNB8Wosmx_va1O9ZEXMabufbTNMfxFt4VSmmI1VvcxmnZ6DrbFPdk/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LHLvINlrnwJThwycAESlAS6qZLkMngAenQmubwAzRf5RVfccWKQBXXHeOQdOoe-lvD_6prPfqvrrwBU9XWa4d0kNB8Wosmx_va1O9ZEXMabufbTNMfxFt4VSmmI1VvcxmnZ6DrbFPdk/s1600/Bandra-Worli-Sea-Link+-+8.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the southern viaduct from Worli Fishing Village.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGUuinQ4zywZhHw-oBPs-i3iKrKXYERRRhtwtPKb95FcnRcXTthHwao9B2TAM1a-L_JlpIsn4rWTzgvXfzihFCZkkqrN7_djLqJM3TygoI6eh8YHfqGAMfrCv87Av7gjf3-3v1vjVx78/s1600/DSC00682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGUuinQ4zywZhHw-oBPs-i3iKrKXYERRRhtwtPKb95FcnRcXTthHwao9B2TAM1a-L_JlpIsn4rWTzgvXfzihFCZkkqrN7_djLqJM3TygoI6eh8YHfqGAMfrCv87Av7gjf3-3v1vjVx78/s1600/DSC00682.JPG" height="454" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bartie loves the feel of the wind through his ears as we cross the Sea Link</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEH0AyNn21e8scWjooye2SzPrSyWm_OQzKQPWumVdodZXnw1GwtUTC2kdNiDXSIcdopUOBiigO9tf0cGEmeVIltIKrQdxKVDAnj8lXW8sE27SkyNUKQMFcMw7v3CMPzEyxMlMCSVBbqc/s1600/DSC09189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEH0AyNn21e8scWjooye2SzPrSyWm_OQzKQPWumVdodZXnw1GwtUTC2kdNiDXSIcdopUOBiigO9tf0cGEmeVIltIKrQdxKVDAnj8lXW8sE27SkyNUKQMFcMw7v3CMPzEyxMlMCSVBbqc/s1600/DSC09189.JPG" height="310" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Actual, unadulterated view of the polluted Mumbai Skyline from the Sea Link (taken in January 2014)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZ9cmayK2DDVYpLpG4hxltrJ4OyBsjtt3cfVSlBZQUq12z2ARO5gl7Gu8PqKaBPV-vgLVWKr5hld6fNbBdnwIrXyGHTQ01GtCXUGxN7JVeA6ZIQkQvA8condZO35prnGOKPgz8YVdtXU/s1600/DSC_5772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZ9cmayK2DDVYpLpG4hxltrJ4OyBsjtt3cfVSlBZQUq12z2ARO5gl7Gu8PqKaBPV-vgLVWKr5hld6fNbBdnwIrXyGHTQ01GtCXUGxN7JVeA6ZIQkQvA8condZO35prnGOKPgz8YVdtXU/s1600/DSC_5772.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: justify;">Just for fun - one of the policemen that guard the exit to the Sea Link having a nap. Not so fun is the fact that explosives detectors still have not been installed at either end of the bridge despite the fact they were ordered in December 2012 and should have been delivered by June 2013. Hence why you will see plenty of security on the Sea Link. There is still a fear that terrorists could attempt to blow up the bridge by sending explosive-laden vehicles across it. That's a pleasant thought. Read more <a href="http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/bandra-worli-sea-link-under-threat-from-explosives-503854" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPRF1AYeX2esME-s3CavCIx0XeQuFsKKKwbxhG-6SrMwB4SmgEAdQjTjru_9zCrURRNnCop_Nstoy1wVhhno1_xp4mtmQD5BnWrGduJ3TRBm7s6JCdia3fZ2iyEnp1ChRR3kM2sb8C2g/s1600/DSC01606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEPRF1AYeX2esME-s3CavCIx0XeQuFsKKKwbxhG-6SrMwB4SmgEAdQjTjru_9zCrURRNnCop_Nstoy1wVhhno1_xp4mtmQD5BnWrGduJ3TRBm7s6JCdia3fZ2iyEnp1ChRR3kM2sb8C2g/s1600/DSC01606.JPG" height="362" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favourite picture which I took from an apartment block near Taj Land's End. Almost a bird's eye view!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-57353117423436854552014-04-05T17:29:00.000+05:302014-04-29T14:04:26.095+05:30Return to Camelot (and a new Del Trotter Bar!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the one you've been waiting for folks! For me to finally go antiques shopping again. Well it's the Camelot sale from today until 8th April and there was no way I was going to miss it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hadn't been to <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/shop-camelot-colonial-antique-furniture.html" target="_blank">Camelot</a> for ages - partly to do with having a dog which stops me going shopping - (much to the joy of Mr Jules), and partly because I've actually already stocked up quite nicely at home. Soon there will be room for nothing else in our apartment. Including us.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8OoF62dGzxZo7SQzy2JwVzIPIoqFcgz3fK5xqAZXrIhpt7F5PqD8ZqtADPqcyYbv_5f3qmMDb5UkPTxN4V2CerUVM3JGWjalL3328Lfkrpv-rA3QxdhodqSEDWPb_D6D9bDdvM41Ook/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8OoF62dGzxZo7SQzy2JwVzIPIoqFcgz3fK5xqAZXrIhpt7F5PqD8ZqtADPqcyYbv_5f3qmMDb5UkPTxN4V2CerUVM3JGWjalL3328Lfkrpv-rA3QxdhodqSEDWPb_D6D9bDdvM41Ook/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But <i>(and apologies to my father-in-law who hates me starting sentences with buts and ands!)</i> today's trip was very fruitful. The store (which is set in a beautiful colonial villa at Kemps Corner) was full to the brim with gorgeous colonial and Art Deco antiques - all the stuff I just love! I was actually just looking for a desk chair - to go with the <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/desk-hunting-at-oshiwara-antiques-market.html" target="_blank">desk I bought from Jogeshwari</a> - but alas I got there too late. The one I liked had already been sold. I remember the last time there was a sale on at Camelot and someone got there before me and stuck their names on everything I liked...give me a chance next time huh?!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Having said that, I did find a teak Art Deco bookcase with glass doors and...wait for it...a cocktail cabinet that turns into a bar! Ever since I started watching Only Fools & Horses on UK TV back in the 70s, I have hankered after a bar for my own sitting room. I think that no home should be without one. The version I purchased is slightly more elegant than Del Trotter's though. It is original Art Deco with stainless steel detailing, mirrored glass doors at the back - and has plenty of slots for bottles and glasses inside. Where it is actually going to go in our apartment I have no idea - but surely there will be a drinks party at Chez Jules very soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0vvZLcITgs8MQEIRHEkzdJPFFJL0hEDQdHo_LPYQumjcRCNl2_yM2n6TI1k_KYIz-_EqIteq84aIZ9PozuQv6rNFxuq58VMjTKgcoEbyoEnbf-t5-ZPU691CPrHh8hda1eEWdIL5DdkI/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0vvZLcITgs8MQEIRHEkzdJPFFJL0hEDQdHo_LPYQumjcRCNl2_yM2n6TI1k_KYIz-_EqIteq84aIZ9PozuQv6rNFxuq58VMjTKgcoEbyoEnbf-t5-ZPU691CPrHh8hda1eEWdIL5DdkI/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our new cocktail cabinet with the side leaves pulled out to make a bar. I just love the metal detailing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJ_d3IkmI_K7rC5xi3B43WaqA5YajmNFD0I9HLcRwNjuK_9hs3ParB002plGSPINJr3IX_42NrNqNt2zQ8ZHkQAtFn8DAN-5chu7QmNMJYHfn1iHZM0-6LAFDiYb0zRHuVhGEVXOal8s/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJ_d3IkmI_K7rC5xi3B43WaqA5YajmNFD0I9HLcRwNjuK_9hs3ParB002plGSPINJr3IX_42NrNqNt2zQ8ZHkQAtFn8DAN-5chu7QmNMJYHfn1iHZM0-6LAFDiYb0zRHuVhGEVXOal8s/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Internally - glass and bottle slots and mirrored doors on the back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidd2PuRFnJyCfJrYeGdLM_6w3eYJ8iupFcgtYB10i9atSSP0olTcAF4W1nHiJCBq29O4FNqb4iRonwAClMshkQj-_Klf87ENieYWdCCcDC9CdgXN1T8k9-e0-SqvacOf1ceQ6ZPbPk4Zc/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidd2PuRFnJyCfJrYeGdLM_6w3eYJ8iupFcgtYB10i9atSSP0olTcAF4W1nHiJCBq29O4FNqb4iRonwAClMshkQj-_Klf87ENieYWdCCcDC9CdgXN1T8k9-e0-SqvacOf1ceQ6ZPbPk4Zc/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+17.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the side leaves folded in - it makes for a more subtle drinks cabinet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6MFkIDHccM8uaC-yzVUDQHm6em-Od_NRSuQs_f6GbvQ6lt4A_TINaXVIfZoEJBo57lyRwBseo87yA8xRQDOhyphenhyphenhRGFr7N8JCgKqM5mpJCCa8sTadNZKWFRKEuXkG4JjGg5V3amNSVTMM/s1600/trottersflat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-6MFkIDHccM8uaC-yzVUDQHm6em-Od_NRSuQs_f6GbvQ6lt4A_TINaXVIfZoEJBo57lyRwBseo87yA8xRQDOhyphenhyphenhRGFr7N8JCgKqM5mpJCCa8sTadNZKWFRKEuXkG4JjGg5V3amNSVTMM/s1600/trottersflat.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The <i>Only Fools & Horses</i> roomset with bar to the rear. Tacky or what!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Even if you don't make the Camelot sale - do pop along when you can because the prices continue to be extremely reasonable when compared to Moorthy's and even Chor Bazaar (and you can be assured of good quality and personal service at Camelot).</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are the pics...thanks for joining me on my latest shopping trip.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pLhfzODQq0kPhVq45S7teJMvrXP8jCzvmK9NGhTxdcfjjrhxIjFLLKUMPK8xcJMyIbpxUrYRMZx7zuqXHRNAItTVos4_2DGST_IkXvucRaG3743W301_X4fUxkC8K04MNKDUo9pz910/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_pLhfzODQq0kPhVq45S7teJMvrXP8jCzvmK9NGhTxdcfjjrhxIjFLLKUMPK8xcJMyIbpxUrYRMZx7zuqXHRNAItTVos4_2DGST_IkXvucRaG3743W301_X4fUxkC8K04MNKDUo9pz910/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautifully restored and upholstered piece and plenty of side-tables.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILsGexYPRB3KHrFn5dG0x0FTgnDwfyb5T9FU4kYjP7Fg3rKQXO937Q_bSTOkoVJSgPoZU1flWP23SQp77Hejg3QB8AZFl0ilc2R2waX2tGf8RDxaG1loHvb24GsrgC012hzQNnjHT404/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILsGexYPRB3KHrFn5dG0x0FTgnDwfyb5T9FU4kYjP7Fg3rKQXO937Q_bSTOkoVJSgPoZU1flWP23SQp77Hejg3QB8AZFl0ilc2R2waX2tGf8RDxaG1loHvb24GsrgC012hzQNnjHT404/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting print used on the sofas in the foreground</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBTNxE95Dfscxwn3YnNeq6Hu0ly6JmOXURozhdIbhoYGV3yqq_vwm745tn2WnmilLZ29_K7uSRMfv8qQp3hE_S28v9TuwqwD6Yh-TBZFBygJxnKshtVbuXe6tmXsseMk_uq_fVSPu5Uk/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBTNxE95Dfscxwn3YnNeq6Hu0ly6JmOXURozhdIbhoYGV3yqq_vwm745tn2WnmilLZ29_K7uSRMfv8qQp3hE_S28v9TuwqwD6Yh-TBZFBygJxnKshtVbuXe6tmXsseMk_uq_fVSPu5Uk/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRoDZ_vt5UE38HI8YbJikTQdRPd5TTfuOLJpnmPvdwwRA6AWE_dzYw7-UQAnVKQSPiL8vM21wpUpFGNSv2CnkYGqV6510Q2OwLtCLEljrqnbCDLwpy5zGPnu_IsMhq0h0UNe_AXBdbgw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRoDZ_vt5UE38HI8YbJikTQdRPd5TTfuOLJpnmPvdwwRA6AWE_dzYw7-UQAnVKQSPiL8vM21wpUpFGNSv2CnkYGqV6510Q2OwLtCLEljrqnbCDLwpy5zGPnu_IsMhq0h0UNe_AXBdbgw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous antique dining table that can seat a very large family. 1.25 Lakh Rs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkwgXBa5Uyc6Na_byBiQITtigK-_2OfwYY6WZ4e76nhXXQ8tv8WyXHHhIbikKPcfUfrdoFtKUFYqUjvERK43BGAo8nipEOL3NtYp892JMHDviM6t2VXGH7sLosJpv50NBbUMo5yyci4rE/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkwgXBa5Uyc6Na_byBiQITtigK-_2OfwYY6WZ4e76nhXXQ8tv8WyXHHhIbikKPcfUfrdoFtKUFYqUjvERK43BGAo8nipEOL3NtYp892JMHDviM6t2VXGH7sLosJpv50NBbUMo5yyci4rE/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Deco mirror with coathooks for your hallway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8nF-wJbblagfx945pW5pgUtaYL7R-oR1XVhRddrEZ2M0JnQvo-DHgtp78FdOF8ACwW1mAIXNAdw74hsn8WZyqJVbFofu4v1PXU33vAFcX9UQJgj0LcrOpYtph1LnnUN5sQe5BhOPq_c/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8nF-wJbblagfx945pW5pgUtaYL7R-oR1XVhRddrEZ2M0JnQvo-DHgtp78FdOF8ACwW1mAIXNAdw74hsn8WZyqJVbFofu4v1PXU33vAFcX9UQJgj0LcrOpYtph1LnnUN5sQe5BhOPq_c/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+18.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camelot is currently stocking some very cool, repro lighting. This sidelamp is 6,000 Rs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW67BcAbHc-0McqzoBzrT3REBpXYYICcS7e8T8GWDFQjrmkZ_lERuyPePZfJ6FViQPzK8dwfDqWfwPevrfOjSASX4D68CYnaqGZyT0HZBduKaetd17q0edkfNTDh947JrIEjtyjqC-CUw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW67BcAbHc-0McqzoBzrT3REBpXYYICcS7e8T8GWDFQjrmkZ_lERuyPePZfJ6FViQPzK8dwfDqWfwPevrfOjSASX4D68CYnaqGZyT0HZBduKaetd17q0edkfNTDh947JrIEjtyjqC-CUw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+19.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJIHMsDUCHM7v2c0rrBg5UDWA_NFQPcq_6ia6ux4hcd-HZpz2EQ4VZnHC-0jre_Q-cIYY_CQWX5VrGl9dyeT5xZ-w7tIzME4XuMtIYIIRB6QPhJnsH9UfWB-MPOj4EWliseMoxGUbpUM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJIHMsDUCHM7v2c0rrBg5UDWA_NFQPcq_6ia6ux4hcd-HZpz2EQ4VZnHC-0jre_Q-cIYY_CQWX5VrGl9dyeT5xZ-w7tIzME4XuMtIYIIRB6QPhJnsH9UfWB-MPOj4EWliseMoxGUbpUM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+20.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was tempted by this highly polished dining table - quite small and would seat 4 comfortably. 39,000 Rs in the sale. £390/$500</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi420vB0MZlaexfIhApz7T5upAQUZhK7Y4Jlq4uhzdteb8T1W2rfLnEU82R912-htC-QqKKHACn2qfBu9K_pNU4FQSAZYQwrE_JpzNQcRq8bIOoTK7cLrtglhNTIEOB4VpgQD-wSUBNbkY/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi420vB0MZlaexfIhApz7T5upAQUZhK7Y4Jlq4uhzdteb8T1W2rfLnEU82R912-htC-QqKKHACn2qfBu9K_pNU4FQSAZYQwrE_JpzNQcRq8bIOoTK7cLrtglhNTIEOB4VpgQD-wSUBNbkY/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+22.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSehgDUNuMNyedssUJoBryR4L8uBIF9QTRouEZbZlAnAmG8K1NWNvW443OyE9ovTv7Pp29eqP2l5Bcfv63iFqxwxi7VWFn1VdnL6kFNqoCWVA0QyV3VVc6FYx_HVAGGUsl-LoNPjRaxc/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMSehgDUNuMNyedssUJoBryR4L8uBIF9QTRouEZbZlAnAmG8K1NWNvW443OyE9ovTv7Pp29eqP2l5Bcfv63iFqxwxi7VWFn1VdnL6kFNqoCWVA0QyV3VVc6FYx_HVAGGUsl-LoNPjRaxc/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+24.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxU_vtWr3TP-8uFvCSV5eVNes7gg1MDwKTKW986eFrNwMslMEam8pR5o6Vpx8Q-USrb4SRiDR2D40lqpgJ8pzYpcs4UeooLou-L74oxde29L6druwktW66bsK7B_v69rwx8pszh1VCVnw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxU_vtWr3TP-8uFvCSV5eVNes7gg1MDwKTKW986eFrNwMslMEam8pR5o6Vpx8Q-USrb4SRiDR2D40lqpgJ8pzYpcs4UeooLou-L74oxde29L6druwktW66bsK7B_v69rwx8pszh1VCVnw/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+26.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very cool industrial style art deco light - 15,000 Rs from memory (enquire).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvYy_yje3N0kj4t2T-UkPBKY1FL0q9WSuhiDW5_WsT4YLVqosrMp1CH0hQzG5UXhiiWYTHLiJuCIB_BtBh3uiLZGFhY9YEJXKT_nP0jjlDBYn4MeweA7EfD77jPG73rBuo9_J-i6nRMk/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLvYy_yje3N0kj4t2T-UkPBKY1FL0q9WSuhiDW5_WsT4YLVqosrMp1CH0hQzG5UXhiiWYTHLiJuCIB_BtBh3uiLZGFhY9YEJXKT_nP0jjlDBYn4MeweA7EfD77jPG73rBuo9_J-i6nRMk/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+29.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHYeg5BW7WXckBengWTtuF4rJumJdO17nKhcNtOj6wqWAM_N91zbAXGSj_zCBIUjPN65QAD0pyuVF3A6F7_GWaUpGEcJfjrDd5LUsN9OCX6h2dCqJ-OPhSErDaiY11Tx2jJ8d6rJGzlY/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHYeg5BW7WXckBengWTtuF4rJumJdO17nKhcNtOj6wqWAM_N91zbAXGSj_zCBIUjPN65QAD0pyuVF3A6F7_GWaUpGEcJfjrDd5LUsN9OCX6h2dCqJ-OPhSErDaiY11Tx2jJ8d6rJGzlY/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+31.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_IMeqVGKI2UK2eu2uKOq-yxlo34PThAgjgntoknmYyD_NiTj2g_jFGoyjHgyti2reIwhi9lVjvDI9BjCzuYhRqcnXIvscNQ0VBZxH08sxWn6Nq1Byq0Cll9CrrLKI9C0n5qPxAzywa4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_IMeqVGKI2UK2eu2uKOq-yxlo34PThAgjgntoknmYyD_NiTj2g_jFGoyjHgyti2reIwhi9lVjvDI9BjCzuYhRqcnXIvscNQ0VBZxH08sxWn6Nq1Byq0Cll9CrrLKI9C0n5qPxAzywa4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+32.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6,000 Rs (£60/$90)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPHD4Wfh5ZuhplTeH9OQ2-GG2jGhK33AF8owt-P47EpUYjGQib8ap_7Oo2e1G4ji1X3zi_G77S4WnWXZOzcZjZHctIKaGFUddVLtQJZo6WfKnLr8peVFBT0UiXa-FP55SRAjYPL1jnc4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPHD4Wfh5ZuhplTeH9OQ2-GG2jGhK33AF8owt-P47EpUYjGQib8ap_7Oo2e1G4ji1X3zi_G77S4WnWXZOzcZjZHctIKaGFUddVLtQJZo6WfKnLr8peVFBT0UiXa-FP55SRAjYPL1jnc4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+36.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0GCDCEEFDvN25gApsAhw689-hOIO5EUKCz_dkPMakWtVUvG6mJWr8pRFVFTWcn_wZ4t6v3isBrcOk4FVhm8hKnXA52hxEPOvy7QI43PqbLsBPFulOFJwHzQQkhEDo9du8tuJSkMrv54/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0GCDCEEFDvN25gApsAhw689-hOIO5EUKCz_dkPMakWtVUvG6mJWr8pRFVFTWcn_wZ4t6v3isBrcOk4FVhm8hKnXA52hxEPOvy7QI43PqbLsBPFulOFJwHzQQkhEDo9du8tuJSkMrv54/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+33.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ169_XbkwtMyZ7KzzEvpFqciEg7k-Gv7oAwW3_E5Ipxx6QAYcswnF6FiObqBuCjAD5wMhihw1fVAY9tf2oCALn95TzdUkWeGNxeTVSZZ1B79fHNWvXUZDpbxG5Lkx7MEIjVSaFuAnnD0/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ169_XbkwtMyZ7KzzEvpFqciEg7k-Gv7oAwW3_E5Ipxx6QAYcswnF6FiObqBuCjAD5wMhihw1fVAY9tf2oCALn95TzdUkWeGNxeTVSZZ1B79fHNWvXUZDpbxG5Lkx7MEIjVSaFuAnnD0/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+39.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Also very tempted by this film-style light. 24,000 Rs (£240/$350)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMIJIZ051VEV6N_6Q5CXNeDlXiIFku0vXg7OIH5BlZmNPlXe4hxa9I4CmXEF30v24C2Qn0u01WLe3rZQ4IA4ml4iggPUKBV7C-n-mJbMi90078GhAzisFyfwbMNdnq4bV-mDVxvVW-GM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtMIJIZ051VEV6N_6Q5CXNeDlXiIFku0vXg7OIH5BlZmNPlXe4hxa9I4CmXEF30v24C2Qn0u01WLe3rZQ4IA4ml4iggPUKBV7C-n-mJbMi90078GhAzisFyfwbMNdnq4bV-mDVxvVW-GM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+42.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colonial style furniture which would look great in a conservatory</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_7VPlgqOhXTpUq3QWHcGj8nYl44Q6Hpy9RS-dxAH9zcaPUV7ST5sfIZ9pmIOI3k6W9kKb4CehazjAAggWFjLdNCiD6VGlR6F3bd38YPsPEctnCF_HIApJx88rxF0jPRvEghUvtA2sNM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_7VPlgqOhXTpUq3QWHcGj8nYl44Q6Hpy9RS-dxAH9zcaPUV7ST5sfIZ9pmIOI3k6W9kKb4CehazjAAggWFjLdNCiD6VGlR6F3bd38YPsPEctnCF_HIApJx88rxF0jPRvEghUvtA2sNM/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+43.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghm6rxCrWMgeF549iiqn1Zkp_o4yhY9_BcHWCZv5JRodpV47RTIQ9heIWdWUEBwgi5NsBBpMq7vA0f89m2jrXcwJNnkaMDKt8MUyBLVELf735nzsx_3C9gxqyVtWoqF4c1nVdtj1305d4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghm6rxCrWMgeF549iiqn1Zkp_o4yhY9_BcHWCZv5JRodpV47RTIQ9heIWdWUEBwgi5NsBBpMq7vA0f89m2jrXcwJNnkaMDKt8MUyBLVELf735nzsx_3C9gxqyVtWoqF4c1nVdtj1305d4/s1600/Camelot-Antiques-Mumbai+-+44.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We also purchased this Art Deco bookcase. I had been looking for one I like for two years!<br />
Will my match my desk from <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/08/desk-hunting-at-oshiwara-antiques-market.html" target="_blank">Oshiwara antiques market</a> perfectly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4jQIO1i2Xe61eXFrZYlO5hgBMMQ8JLbz9h221EI46FqOcKZxJM6Y-tOKbtZtt-chbPu-xEvUyyEgZhRaxF66AA1MXL6FLduwGlLWbVX7H3QOmrZzRFWgx11KyfVnC1JL072YPW24HFk/s1600/article-2030215-0D64BEF000000578-257_468x286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4jQIO1i2Xe61eXFrZYlO5hgBMMQ8JLbz9h221EI46FqOcKZxJM6Y-tOKbtZtt-chbPu-xEvUyyEgZhRaxF66AA1MXL6FLduwGlLWbVX7H3QOmrZzRFWgx11KyfVnC1JL072YPW24HFk/s1600/article-2030215-0D64BEF000000578-257_468x286.jpg" height="388" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Mr Jules?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Camelot</span></strong><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">Colonial & Antique Furniture</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">127 Kemps Corner</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">Next to Om Chambers</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">Mumbai</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">Tel: 91 (22) 2364 4594</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px;">Email </span><a href="mailto:Camelot127@gmail.com" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23.100000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">Camelot127@gmail.com</a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Sale on until 8th April. You snooze, you lose.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Read my original post about Camelot <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2012/08/shop-camelot-colonial-antique-furniture.html" target="_blank">here</a></i></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-76196392255863968002014-04-02T15:45:00.000+05:302014-04-02T15:45:01.729+05:30Photoessay : Groups No. 7<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Sorry you haven't been hearing much from me lately. I've just come back from a trip to the UK to see friends and family (see my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.445384768898490.1073741837.298861543550814&type=1" target="_blank">Facebook posting</a> for lots of pictures). <br />
<br />
I will get my act together soon - in the meantime, here is my latest collection of group poses. It's all about the women!<br />
<br />
Bye for now<br />
<br />
BombayJules<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2AVAE7gBRlsJWIw2UiaRq9xBTVIJR06tPJ9swBNGjRDoyxoZud2tYbzqZaYqlobfyUTV4SVxIkgPHmW6n9KKXoRw_ZWSezVZYHUybLhyrnVLXTaDgLIheejfI7YRgZMYZL7NpgIhRpk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2AVAE7gBRlsJWIw2UiaRq9xBTVIJR06tPJ9swBNGjRDoyxoZud2tYbzqZaYqlobfyUTV4SVxIkgPHmW6n9KKXoRw_ZWSezVZYHUybLhyrnVLXTaDgLIheejfI7YRgZMYZL7NpgIhRpk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+06.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Can you believe these policemen agreed to be snapped??! (Colaba)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2lgcK7mVI0K9edG_fd3Ag_2TBE8HZdM6G90FEiSN43OopAa6OUoCW31LUdurDtuhk1Mw65oOGN-dVj4JTLJzcgM9yiTAGzaJgbb7bZuzGbrEswdT_AnLY9XE_hFoOG0sR3K7eStAZlM/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil2lgcK7mVI0K9edG_fd3Ag_2TBE8HZdM6G90FEiSN43OopAa6OUoCW31LUdurDtuhk1Mw65oOGN-dVj4JTLJzcgM9yiTAGzaJgbb7bZuzGbrEswdT_AnLY9XE_hFoOG0sR3K7eStAZlM/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+01.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group of old men in their Gandhi caps and a horizontal chap. (Worli)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUtIpv7D7OxLARaWTK5oBAhwqHeJN-RZ_7C_Xt7YjntJ4x_IN4bQt0pRVmdY2R1Sg1JWsNqB9B8s9h9Aq9EMMmE7sNZ879AMnmpqKXh4oU0dFKeXvbnfnzyoW8VTSh-H8XC2_KaceKqw/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUtIpv7D7OxLARaWTK5oBAhwqHeJN-RZ_7C_Xt7YjntJ4x_IN4bQt0pRVmdY2R1Sg1JWsNqB9B8s9h9Aq9EMMmE7sNZ879AMnmpqKXh4oU0dFKeXvbnfnzyoW8VTSh-H8XC2_KaceKqw/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+02.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three off duty fishermen (Worli)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7t2nGGvmiV0V9Ip88TenRMcN2J_AT-jQ1HGk4ELqh2sKsUs3bs4hheQMrLowsRZDF6kWPmNrQtggcehY1qPPIghJ5iaI6n1nzFyqkofAtRYwkWkqZcBP4NSj32_vWG5ytKEbP7p9gVY/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7t2nGGvmiV0V9Ip88TenRMcN2J_AT-jQ1HGk4ELqh2sKsUs3bs4hheQMrLowsRZDF6kWPmNrQtggcehY1qPPIghJ5iaI6n1nzFyqkofAtRYwkWkqZcBP4NSj32_vWG5ytKEbP7p9gVY/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+03.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleaners having a break (Phoenix Mall, Lower Parel)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFWGXp8OtiuLBYosUuJXvg_kMpBwnhunM8zI4RhvGJ0VkQgxFPPdBlbJdXbCQ1_hjzuZK9kvKHTx7rGOUgEIVyhKfD_YqTOBdZYb_mn4sZM1jtJd-oKmpt8sdallWpIcBqFWCJC6hXqk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQFWGXp8OtiuLBYosUuJXvg_kMpBwnhunM8zI4RhvGJ0VkQgxFPPdBlbJdXbCQ1_hjzuZK9kvKHTx7rGOUgEIVyhKfD_YqTOBdZYb_mn4sZM1jtJd-oKmpt8sdallWpIcBqFWCJC6hXqk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+04.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature lovers at Ranganthittu bird sanctuary near Mysore</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsHyK9wJGYOvY6oiGI6vGWA2yNBtolZ0TO71N2PoHKBbwx4AhsFDuiW05mEFoG7cdhCrXVAhuR7HL7On2jYl99Yj4a5j7x_C3dd2BmNOcBfv-ED3703qAgAuVzQ1RS8YCyoqnU_sq5PQ/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsHyK9wJGYOvY6oiGI6vGWA2yNBtolZ0TO71N2PoHKBbwx4AhsFDuiW05mEFoG7cdhCrXVAhuR7HL7On2jYl99Yj4a5j7x_C3dd2BmNOcBfv-ED3703qAgAuVzQ1RS8YCyoqnU_sq5PQ/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+05.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stealing a pic of these lovely ladies at the Gateway of India</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRjZJMa9bsEyyv_zADTMe0JlSCTHNzuxyantado2mcEuj56otsiTyctRs29MMhN5I1yBRQfaUOnNXB_gp8h6NQWpjrbiolMKGXvO891LAouYfQ1fBcOp_OWPyyvO-KbES5RR3qMXJ-w8/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRjZJMa9bsEyyv_zADTMe0JlSCTHNzuxyantado2mcEuj56otsiTyctRs29MMhN5I1yBRQfaUOnNXB_gp8h6NQWpjrbiolMKGXvO891LAouYfQ1fBcOp_OWPyyvO-KbES5RR3qMXJ-w8/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+07.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Group of lads on a day out to Kanheri Caves, Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvBWRCj3SUA6WfbIKDOVK6P70udXtm1LKHeqlQV9jIOhWlzWCuxOdJKMDXt8nW0DRP7zg2QDlJB2_vi-kjeE5Eym0USxfzBCnKKqrNVyjX7dPKd6pWXF-iOYH3y7NkS1JgB6lGgD4-Yw/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvBWRCj3SUA6WfbIKDOVK6P70udXtm1LKHeqlQV9jIOhWlzWCuxOdJKMDXt8nW0DRP7zg2QDlJB2_vi-kjeE5Eym0USxfzBCnKKqrNVyjX7dPKd6pWXF-iOYH3y7NkS1JgB6lGgD4-Yw/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+08.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful girl and her chaperones - one very grumpy! Banganga</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNAUxKgZ7exYBzA8KuthT34NU5cqofzKHCw7XmicDi-nIPkGO2ufggaZMt0s3UiTrgeVd7qLj9xGIl3kYxqwZU0mAC1lQny8-nfXxjZ0252nkViET3W2eQnEn7I_fFhFA0sR_LbWiSPk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNAUxKgZ7exYBzA8KuthT34NU5cqofzKHCw7XmicDi-nIPkGO2ufggaZMt0s3UiTrgeVd7qLj9xGIl3kYxqwZU0mAC1lQny8-nfXxjZ0252nkViET3W2eQnEn7I_fFhFA0sR_LbWiSPk/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+09.jpg" height="432" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three more lovely ladies (Banganga)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJsCXBaFiYl1NAb4h3rkjb9nz6EOWmIrG66xFIaJpBFuzZfWrfXLuE6_jFz3nmh-OfPycriEI8UM4IzCiNr1lm8zFSbb21tBqrNTImWy6aVAlTYiooit8iPx7_XWStKeTasD2ysPoP1I/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJsCXBaFiYl1NAb4h3rkjb9nz6EOWmIrG66xFIaJpBFuzZfWrfXLuE6_jFz3nmh-OfPycriEI8UM4IzCiNr1lm8zFSbb21tBqrNTImWy6aVAlTYiooit8iPx7_XWStKeTasD2ysPoP1I/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+10.jpg" height="542" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning colours on this fabulous group of women at Banganga Tank</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqx0SamV0jgIDYDrVz3d4ZPjiJE60fRd8x71twwzEleyMLK_zyjO5fYsPGD1XN8Y0eETc6UsRz9GmnUocq8QcFFLP4s5wQIaXkXN6p6NolyN2WjWwvyv_3_p2DymHFFx3ySr4sC8qCBU/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeqx0SamV0jgIDYDrVz3d4ZPjiJE60fRd8x71twwzEleyMLK_zyjO5fYsPGD1XN8Y0eETc6UsRz9GmnUocq8QcFFLP4s5wQIaXkXN6p6NolyN2WjWwvyv_3_p2DymHFFx3ySr4sC8qCBU/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+11.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truckers on a chai break - Sewri</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvENrcBrRvbQ2RVrbn9NJ3HDayA91osldAnTLo98_l_uYEi05xWsQa7Ioshbjt7PVmRox2firQcmHDdVkXMYnPZRFrDf4k8zrCOaXMfvCAlYiZwqjVacMA-Q-nZLY-ZKujsWpVQ5UY814/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvENrcBrRvbQ2RVrbn9NJ3HDayA91osldAnTLo98_l_uYEi05xWsQa7Ioshbjt7PVmRox2firQcmHDdVkXMYnPZRFrDf4k8zrCOaXMfvCAlYiZwqjVacMA-Q-nZLY-ZKujsWpVQ5UY814/s1600/BombayJules+Groups+7+-+12.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud of myself for getting this group of young rickshaw drivers to smile.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-8903760466016246572014-03-17T12:25:00.000+05:302014-03-17T12:25:20.706+05:30Colourful Holi, Colourful Barber Shop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Actually this post is not about Holi. This is the third year I've been India during Holi and the third year that Mr Jules and I have locked ourselves firmly inside the apartment. I think if I could go and see the Holi celebrations somewhere truly spiritual, I would be completely immersed (literally) in the event. Instead, the closest I can come is by walking down the street and having coloured water pumped in my face by small children and teenagers. Not really my idea of fun! MaximumCityMadam will not be happy at me saying this - as she did give me the opportunity of attending a Holi Party at her building ("using the finest wash-offable organic powders in a sanitised, friendly and civilised environment you know!") - but we still declined. Baaa Humbug to BombayJules! (I also didn't want to end up with a multi-coloured dog)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So instead I will post some pictures of something that recently caught my eye. Whilst driving to Dhobi-Ghat, I came upon this row of barber shops near Bombay Dyeing in Lower Parel. I was struck by the colourful 1950s era chairs and the old fashioned products. I got out of the car to take photos and the barber-shop owners were very obliging about me coming in to take close-ups. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These al-fresco pavement barbers can be found all over the city and are a step up from the man-with-a-stool-and-a-razor on the pavement or even more basic - the-man-with-a-crate-and-a-rusty-knife-in-the-gutter. Fascinating!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some pics...and <span style="color: red;">HA</span><span style="color: #f1c232;">PP</span><span style="color: blue;">Y</span> <span style="color: lime;">HO</span><span style="color: purple;">LI</span> <span style="color: cyan;">EV</span><span style="color: orange;">ER</span><span style="color: magenta;">YO</span><span style="color: blue;">NE!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrei_dX8uYft05NFxFl41ICu0_mVtFDc_wRnn3QDeQJJV5DvbkQLUCozwOQ8VcSGsGB_IyCeGF396HMB-xRRPzDUAIMKhAYXyVjizQFmotOfYAdH-g_ikt1E1SJQU0aj6Hi_xBYDB9nzM/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrei_dX8uYft05NFxFl41ICu0_mVtFDc_wRnn3QDeQJJV5DvbkQLUCozwOQ8VcSGsGB_IyCeGF396HMB-xRRPzDUAIMKhAYXyVjizQFmotOfYAdH-g_ikt1E1SJQU0aj6Hi_xBYDB9nzM/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+01.jpg" height="504" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabulous colours. Chairs are pink/purple combo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLunvOjW0MXwqhidrtKcIUw4UFU7cPEMHl66UFBnPSnfVO5tL_544O8CcHBf_cfGj2_wxylcX-efSFyXNAwJC77buvLVr2z4gHnCYYUnYKeDJlFKCnU5C7xzdm8kXfdoFr5PQeDTGL-g/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTLunvOjW0MXwqhidrtKcIUw4UFU7cPEMHl66UFBnPSnfVO5tL_544O8CcHBf_cfGj2_wxylcX-efSFyXNAwJC77buvLVr2z4gHnCYYUnYKeDJlFKCnU5C7xzdm8kXfdoFr5PQeDTGL-g/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+02.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYGtm_wrEeP40oeJP7Xj6w4vxMuzeY_jDrX9B7QFNlng2kf7GVpUbuXU-XmOu_237MEZjEuQZV6W4zzqgZHN1VFJXCBA5IOzX5bSfzSD6Qc-3mmTJhhJuPDIHDMt64uqMVk3NoMqg5y8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYGtm_wrEeP40oeJP7Xj6w4vxMuzeY_jDrX9B7QFNlng2kf7GVpUbuXU-XmOu_237MEZjEuQZV6W4zzqgZHN1VFJXCBA5IOzX5bSfzSD6Qc-3mmTJhhJuPDIHDMt64uqMVk3NoMqg5y8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+03.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hair oil, shaving bush</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eQN2BZAu9R4oKVx_ESIWzjxT2Yl7LaZCMUZjFMfWU8WQND4zy6t0nax_0ubXauz-dKX1SrIQWLJqfpeuB8XiO6BJk7i8JtBXIA7hknRgc__ZXaUR6RbZE4PeY_eJ3U1g3ayX7TklZTs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eQN2BZAu9R4oKVx_ESIWzjxT2Yl7LaZCMUZjFMfWU8WQND4zy6t0nax_0ubXauz-dKX1SrIQWLJqfpeuB8XiO6BJk7i8JtBXIA7hknRgc__ZXaUR6RbZE4PeY_eJ3U1g3ayX7TklZTs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+04.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am not sure I would want any of this put on MY skin!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8y0PobMzRas7e9tvjbThJKf4uqPzvLt0sZQzvtVRxBmYvpMCNLy1NN2vxjvs_UGcNDuiY7O-QzBNaPCprUqcwVwkmQ5emsVsjTrAyE7hTX6IGJj39YQOyRQsGfPXywa2lJuYPrbypsr0/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8y0PobMzRas7e9tvjbThJKf4uqPzvLt0sZQzvtVRxBmYvpMCNLy1NN2vxjvs_UGcNDuiY7O-QzBNaPCprUqcwVwkmQ5emsVsjTrAyE7hTX6IGJj39YQOyRQsGfPXywa2lJuYPrbypsr0/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+05.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Busy shaving clients. Chairs are all black</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu50eFoKkng1eIZr_thT6nO_gKFhV-p_Qgh08K3TRT922qyD9CXZkhXbNr5zRDMly_VT74SaZ6Jv90Vo48nGJX6HlE4yCZyY4D5UcKQ-OBY4c6B_IKIxgw_EHz54Jnn4ddEXvMs3Gxio/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu50eFoKkng1eIZr_thT6nO_gKFhV-p_Qgh08K3TRT922qyD9CXZkhXbNr5zRDMly_VT74SaZ6Jv90Vo48nGJX6HlE4yCZyY4D5UcKQ-OBY4c6B_IKIxgw_EHz54Jnn4ddEXvMs3Gxio/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+06.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh Sweeney Todd, how I dream of you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyd4utsYnNVfVh1uNf9NLaqsoa0LcKH-8dwxeIYuua0piuxm5xDizG1l7zsgOyYQjO9I_-ujKkXecO_K36TX-NN3j30zK_CXY5WsXiI_xXxRBDcpn3n8E7Y7rnpDP882o6orG5fTyvis/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyd4utsYnNVfVh1uNf9NLaqsoa0LcKH-8dwxeIYuua0piuxm5xDizG1l7zsgOyYQjO9I_-ujKkXecO_K36TX-NN3j30zK_CXY5WsXiI_xXxRBDcpn3n8E7Y7rnpDP882o6orG5fTyvis/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+07.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaJxugtocRlSewwQtgPBjxCmlZ2Au3WSGFhHEDb2OEIalhIXhbAhvnqKVw9PmuhEmBZS5QnUyNQd682cT3VAWENVvq2BSB7KFKSVTDLOCrxkZ-SMNT9Lq7OBxp0cXc3KvICxgElip3hc/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaJxugtocRlSewwQtgPBjxCmlZ2Au3WSGFhHEDb2OEIalhIXhbAhvnqKVw9PmuhEmBZS5QnUyNQd682cT3VAWENVvq2BSB7KFKSVTDLOCrxkZ-SMNT9Lq7OBxp0cXc3KvICxgElip3hc/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+08.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqPMB1hp82evwUVuW7MPpfMTUpxuZfWhLWXjZoRUHHjb2bE0U6avUIiCr9ieX1uawZ7JqXO65H3BOBnJ2W_AeROHpmXyKHUxJmWLD5AZJD65cQ4c6LPYc6wI5h4UNEO2s4hanwHRG7GA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqPMB1hp82evwUVuW7MPpfMTUpxuZfWhLWXjZoRUHHjb2bE0U6avUIiCr9ieX1uawZ7JqXO65H3BOBnJ2W_AeROHpmXyKHUxJmWLD5AZJD65cQ4c6LPYc6wI5h4UNEO2s4hanwHRG7GA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+09.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPueaSh5R-dUxA2ubxH47LIpP5y6DNDhnIU_fr1Rq4GG1BiSYT2J47nCpRI5TJ-UVTk3OshN7psr96_a5oHcJq58fing31-j2RDm4lY2LJdZqmV0Vj5QLQKM1C5bCu6NRzxMgDN9JuEGU/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPueaSh5R-dUxA2ubxH47LIpP5y6DNDhnIU_fr1Rq4GG1BiSYT2J47nCpRI5TJ-UVTk3OshN7psr96_a5oHcJq58fing31-j2RDm4lY2LJdZqmV0Vj5QLQKM1C5bCu6NRzxMgDN9JuEGU/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+10.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing (trying to look nonchalant) Chairs are a nice peach/eau-de-nil combo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzYR6PHEHXE-KmobjX-gd4IxCgYNxBCwCRugFBv_LGBbTFKBcnFNwfyPiLSOhCS9mQYU2LyISfgLuVWmKFGbnVAFIsFCqzBjT0kDQH6bbleLBjaFMmiqzqj7oRU2A8D-14UyOcysR6AA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzYR6PHEHXE-KmobjX-gd4IxCgYNxBCwCRugFBv_LGBbTFKBcnFNwfyPiLSOhCS9mQYU2LyISfgLuVWmKFGbnVAFIsFCqzBjT0kDQH6bbleLBjaFMmiqzqj7oRU2A8D-14UyOcysR6AA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+11.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3zJ3LMYH2gc50fZeVXYmadZTCzSZMqlD_r_zwNy0LO2-xEqDxntWC580eEemdNe27M6XcDinUfOUEsbt-5rY1CrrB9Dmr5Up4fEiQ1-YXCgx62QMe4TIZ9fvpNjA5Kck6Z_2gF7f6a0/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd3zJ3LMYH2gc50fZeVXYmadZTCzSZMqlD_r_zwNy0LO2-xEqDxntWC580eEemdNe27M6XcDinUfOUEsbt-5rY1CrrB9Dmr5Up4fEiQ1-YXCgx62QMe4TIZ9fvpNjA5Kck6Z_2gF7f6a0/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+12.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Price list makes for fascinating reading. Moustache cut for 10 Rs anyone? I wonder what a 'Godrej' is?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcCL43i5vEedNThwN0_XjzJJMQScIBYbFlo9uXjbBjMQHqDmVVheKKeTAQGJFyhzNTe1ka8kOvhCS-VG6t0Jr1csmK-XLPtjNPYuyfDqS9RFiMsZcZ4CEOABorHjB3O96fQOLwuXnkow/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcCL43i5vEedNThwN0_XjzJJMQScIBYbFlo9uXjbBjMQHqDmVVheKKeTAQGJFyhzNTe1ka8kOvhCS-VG6t0Jr1csmK-XLPtjNPYuyfDqS9RFiMsZcZ4CEOABorHjB3O96fQOLwuXnkow/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+13.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLd6FE1BeTK4T3DBA71dUE6HdrCN2xzByOinymODGinmqD8XXmNStjSKxG3BO3G2LNiRU6leKa_BvYelfiKxuj_JG9GWlEmYngXco9wZAuVu0c2hfu_VecBIesExmRf9kizRfva37i73E/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLd6FE1BeTK4T3DBA71dUE6HdrCN2xzByOinymODGinmqD8XXmNStjSKxG3BO3G2LNiRU6leKa_BvYelfiKxuj_JG9GWlEmYngXco9wZAuVu0c2hfu_VecBIesExmRf9kizRfva37i73E/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+14.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chairs in a blue/brown combo. Barber shop owner wears matching outfit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-vuYAfkfY_J6wrgt2-TgfA86DS4msVPmlXj-6ryHcZKYaGgu59LSmuFTTP45Nrvvn7pcKEn3jQ7My3nnuUllC0pDpZwkVokETn6Yk6EQsTNOtE_w6ySfe-4rsWnQnhjY69S-qs7Au6M/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-vuYAfkfY_J6wrgt2-TgfA86DS4msVPmlXj-6ryHcZKYaGgu59LSmuFTTP45Nrvvn7pcKEn3jQ7My3nnuUllC0pDpZwkVokETn6Yk6EQsTNOtE_w6ySfe-4rsWnQnhjY69S-qs7Au6M/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+15.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like to think that these chairs are 1950s originals </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4rW-6JI3Dnr78tx7CVLD2_YZe2SgkeayXNBjJ6qljqOCs11_Ytp8lv5e9omGUg533L1-9fo-zZQOgzMp3s4PjxFjaYH4AlJqgD6yhweS_BPq9CYRbYf02oqKAmVsLqj7qU_gfdWiEQs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4rW-6JI3Dnr78tx7CVLD2_YZe2SgkeayXNBjJ6qljqOCs11_Ytp8lv5e9omGUg533L1-9fo-zZQOgzMp3s4PjxFjaYH4AlJqgD6yhweS_BPq9CYRbYf02oqKAmVsLqj7qU_gfdWiEQs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+16.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaving brush, comb and towels have both seen better days!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpaUvAx_xB0Gn8BsIiCs1UIjOKIhxAqC3yJzhknvVrrcJArCPwrcWDBSDAFaZ6WwxAwMuqBTi3u-KLfOmzKzl_xaMJJShYtSKMUx-l3MtfxygsCPNlO4wdYORmrLKzC64qhFo7-hRQUU/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpaUvAx_xB0Gn8BsIiCs1UIjOKIhxAqC3yJzhknvVrrcJArCPwrcWDBSDAFaZ6WwxAwMuqBTi3u-KLfOmzKzl_xaMJJShYtSKMUx-l3MtfxygsCPNlO4wdYORmrLKzC64qhFo7-hRQUU/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+17.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The barber himself perfectly groomed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhFNwS58c9_NLqq-mvAqb4o4AtIzyUaKqU5MJ_cDj364KsBPg9xYNOgC5VnaEgc7LYoc2Hd2f1mAsR9Id_Qk9SUsiq-4ysYrK0mxSuH_y2kSG_JlsUli80b507M7A1VTSSC7WjsPdKHc/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhFNwS58c9_NLqq-mvAqb4o4AtIzyUaKqU5MJ_cDj364KsBPg9xYNOgC5VnaEgc7LYoc2Hd2f1mAsR9Id_Qk9SUsiq-4ysYrK0mxSuH_y2kSG_JlsUli80b507M7A1VTSSC7WjsPdKHc/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+18.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another cut-throat razor - I try to get a close-up without making his hand slip!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNJ8fJMtLuaJEK4cQNXSj37Sn-TkVH5-T1V22tfG3QLNqpAP9bl_Il50EScBAe3ZTZQmScMGlsJSoATE2qG0G4G8qn9EvBvTwWqTtefR2JJ8hbm6NPFOvObcbVzHtU7tYAItKi24mrpA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNJ8fJMtLuaJEK4cQNXSj37Sn-TkVH5-T1V22tfG3QLNqpAP9bl_Il50EScBAe3ZTZQmScMGlsJSoATE2qG0G4G8qn9EvBvTwWqTtefR2JJ8hbm6NPFOvObcbVzHtU7tYAItKi24mrpA/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+19.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDU4GZkutZ3CIVG0Rm5Uvlda0JPBPey9fySz9xiH3c_3sZXuoUGrOfGa2qlC7D7yDzhYpDsov0wrc6jJR8xbt0PiQIUp3Zv17koJipn9QhvjsDX0rAmc89Eo_DrFTYg0Ez8gaStixP1iE/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDU4GZkutZ3CIVG0Rm5Uvlda0JPBPey9fySz9xiH3c_3sZXuoUGrOfGa2qlC7D7yDzhYpDsov0wrc6jJR8xbt0PiQIUp3Zv17koJipn9QhvjsDX0rAmc89Eo_DrFTYg0Ez8gaStixP1iE/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+20.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVHVocxCAa-7jx8zI2Yip9s00yOaNIs78XLyFc3PCD1evX9EkXyyNFBrlMSxgcxbeyWCdvreqB5MhELGNKPQH9dGrssNrTY18JC7ppkM9G0keGUugSVzMJWfVB1c-D5bht_Fk8dfQg8U/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVHVocxCAa-7jx8zI2Yip9s00yOaNIs78XLyFc3PCD1evX9EkXyyNFBrlMSxgcxbeyWCdvreqB5MhELGNKPQH9dGrssNrTY18JC7ppkM9G0keGUugSVzMJWfVB1c-D5bht_Fk8dfQg8U/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+21.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stuck in the 70s....this is what the clients come away looking like..if they are lucky! (Shades are optional)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrSF7qtiHAhqGwPn-uGmq29TK6QsF3lew-0Apg9iLyMpW547P2_3uqPrFA6TxihonaXgDPJhpFfGgQn46LPC3BxCanN7Pp5PSsIQQdXw8PEmWI-U5MObBJqlVEBpUqhHRO-a0kfNCiHs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrSF7qtiHAhqGwPn-uGmq29TK6QsF3lew-0Apg9iLyMpW547P2_3uqPrFA6TxihonaXgDPJhpFfGgQn46LPC3BxCanN7Pp5PSsIQQdXw8PEmWI-U5MObBJqlVEBpUqhHRO-a0kfNCiHs/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+22.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chairs have baby blue/electric blue colour combo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTur4AEmfZ8x2ftWCdSTdP_AXCUHlESANT6hej7UZCwgOJuGAPt6gSr7mGtFDoErmsNeKWA7PvWDY1IPsgeQkTp_DBjmLwxgwgOrpg-CClyg15iM1bhddyMIytYYeoO2dhDl2vVvLQoM4/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTur4AEmfZ8x2ftWCdSTdP_AXCUHlESANT6hej7UZCwgOJuGAPt6gSr7mGtFDoErmsNeKWA7PvWDY1IPsgeQkTp_DBjmLwxgwgOrpg-CClyg15iM1bhddyMIytYYeoO2dhDl2vVvLQoM4/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+23.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOZSlXTeBMsR2srBcVlYq3f9nPqDkY2w7GdmKpPk8ZC3FujcrWXFvmcKF4_yYiyP3YamQM8I-eY7LJ0JIcVx5dJy05_fk_veY8Q2EvzviiqbblkZeNQTuxhYQ1AdvVd9hZ9CeowKEYMw/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOZSlXTeBMsR2srBcVlYq3f9nPqDkY2w7GdmKpPk8ZC3FujcrWXFvmcKF4_yYiyP3YamQM8I-eY7LJ0JIcVx5dJy05_fk_veY8Q2EvzviiqbblkZeNQTuxhYQ1AdvVd9hZ9CeowKEYMw/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+24.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB48oL2PmUOJMXlrBHEUNfceP-OLnNfI5jxzHdzNZcAqursXBeNX6G2qWca9-80B73FZvQd6R1lGePH1iy4O75DwemaJq5WhoZK4Kkrt7acxDXOe-meXCHoHgwqVZoWcZs3N2f8EOiPP8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB48oL2PmUOJMXlrBHEUNfceP-OLnNfI5jxzHdzNZcAqursXBeNX6G2qWca9-80B73FZvQd6R1lGePH1iy4O75DwemaJq5WhoZK4Kkrt7acxDXOe-meXCHoHgwqVZoWcZs3N2f8EOiPP8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+25.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This looks like a very trendy haircut for the average Indian man. Am liking it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevlP4oT49QQ-0E00lg9soR6UnmRk3_D9AdqO1OdbXTGznBJYQZE-QHD7tklF7V91hJ7I_K8WsYqN8OpVe2bjn2GRKnyssrxXbaOgg-hAtXOj0mtgJx0uOTgAvFPRsA9JD-h2fVJwU1u4/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevlP4oT49QQ-0E00lg9soR6UnmRk3_D9AdqO1OdbXTGznBJYQZE-QHD7tklF7V91hJ7I_K8WsYqN8OpVe2bjn2GRKnyssrxXbaOgg-hAtXOj0mtgJx0uOTgAvFPRsA9JD-h2fVJwU1u4/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+26.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue and white chairs...? Not so keen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG34VI_20uj_4k-O3uUNwVQEXl6O8_cZMJM9gpCd4PggTLnFzEVHQLJjTVw_U1gMUJ2eBbiWulM1WxCwJ91t8gIrTOXTrPRgROOKLQSrObptqDKc_wF96KhMyXeMSeOpL5-AiPQ0FtV28/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG34VI_20uj_4k-O3uUNwVQEXl6O8_cZMJM9gpCd4PggTLnFzEVHQLJjTVw_U1gMUJ2eBbiWulM1WxCwJ91t8gIrTOXTrPRgROOKLQSrObptqDKc_wF96KhMyXeMSeOpL5-AiPQ0FtV28/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+27.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgLEDL2tdt7adSWlLbWHiFH_Z4DXLx8tt-DmT5JUdBfGIP90pysDPL3lmoxnq3epcUWavS1r18r2QNZR21KDgrY6JjZ7otERoWnu3O_qoMZIkE96nItW7_9a2GwmJPiTz5A4VFhKGtq8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgLEDL2tdt7adSWlLbWHiFH_Z4DXLx8tt-DmT5JUdBfGIP90pysDPL3lmoxnq3epcUWavS1r18r2QNZR21KDgrY6JjZ7otERoWnu3O_qoMZIkE96nItW7_9a2GwmJPiTz5A4VFhKGtq8/s1600/Mumbai+Barber+Shop+-+28.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Row of barbers...all working in harmony.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0HPvd23EgC0pNpgwDE-Ug_CDf62Rajf6mYqWj-E_AQb4ka6KliLhs3hyphenhyphenwWshGoKtpxtcbK2hvTq1n7xpsRxdwwCKYKctTGzKs7TN201RcNmnC741_tQgfuXzqnTN73pqU6DDi3b_9FM/s1600/Holi-Festival-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0HPvd23EgC0pNpgwDE-Ug_CDf62Rajf6mYqWj-E_AQb4ka6KliLhs3hyphenhyphenwWshGoKtpxtcbK2hvTq1n7xpsRxdwwCKYKctTGzKs7TN201RcNmnC741_tQgfuXzqnTN73pqU6DDi3b_9FM/s1600/Holi-Festival-2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what I'm missing....mmmm, no thanks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-24807359351278899302014-03-14T18:35:00.000+05:302014-03-14T18:35:02.034+05:30Dhobi Ghat - The World's Largest Outdoor Laundry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My photography group recently went on a fascinating excursion to Dhobi Ghat - the '<i>World's Largest Outdoor Laundry</i>'. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsb_NBV2JF_NFMLQ4-P3sLXRaLhc7c1BuqUH625Nl5sZhoL4HeZL-Dg_SjAX4C_ArMCGbINM5Jqd2KOM3uwqZ_rRgxlcW83KuVVKiZZ-I-Krnf0_38ZeeKIWsq9wRdQjMGQAvlz9Ru7WI/s1600/DSC_9112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsb_NBV2JF_NFMLQ4-P3sLXRaLhc7c1BuqUH625Nl5sZhoL4HeZL-Dg_SjAX4C_ArMCGbINM5Jqd2KOM3uwqZ_rRgxlcW83KuVVKiZZ-I-Krnf0_38ZeeKIWsq9wRdQjMGQAvlz9Ru7WI/s1600/DSC_9112.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An amazing view down into the Dhobi Ghat can be had from Mahalaxmi Station Bridge <br />
(further details of how to get into the laundry can be found at the bottom of this post)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If, you think that the words 'Outdoor Laundry' suggest an al-fresco group of giant washing machines that swirl foaming suds to get that 'bluey white-ness', then you'd be wrong. The Dhobi Ghat is, in fact, a large area comprised of hundreds of concrete troughs in which men (young and old) stand up to their knees in soapy water, bashing the life out of dirty linen. There is a relatively small amount of automation - the occasional tumble drier (very useful in the monsoon I should think) but apart from that - all washing is hung out to dry on the miles of washing line that hangs above the Dhobi Ghat washing area. Inside the covered areas, you will find men in flimsy vests, using Victorian-era irons filled with hot coals pressing the laundered items. And more men doing the folding. In amongst all of the action, are porters hauling-in and hauling-back-out, huge piles of washing. Methods of transport include by foot - with laundry bundled into giant sacks on their backs; or on the racks of Hercules bicycles; or piled up on handcarts, which are then dragged half way (or whole way) across the city.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DJpCZ5bx8imxenA-p29yenMwuicynO0LVajNWmNOD_YgJvcyClBoLAtDG5cwKBtl1Q2KxfzO2T-1sVuZLvs8AkmSOTgvcA5SaZNPLWIip0lXqWI-OB-dNEuGBF7WLWH6zuzR54xjXe4/s1600/DSC_9308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DJpCZ5bx8imxenA-p29yenMwuicynO0LVajNWmNOD_YgJvcyClBoLAtDG5cwKBtl1Q2KxfzO2T-1sVuZLvs8AkmSOTgvcA5SaZNPLWIip0lXqWI-OB-dNEuGBF7WLWH6zuzR54xjXe4/s1600/DSC_9308.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We were told that 250,000 individual items of linen are washed here everyday. To me, that's incredible! On a daily basis, Mumbai's hotels send their bedlinen to the Ghat; hospitals send in staff uniforms and sheets from their operating theatres; posh spas send their towels; and individuals send their household's dirty clothing. Some of the big clothing manufacturers even send brand new stock here to be washed so that the dies can be set. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9L-aHFTTk9iUTtXgkEiT6DxA-16QB-7Oim2yooqGO57GMWq-XVSbgpWs5aKG9QONTcAvt4uGM46KHS8uiYVQqYXVAOcezJkZhDnKXbJsClD3B06RCUngixFpsKAKC02SupeMk6SOaDg/s1600/DSC_9146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9L-aHFTTk9iUTtXgkEiT6DxA-16QB-7Oim2yooqGO57GMWq-XVSbgpWs5aKG9QONTcAvt4uGM46KHS8uiYVQqYXVAOcezJkZhDnKXbJsClD3B06RCUngixFpsKAKC02SupeMk6SOaDg/s1600/DSC_9146.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the 731 Dhobis that work here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszkkfojyv-5Y83Gibn24b4ycPIbu-VjD7m1Pe-UI1Z1lyd7-VOStbJYPFfF3O836lcrHO6OM1LvXeu6hPVD2InPfE1X29HZqa9UWMfnhDL8nydm_l81pWTXxtB0QhyIRQH34luW7frAw/s1600/DSC_9153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszkkfojyv-5Y83Gibn24b4ycPIbu-VjD7m1Pe-UI1Z1lyd7-VOStbJYPFfF3O836lcrHO6OM1LvXeu6hPVD2InPfE1X29HZqa9UWMfnhDL8nydm_l81pWTXxtB0QhyIRQH34luW7frAw/s1600/DSC_9153.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I expect that this profession is very good for your upper body strength</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Dhobi (which translates as 'washerman') is a caste group who are specialists in washing clothes - the job is hereditary. There are about 731 of them working in the Dhobi Ghat. These washermen are mostly migrants from other parts of India - who live in situ with their families. The Dhobi Ghat - a registered organisation itself - was built in 1890 to service the English and Parsi population of the city. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The laundry is now owned by the dastardly BMC (municipal council) which charges the workers rent and the maintenance costs of the troughs ('ghats'). I have read <a href="http://www.dhobikalyan.org/" target="_blank">here</a> that the BMC does little in return for the [what have been described as outrageous] charges - by not providing utilities and not clearing away rubbish [as is typical!]. The laundrymen scrape a living from their profession - a few rupees is all it costs to wash a large item of linen and from this they must pay all their family's living expenses, as well as sending money back to their villages.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you enter the laundry - you will see a sign that proudly announces the organisation's appearance in the Guinness Book of Records - for the largest number of people simultaneously hand-washing clothes at a single location (496) in 2011.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLL2SD6x9biPZrNDkpnrESfc3clEUJfWV2hW9fGQ2K9kiHanE2xPvAD-mY8mBdWiW_7x2lsroyNkjnuhhNeh1Ppq5fNQTF4Sdi-bk-QnLuaqG3fdAMISWmraoDwBT3VbK6w_maki3CP0/s1600/DSC_9155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLL2SD6x9biPZrNDkpnrESfc3clEUJfWV2hW9fGQ2K9kiHanE2xPvAD-mY8mBdWiW_7x2lsroyNkjnuhhNeh1Ppq5fNQTF4Sdi-bk-QnLuaqG3fdAMISWmraoDwBT3VbK6w_maki3CP0/s1600/DSC_9155.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The concrete ghats...and a <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/01/ubiquitous-india-no-3-hercules-bicycle.html" target="_blank">Hercules bicycle</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A trip into the Dhobi Ghat really is a fascinating insight into a profession that is experiencing so little modernisation. To see clothes being thrashed against a flogging stone and linens being pressed with Victorian irons is strange against the backdrop of hi-tec, hi-rises being built just behind the living quarters. But then again - the Dhobi Ghat is so typical of the contrasts that Mumbai is famous for. Of course, if high levels of automation were to be introduced, then hundreds of people would be done out of their jobs. No need to be too efficient eh?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaAG2WH_JdZSJbwjf5NbzVYCfLQzAVzKzNnw-z4tl02ipMzUyKCawWOd0-xN6N7xotQGv4FpYJokDEDYR1zzRpJ3ofU7mqhA6Av8zwd1foQY6IM0Ycv_cI6ELnTBLfWxjU0AEjarD-4U/s1600/DSC_9168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilaAG2WH_JdZSJbwjf5NbzVYCfLQzAVzKzNnw-z4tl02ipMzUyKCawWOd0-xN6N7xotQGv4FpYJokDEDYR1zzRpJ3ofU7mqhA6Av8zwd1foQY6IM0Ycv_cI6ELnTBLfWxjU0AEjarD-4U/s1600/DSC_9168.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clothes bashed against a flogging stone (beat that Bosch, Miele and Whirlpool!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_QiaBAOwvZ-ii0faEOw-7pf4cCttFLobYHIjVjKE6WjrXrJDEOjQ0tRXczFA9y0bm_e0qenxxUNR3Jt3K1SgVfXIdbImGAcdJ8hsEMEoaYXken8uU0hoYcdiHTW-NwrcRf4CCZ70IOA/s1600/DSC_9183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_QiaBAOwvZ-ii0faEOw-7pf4cCttFLobYHIjVjKE6WjrXrJDEOjQ0tRXczFA9y0bm_e0qenxxUNR3Jt3K1SgVfXIdbImGAcdJ8hsEMEoaYXken8uU0hoYcdiHTW-NwrcRf4CCZ70IOA/s1600/DSC_9183.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCb1YnKC8qf2Fnq5UEIeEh7SyAz-SEe3a80q9dEqlLfTSq1_sdDEbdC3lFPmHYZqzOIAxxCfHXrvKEQ-BYJW8VEjLmM4O1WXKgjh1CZ_PGWUDFpIWZi6CBFL0CFz0AU4zITLBtyt-zPXE/s1600/DSC_9192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCb1YnKC8qf2Fnq5UEIeEh7SyAz-SEe3a80q9dEqlLfTSq1_sdDEbdC3lFPmHYZqzOIAxxCfHXrvKEQ-BYJW8VEjLmM4O1WXKgjh1CZ_PGWUDFpIWZi6CBFL0CFz0AU4zITLBtyt-zPXE/s1600/DSC_9192.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely smile from a friendly young Dhobi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD0F5nF96n3UWP5ObKLWmFoXG5Azp7e2vOuLwhtYhS1IFIprjNlfgyIULHeoZKtlby8cUFv5FA5KpRxadrvWv8dKo9Q7H14f-QXWyaYJSyCc4j6Xn3P2qTkzBVPj-h83pM2_INsjy9yY/s1600/DSC_9217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD0F5nF96n3UWP5ObKLWmFoXG5Azp7e2vOuLwhtYhS1IFIprjNlfgyIULHeoZKtlby8cUFv5FA5KpRxadrvWv8dKo9Q7H14f-QXWyaYJSyCc4j6Xn3P2qTkzBVPj-h83pM2_INsjy9yY/s1600/DSC_9217.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfta1nPc-f-IkB5gi0oVkb-FhjcnFwMfUSAfz6GAXOefSh3vwS8TpFkbKieEJyKpPzOQnRzGfCCNVeKfrkPuVrTYcrdb2rmTumOtGsevZc8oRWhvsyiqreMBBtf73P_LWJAx_5YFRytfE/s1600/DSC_9231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfta1nPc-f-IkB5gi0oVkb-FhjcnFwMfUSAfz6GAXOefSh3vwS8TpFkbKieEJyKpPzOQnRzGfCCNVeKfrkPuVrTYcrdb2rmTumOtGsevZc8oRWhvsyiqreMBBtf73P_LWJAx_5YFRytfE/s1600/DSC_9231.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A family member helps to pick through saris prior to washing. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OhdVxzkvWFArO0IopUYhtYaq_aFBayyHN608A9ngIFm27VSA7CTeWRcTHybzJf4h_Fig45LtejBi53jBP7oirFaL8zAZQA3NfzbiljDb_uH5opYkXAI3T_xWIDvALdMU0JYx734EmR8/s1600/DSC_9266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0OhdVxzkvWFArO0IopUYhtYaq_aFBayyHN608A9ngIFm27VSA7CTeWRcTHybzJf4h_Fig45LtejBi53jBP7oirFaL8zAZQA3NfzbiljDb_uH5opYkXAI3T_xWIDvALdMU0JYx734EmR8/s1600/DSC_9266.jpg" height="442" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure I would call these bedsheets 'whiter than white'!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP0bgsHxpLwXQt19_RXPnCG4Nq647fSk_GdSTrcAwnR3O5OWGuxCYvHFnD2pRbVPHp5FnZTbPFZc5mm3s69qx68e3DRxz04IIw62FvPRx9u2Z1XSLTcyCYpwxx-XyzV6l6JNN786_e6M/s1600/DSC_9278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicP0bgsHxpLwXQt19_RXPnCG4Nq647fSk_GdSTrcAwnR3O5OWGuxCYvHFnD2pRbVPHp5FnZTbPFZc5mm3s69qx68e3DRxz04IIw62FvPRx9u2Z1XSLTcyCYpwxx-XyzV6l6JNN786_e6M/s1600/DSC_9278.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern housing developments behind Dhobi Ghat flood the view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm9WCb9NV9F6GZ39U_x525xZoCXwqLP7fJrlgL0FC7w72pvd2_o7XWQgZnApEcZLGvxM2RD9GSeSLvWRS83Affam5d1LhJ2EwHLosAmFSBe8iTNNDSwmzJLUJj8NOrolpE65i6H4YLcfw/s1600/DSC_9288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm9WCb9NV9F6GZ39U_x525xZoCXwqLP7fJrlgL0FC7w72pvd2_o7XWQgZnApEcZLGvxM2RD9GSeSLvWRS83Affam5d1LhJ2EwHLosAmFSBe8iTNNDSwmzJLUJj8NOrolpE65i6H4YLcfw/s1600/DSC_9288.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hate to think what standing in soapy water all day long does to your skin - hope he uses plenty of moisturiser!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1j3z3Iug475u3d9JTXqzenmMIr2smXi2C5VDXpP3CN4PcuWAnAmzezMiPA9zQdvmn2btd2e_JkiPrISlwqKMMpZMrSfYFV57M0hShqt5GTbYEWW93sGWbalB-zSZjQlTx-I5o_x4DasI/s1600/DSC_9300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1j3z3Iug475u3d9JTXqzenmMIr2smXi2C5VDXpP3CN4PcuWAnAmzezMiPA9zQdvmn2btd2e_JkiPrISlwqKMMpZMrSfYFV57M0hShqt5GTbYEWW93sGWbalB-zSZjQlTx-I5o_x4DasI/s1600/DSC_9300.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPrBXWBO4D2FoqnLD7VUbOqkRv7eZiG_UGqb0DSlrDr0CEcpvnnVZKFDxVCG9L2O83PP451GQXLJ4-V2ZfNp_3TNFLQJsYd3O-soxpeBCMGZIRugwhmY0W-O8NSFH9ibStC1L5WxB0Ow/s1600/DSC_9323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiPrBXWBO4D2FoqnLD7VUbOqkRv7eZiG_UGqb0DSlrDr0CEcpvnnVZKFDxVCG9L2O83PP451GQXLJ4-V2ZfNp_3TNFLQJsYd3O-soxpeBCMGZIRugwhmY0W-O8NSFH9ibStC1L5WxB0Ow/s1600/DSC_9323.jpg" height="640" width="423" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Fi69hkZ24yNCII_T5cQN61Z6R0w51uBIxLGE2XCHcG5PvdltY-KtnU6USL3_Bbv6hn4TiMk7diLzz5jFRpiNtLDYOezps_fcqBgR3et9dY9P2tuETlWjmX59UU8qNqHYjI4qtTxXUXU/s1600/DSC_9334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Fi69hkZ24yNCII_T5cQN61Z6R0w51uBIxLGE2XCHcG5PvdltY-KtnU6USL3_Bbv6hn4TiMk7diLzz5jFRpiNtLDYOezps_fcqBgR3et9dY9P2tuETlWjmX59UU8qNqHYjI4qtTxXUXU/s1600/DSC_9334.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piling bundles of laundry on to handcarts.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqOtB1LyRPiotNwC24h7MKTzwN1NFh4kRZAxXbt4-REKJq5eFmCyuA6AhWSg_9UkUnUJmMLlc1aIPZ3tjqiN_Y_qay1ZUPY6vl_QjQRoOgO85LzavqU_duLZ7NsxAb6CoCUzO589ndXM/s1600/DSC_9337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqOtB1LyRPiotNwC24h7MKTzwN1NFh4kRZAxXbt4-REKJq5eFmCyuA6AhWSg_9UkUnUJmMLlc1aIPZ3tjqiN_Y_qay1ZUPY6vl_QjQRoOgO85LzavqU_duLZ7NsxAb6CoCUzO589ndXM/s1600/DSC_9337.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artistic shot of handcarts...well it was a photo outing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTfmPCtTMx9kbnbQ9Oyv6Phn8TyphmVMRgTXpF0J0pZuJtIdfBobd0VTvoowi1PnnTW5W7SJ2utsji541NQWeItykflzKjsP6mmODjAjGWhuQgplLHOhDAERWpS60IgrFNhxdpX4c9Cc/s1600/DSC_9344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTfmPCtTMx9kbnbQ9Oyv6Phn8TyphmVMRgTXpF0J0pZuJtIdfBobd0VTvoowi1PnnTW5W7SJ2utsji541NQWeItykflzKjsP6mmODjAjGWhuQgplLHOhDAERWpS60IgrFNhxdpX4c9Cc/s1600/DSC_9344.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spindly old porter shifting a heavy bundle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-top: 1.5em; padding: 0px; text-decoration: inherit;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Wog3uI2w0aC9gnuCqLjjmybccWIOsUF1bgCCNwRpLMPyy5iLikvNZWVkblhuwVi3hpTzCVTsz3i3Q9iFWUaRcVoYSAPHzSzCD89jUYV40nRno1WlubINNH5_bxkwH3zcn6zyCGWiw5A/s1600/DSC_9117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Wog3uI2w0aC9gnuCqLjjmybccWIOsUF1bgCCNwRpLMPyy5iLikvNZWVkblhuwVi3hpTzCVTsz3i3Q9iFWUaRcVoYSAPHzSzCD89jUYV40nRno1WlubINNH5_bxkwH3zcn6zyCGWiw5A/s1600/DSC_9117.jpg" height="180" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Washing lines cover the roofs of the Dhobi Ghat like a second ceiling</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtVhzYqhwIh1sxo25RYpoECxI81714Wm3Zo-kokPCh6IR4SWNyijnWyrGsGbuvqcfFox59RnPbyVrCvpG1494srxEh1A9oF6ZBbR4-SrGb6Fs9ZSYUNwVFuW8k3XJrFrR2Df34TKucX4/s1600/DSC_9114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtVhzYqhwIh1sxo25RYpoECxI81714Wm3Zo-kokPCh6IR4SWNyijnWyrGsGbuvqcfFox59RnPbyVrCvpG1494srxEh1A9oF6ZBbR4-SrGb6Fs9ZSYUNwVFuW8k3XJrFrR2Df34TKucX4/s1600/DSC_9114.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He looks a bit overwhelmed by the job in hand....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIaG-r2_ry4u7JT22H0DYKJOpoXI2PW6C-Db2rpYUrKk6rgHCPCCQyQPAULJofzvGaLXxd1WEa8RFolgkeSqLgdZvB5v7m810HCCyRVQVOUg4zajZSS8nQsBvZUFDO9yXLlh_KIaMPyI/s1600/DSC_9116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIaG-r2_ry4u7JT22H0DYKJOpoXI2PW6C-Db2rpYUrKk6rgHCPCCQyQPAULJofzvGaLXxd1WEa8RFolgkeSqLgdZvB5v7m810HCCyRVQVOUg4zajZSS8nQsBvZUFDO9yXLlh_KIaMPyI/s1600/DSC_9116.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg129DnC8MEJvWhxQLZ-P-Yhd-LPsdqmGJcR3yyYvzo17T7eDDGQf938vrk-qDN-RBO1Mqr0umgs7mlWpp4v5v4zfnPMY1KW1XM1M4exDMNfJLIg2kXZBu9Nw0__iWJscsbLYZugkGLyIQ/s1600/DSC_9126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg129DnC8MEJvWhxQLZ-P-Yhd-LPsdqmGJcR3yyYvzo17T7eDDGQf938vrk-qDN-RBO1Mqr0umgs7mlWpp4v5v4zfnPMY1KW1XM1M4exDMNfJLIg2kXZBu9Nw0__iWJscsbLYZugkGLyIQ/s1600/DSC_9126.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZEqcSB8O8YFNMWaYS6318boQbKDGpF4XcMMAwf4_Oq_ZyUU7cyNhbdtxiTXHJK68SAbcT6MEmGufjRdpd63SKvOjKpegeFiEqCMCVEvBKmwWq70DbkF_5ZzUrJqyDHBdf_iJBZ2-noA/s1600/DSC_9136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ZEqcSB8O8YFNMWaYS6318boQbKDGpF4XcMMAwf4_Oq_ZyUU7cyNhbdtxiTXHJK68SAbcT6MEmGufjRdpd63SKvOjKpegeFiEqCMCVEvBKmwWq70DbkF_5ZzUrJqyDHBdf_iJBZ2-noA/s1600/DSC_9136.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You're going to cram HOW MUCH into that tumble drier?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2ceYGTijZ2v_oiwk3AZ3XMi0vP-VH55bjhD-fv4tep3LqSSsz4xfx7s5T2UBCYVrNVKSnmYm5KJUjsvuuA6pVxZ7SQmclf7_vqiiguZUGDkI8RzxCXsGJ8BHEn7K63bnAeQqf0n232g/s1600/DSC_9158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2ceYGTijZ2v_oiwk3AZ3XMi0vP-VH55bjhD-fv4tep3LqSSsz4xfx7s5T2UBCYVrNVKSnmYm5KJUjsvuuA6pVxZ7SQmclf7_vqiiguZUGDkI8RzxCXsGJ8BHEn7K63bnAeQqf0n232g/s1600/DSC_9158.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWc1_d7Rb2yFndnaAKjBqX7RCLqNwaZhFkJmgi2tYhzbpd0USmDfZZblz-rRAksqXT-Da4RyzDiyYcN5yTfgZ_M7SGIxOE8-tfev_abMer6qFd7pNa6dxZhhBeA4drpFfdVFFa5XHyCc/s1600/DSC_9177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwWc1_d7Rb2yFndnaAKjBqX7RCLqNwaZhFkJmgi2tYhzbpd0USmDfZZblz-rRAksqXT-Da4RyzDiyYcN5yTfgZ_M7SGIxOE8-tfev_abMer6qFd7pNa6dxZhhBeA4drpFfdVFFa5XHyCc/s1600/DSC_9177.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbb9m7SIwMHLfb4WJB-f7XgAKPFzhAVHKTTckDFwoBQE_GYiuiko5GpjONl_-vMg-YlBrIRYl_4vu_0tWvAK2-hzt84YZkoO-3dZ3DF_L1hLiPvPzotcd8RHTBggfrxKE962pdee7wVg/s1600/DSC_9239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBbb9m7SIwMHLfb4WJB-f7XgAKPFzhAVHKTTckDFwoBQE_GYiuiko5GpjONl_-vMg-YlBrIRYl_4vu_0tWvAK2-hzt84YZkoO-3dZ3DF_L1hLiPvPzotcd8RHTBggfrxKE962pdee7wVg/s1600/DSC_9239.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ironing with only a single bulb for light.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eJiKCoupcd4AknoDtcLEQdM_YbcjNNRRkVbMAPsZrSwcj1u6du-4SDrL3k8N6lFCJwdbGphvq-NaiBoYYNKpn56HzWQXzWzQ9eV6Y9fYF3OtJ7rX4VkncVpdO60xtNXC1-a4EM77N-s/s1600/DSC_9254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eJiKCoupcd4AknoDtcLEQdM_YbcjNNRRkVbMAPsZrSwcj1u6du-4SDrL3k8N6lFCJwdbGphvq-NaiBoYYNKpn56HzWQXzWzQ9eV6Y9fYF3OtJ7rX4VkncVpdO60xtNXC1-a4EM77N-s/s1600/DSC_9254.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chai Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmM7PFO8WlKSNnY2CnR5lTRGbAJ2mmlRfzNjupVA9aH9vGKqQb3JkzfmiTAc7HPEePUtGcI2EsyoVB3DUUDJn5CX757z2eHhHAY2Jj9pUCTU6hm8eBoZ4CdK9J0I-GqcvT_cWMErzeoo/s1600/DSC_9256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmM7PFO8WlKSNnY2CnR5lTRGbAJ2mmlRfzNjupVA9aH9vGKqQb3JkzfmiTAc7HPEePUtGcI2EsyoVB3DUUDJn5CX757z2eHhHAY2Jj9pUCTU6hm8eBoZ4CdK9J0I-GqcvT_cWMErzeoo/s1600/DSC_9256.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this photo - a guy wearing an Ipod presses clothing with a Victorian iron fuelled by coal!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtodREUEyry3jksvHIdvnYT4ptsuftVKvjNUXXc8iknrHGs9bRKnr52uf8dhvOgNn9GVngcMusxO4KYvPH8Xtgv3Ja0lSwRrjVOWkCRoOm2uQhhGit6fEXfJeTelDXudeGZhjjaXcf7ec/s1600/DSC_9281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtodREUEyry3jksvHIdvnYT4ptsuftVKvjNUXXc8iknrHGs9bRKnr52uf8dhvOgNn9GVngcMusxO4KYvPH8Xtgv3Ja0lSwRrjVOWkCRoOm2uQhhGit6fEXfJeTelDXudeGZhjjaXcf7ec/s1600/DSC_9281.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurJXk5Rs5V6K-vazkKqnjmftESkJFKaQmFqKQeVwvAt08pr-u2ot32cUZtjOfQxvaId_rukouUJB_bMGFNVrwnC3uFij_eWIBVPchYmN_6gKKl56WB5crPNhMlQImnzKYpZIG4kOJ9sg/s1600/DSC_9285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurJXk5Rs5V6K-vazkKqnjmftESkJFKaQmFqKQeVwvAt08pr-u2ot32cUZtjOfQxvaId_rukouUJB_bMGFNVrwnC3uFij_eWIBVPchYmN_6gKKl56WB5crPNhMlQImnzKYpZIG4kOJ9sg/s1600/DSC_9285.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV11D4reIv6ZnEcsEs8HQROprQIYFg32nE0pppsjVErSXO7-QG8-kpuhuX4t_ggHVpIOzTcJS-R1uOEY9eXE_nOv8quTuMf2hPvOF6r7P6EJ22IcJ1jpEAOZ1XahNGeHGjDqmPU6V3Faw/s1600/DSC_9296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV11D4reIv6ZnEcsEs8HQROprQIYFg32nE0pppsjVErSXO7-QG8-kpuhuX4t_ggHVpIOzTcJS-R1uOEY9eXE_nOv8quTuMf2hPvOF6r7P6EJ22IcJ1jpEAOZ1XahNGeHGjDqmPU6V3Faw/s1600/DSC_9296.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Folding laundered items neatly...this guy has the best job (he gets to keep his shirt on)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOO5d9AGDXFP45MupxZDbM30t8tI-6rPzwxQ0nnrXhg0prokrqSLevx49hHmgCNwhf8H2CUGw6CTzYs2YZTyZr2xCtrHr9I8_rf-g2zxtHe6Qm3SzKjs25C1RA17vB0Jua4u-GlszYj0/s1600/DSC_9310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOO5d9AGDXFP45MupxZDbM30t8tI-6rPzwxQ0nnrXhg0prokrqSLevx49hHmgCNwhf8H2CUGw6CTzYs2YZTyZr2xCtrHr9I8_rf-g2zxtHe6Qm3SzKjs25C1RA17vB0Jua4u-GlszYj0/s1600/DSC_9310.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way in - this is the electrics cupboard for Dhobi Ghat. Pretty frightening!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p_o9S_QuFVisVzfP9Ozfkt_Ngl0xbzc_IDdUWp5boZmDLldKDH3gkmATfSHUiVCLK3hyphenhyphenpG1F_rw9lKQZGG9xr9VaL0e0rQqeW1xB2rCzRE_OOY5XGDHhBkcaM4BI4uAqezFPrbN8Yog/s1600/DSC_9313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p_o9S_QuFVisVzfP9Ozfkt_Ngl0xbzc_IDdUWp5boZmDLldKDH3gkmATfSHUiVCLK3hyphenhyphenpG1F_rw9lKQZGG9xr9VaL0e0rQqeW1xB2rCzRE_OOY5XGDHhBkcaM4BI4uAqezFPrbN8Yog/s1600/DSC_9313.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrJ_hRcgwKLVMRv3xN-h2PiXelJ3G35OIm20eTXp-rJsIkMZDwtRzMZigs4NhBsIX7uf-MUhqD6WM_1wmUoNteWanmRjWJvU_IuKQaB2Fg283siqSKgLodvXr0GLC60ZNNYwvYF8ohQs/s1600/DSC_9314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrJ_hRcgwKLVMRv3xN-h2PiXelJ3G35OIm20eTXp-rJsIkMZDwtRzMZigs4NhBsIX7uf-MUhqD6WM_1wmUoNteWanmRjWJvU_IuKQaB2Fg283siqSKgLodvXr0GLC60ZNNYwvYF8ohQs/s1600/DSC_9314.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the shop where the Dhobis buy their soap. Looks like it could do with a bit of a wash itself!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaJVJfUkBPWmrxr1rKbfbd6xpUzR0Y_O53Yvrbo8omCXeVniJQ-7gaRkuMHpvUO_ZqY1DoliadgEtnwDsM0JJSAVEaiBtZ7PYxbj9TqU8Do8_Aqhce4LUXOjK1rZQuH4aGkL5LseGil4/s1600/DSC_9346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaJVJfUkBPWmrxr1rKbfbd6xpUzR0Y_O53Yvrbo8omCXeVniJQ-7gaRkuMHpvUO_ZqY1DoliadgEtnwDsM0JJSAVEaiBtZ7PYxbj9TqU8Do8_Aqhce4LUXOjK1rZQuH4aGkL5LseGil4/s1600/DSC_9346.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKuSH_w5zE2MtuqXckIWtDLlN5q1DCDNhpnRsNIaTPt2rcV-IJCju-P32lQh_ErXGks_3h4uo9LXV6GgE8go2J8f7v0x5LOck2OwHjjXKQUQNHT4YnFievLxd_n0TQ-q1LYnGS3gTAZE/s1600/DSC_9350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKuSH_w5zE2MtuqXckIWtDLlN5q1DCDNhpnRsNIaTPt2rcV-IJCju-P32lQh_ErXGks_3h4uo9LXV6GgE8go2J8f7v0x5LOck2OwHjjXKQUQNHT4YnFievLxd_n0TQ-q1LYnGS3gTAZE/s1600/DSC_9350.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First sign of modernity - huge tumble driers<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>How we got in to the world's largest open air laundry</i><div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Dhobi Ghat is now a favourite with tourists visiting Mumbai - in fact it is amongst the top 10 attractions in the city. You can easily stand on the bridge next to Mahalaxmi Station and take panoramic photos of the laundry (the first photo is taken from the bridge), but be prepared to be hassled by hawkers selling sequinned bags. You will also see the odd coach load of westerners standing there on the bridge. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The workers in Dhobi Ghat have latched on to the fact that it is possible to make a tidy sum out of foreigners. So if you go down the stairs and try to walk into the laundry area itself, you will be stopped by a sort of 'agent' (ours was a teenager wearing swanky jeans and sunglasses) who will charge you 300 Rs each to be taken in. And I can't blame these guys - how would you like it if someone was peering at you and taking photos whilst you were working?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For our excursion, I added on an extra layer of protection by engaging a <a href="http://realitytoursandtravel.com/slum-tours.html" target="_blank"><b>Reality Tours & Travel</b></a> guide - he took us in, did the entry negotiations and accompanied us around the ghats whilst we took detailed photos. Please contact them directly via their <a href="http://realitytoursandtravel.com/slum-tours.html" target="_blank">website</a> for pricing and availability of tour guides. A group of up to six people is feasible this way. And if you do go - please show these hardworking men some respect whilst they are working, by not getting in their way and being aware of porters rushing in and out with heavy loads.</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-82064481664149702012014-03-07T15:39:00.000+05:302014-03-07T15:57:45.671+05:30Gourmet Saturday : Ping Pong (BKC)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am writing this a little ahead of Saturday in case anyone requires dining-out inspiration for this weekend. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We tried out Ping Pong at Bandra Kurla Complex a few weekends ago, when Mr Jules and I attended an interiors show at the temporary exhibition centre there (Mr Jules rather begrudgingly obviously). Buoyed up by the triumphant purchase of some lovely cutlery (by the people who supply Good Earth but at almost a third of the price!), we decided to celebrate by lunching on Dim Sum across the road at Ping Pong. Well it is very hard to find decent cutlery in Mumbai you know!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFJ7MC1cN_V5G_rQC-DpdibZF6lPHMpgqjUryWK8o2cqzyPVphLvLIj3lfWuH_vSVvJev8c5L4i17GLYIN6ukH5-nviHorQIFzDD5pEQd9I_89a1cEsN_moXmpNKmC_Yg8IQBn8NUQmI/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFJ7MC1cN_V5G_rQC-DpdibZF6lPHMpgqjUryWK8o2cqzyPVphLvLIj3lfWuH_vSVvJev8c5L4i17GLYIN6ukH5-nviHorQIFzDD5pEQd9I_89a1cEsN_moXmpNKmC_Yg8IQBn8NUQmI/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+01.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chic, if standard Ping Pong interior - reminiscent of Chinese Tea Houses.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ping Pong is actually a Chinese restaurant franchise originating in the UK. And just like other popular foreign eateries such as Le Pain de Quotidien, Yauatcha and Pizza Express, they have chosen corporate BKC as the best location to enter the Mumbai (nay, Indian) restaurant scene. BKC is well suited to the modern chain - with its wide pavements, glassy buildings and suited workers. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back home in the UK, Ping Pong was always a cheap, convenient place to go for lunch or after work with mates - where you could share simple, healthy dishes with a glass of wine and not worry about the bill. Here, the chain is almost elevated to the 'luxury' category - mostly because the prices are comparable with that of London. (Upon checking the prices, I found that most dishes to be only 25 - to 75 pence cheaper than their UK counterparts - but with service taxes and VAT that saving is negated). Bearing this in mind, I was keen to see if the place would come up to scratch.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitN_XBODN37Jk67g5K-Q9yiPY154mPPU3DwOcwd93fmn6tfiDzXl_4Ioq970i0806HlM_KxbLbUGAm_yAURi33GVWD-1R3kyayx9rzjuhYXIGe8RdBjrQQtFayMjcwYgYNTyJNhr8_Hrs/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitN_XBODN37Jk67g5K-Q9yiPY154mPPU3DwOcwd93fmn6tfiDzXl_4Ioq970i0806HlM_KxbLbUGAm_yAURi33GVWD-1R3kyayx9rzjuhYXIGe8RdBjrQQtFayMjcwYgYNTyJNhr8_Hrs/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+07.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Delicious Crispy Asparagus - cooked al-dente and to perfection (Rs 225)<br />
Scrummy Crispy Prawn Balls (Rs 375)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With a glass of Sula Sauvignon Blanc (Rs 350), our Saturday lunch at Ping Pong did indeed make for an enjoyable diversion - it is definitely worth a detour if you are in the Bandra area. The food was pretty well cooked with only a couple of criticisms: the steamed dumpling casings were perhaps a little overcooked and therefore a bit soggy; and the 'braised pork belly in five spice sauce' was not available. Never mess with me and my belly of pork...it is one of my favourite dishes and I was <i>hugely</i> disappointed not to have it! Oh, and I did find a small piece of packaging fibre in one of the dishes - but they gave us a free dessert to say sorry so I forgave them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xihZx-iP1cNsb-rqr__CRg_X-OJgnHLBq2mnfmcOoOKjclS_NAh-zM8MDHDIwwIu9r_iXrIyuMGBocPAtyKcv9gBam1PIb0G6mdsOYXU_6XznjnxR3ePPbsgEkwIGBpsEU-GGJwOsTw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1xihZx-iP1cNsb-rqr__CRg_X-OJgnHLBq2mnfmcOoOKjclS_NAh-zM8MDHDIwwIu9r_iXrIyuMGBocPAtyKcv9gBam1PIb0G6mdsOYXU_6XznjnxR3ePPbsgEkwIGBpsEU-GGJwOsTw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+11.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honk-free zone outside</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Saturday lunchtimes at Ping Pong are not busy - the place is filled with affluent office workers during the week and as yet, has not been 'discovered' by those 'Ladies Wot Lunch' (unlike, say Le Pain de Quotidien). At 1pm the place was virtually empty, although quite a few Saturday workers from the surrounding office buildings (some very poshly suited) did start to drift in from around 1.30pm. Admittedly, we had only gone there ourselves because we had noticed it from the exhibition centre across the way. <br />
<br />
To add to the Zen feeling, the road outside the restaurant is honk-free and there is an uninterrupted view of the wasteland from the window-tables - it is actually a great place to get some peace and quiet at the weekend!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here are some pics of what we consumed:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_CYdvtq-P1IwRG65G33OjeOtzP0vH3G8pr2yA7bFICAaCd8dRWEBLXTXKmZtc3dNSMNv1otpAMeunYxHofO6PTn_tbooBDIClXm-fcGXr1YAUesmkrb5dhUc0sw-Q0k4G8br7v5qxX4/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_CYdvtq-P1IwRG65G33OjeOtzP0vH3G8pr2yA7bFICAaCd8dRWEBLXTXKmZtc3dNSMNv1otpAMeunYxHofO6PTn_tbooBDIClXm-fcGXr1YAUesmkrb5dhUc0sw-Q0k4G8br7v5qxX4/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+03.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Choices are made by ticking off a checklist</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1JwegqrC0aNKwWVm8Nil16gLc7TK4mY3O_7mpiiw9vh9yynsI8oNOMwCCZM6IxaWwPJVNdz1xXvxdVJ7aubeItmgVSBypzI9nZxGb32ocOhueRefeG3uEDRAYTwFcol0QViTkOVuagM/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1JwegqrC0aNKwWVm8Nil16gLc7TK4mY3O_7mpiiw9vh9yynsI8oNOMwCCZM6IxaWwPJVNdz1xXvxdVJ7aubeItmgVSBypzI9nZxGb32ocOhueRefeG3uEDRAYTwFcol0QViTkOVuagM/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+04.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prawn crackers with chilli sauce (Rs 150)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTVjKSZ9myB-OTOyUVkGShNoE7cckSwFgfI8T7TOJM6G6AvrebGzN0p7N4kP7FkDGSHGvr_uz-EP1jryyDhl33t3kwpuJdVj1byKnh3ZKv10py82ytunt1JHHZ927VfA3eBm2DpObnxw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTVjKSZ9myB-OTOyUVkGShNoE7cckSwFgfI8T7TOJM6G6AvrebGzN0p7N4kP7FkDGSHGvr_uz-EP1jryyDhl33t3kwpuJdVj1byKnh3ZKv10py82ytunt1JHHZ927VfA3eBm2DpObnxw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+05.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of two steamed dim sum we ordered - Scallops & Shitake dumplings (Rs 350)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa7TwbQmT-w0iicpAPZ2-xXH89y6KTKtBYdONpCUAv5Ap4LUSCAKnAfGoRDEos99PMkgj7zPyhVrwg-il_5fn4kAIoW0VIz85aqCv81KxMxhBRlaj9sVdHXIZV6axW0Ya2v2Pcg0_JD4/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYa7TwbQmT-w0iicpAPZ2-xXH89y6KTKtBYdONpCUAv5Ap4LUSCAKnAfGoRDEos99PMkgj7zPyhVrwg-il_5fn4kAIoW0VIz85aqCv81KxMxhBRlaj9sVdHXIZV6axW0Ya2v2Pcg0_JD4/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+06.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To the rear - Spicy Pork steamed dumplings (Rs 350). Both had three dumplings so tough if there is four of you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0IcJUCt-3qebLUtpHAWv8zrrqUt7WhRlwSxDLqBHf5RpKeSgMV1sgZdPVlpKpAZzZVJnWH-MCo19DXbz7_7qQ0bjB8oUoFShT2F9eO7oqC5NgF79HLobvveOCt_HKBU5pAgQD6MxWmY/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0IcJUCt-3qebLUtpHAWv8zrrqUt7WhRlwSxDLqBHf5RpKeSgMV1sgZdPVlpKpAZzZVJnWH-MCo19DXbz7_7qQ0bjB8oUoFShT2F9eO7oqC5NgF79HLobvveOCt_HKBU5pAgQD6MxWmY/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+08.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Rice Pot - makes a nice, healthy filler for Rs 350</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoV9AzbPEc34eglCR9VlJQRqOn62SDfSwN1NdLaC_4dS8Fxnr1YUAVLrKlF2wTUcpEd-yFQmpwLV84moPtfHxxqlp4zQlFxcjukMvfdc-7P6cuT2vK48JaLKdQ06btxROQ2ZblkCX-wE/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoV9AzbPEc34eglCR9VlJQRqOn62SDfSwN1NdLaC_4dS8Fxnr1YUAVLrKlF2wTUcpEd-yFQmpwLV84moPtfHxxqlp4zQlFxcjukMvfdc-7P6cuT2vK48JaLKdQ06btxROQ2ZblkCX-wE/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+09.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I actually found a fibre in my prawn ball - from packaging I think. I pointed it out to the staff and they later gave us this dessert without us asking for one. Nice touch I thought. Molten chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP37yw5cAJHatL6Zpm0WED1KGR1ROwjTsYHbumczYPbw3SkSeE-R-7idCFusidKEY_-lp3HCe3v65sObraJlH_ccTqG8PONb780jz3SmVRiVw79hjM0kE6EmkKDlehFMSoaUYwxBremCw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP37yw5cAJHatL6Zpm0WED1KGR1ROwjTsYHbumczYPbw3SkSeE-R-7idCFusidKEY_-lp3HCe3v65sObraJlH_ccTqG8PONb780jz3SmVRiVw79hjM0kE6EmkKDlehFMSoaUYwxBremCw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+10.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ceiling - wonder what it says?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuVQMJzuNQ5xKtrtZvMBoVZp8EivyxdB8DtR2b73mNn3YCrhXAAQLnZO8vFbUKv8T1tlBsbiRy0-1iiQyeUJqMz9nBeN1kc2sG-DyEy77TZHaxdT1iCQ5hFSpw6QA4wDqDcEhaakzw08/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuVQMJzuNQ5xKtrtZvMBoVZp8EivyxdB8DtR2b73mNn3YCrhXAAQLnZO8vFbUKv8T1tlBsbiRy0-1iiQyeUJqMz9nBeN1kc2sG-DyEy77TZHaxdT1iCQ5hFSpw6QA4wDqDcEhaakzw08/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+12.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef at work...stacks of dim sum baskets behind him</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKU-Q8BCCo_1OEwJg_YfvzKmutgCuRZwmKM7mI99_jQCjdjP0zM9JXTplJNKw1j2pzEDErYG4kpblIv-XIpeyCNIFq3j6QE6B3pAv_mRXiHNxBQJiY1KjCiu517t8bxi0OXCQmpsHaZc/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKU-Q8BCCo_1OEwJg_YfvzKmutgCuRZwmKM7mI99_jQCjdjP0zM9JXTplJNKw1j2pzEDErYG4kpblIv-XIpeyCNIFq3j6QE6B3pAv_mRXiHNxBQJiY1KjCiu517t8bxi0OXCQmpsHaZc/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+13.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS2i1OiI4MKtunpkxAJXsdPRhcCVUTC6phg5Gujt85FrWmETzwBHhj8Yt2M9xXaWstvZKB-cACmJiBLAg6SzS9aJ-kYxpSytSAXZDRO6H_C8qSzbIh7utDVVIB01CmPB1_oGuI91EDhU/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS2i1OiI4MKtunpkxAJXsdPRhcCVUTC6phg5Gujt85FrWmETzwBHhj8Yt2M9xXaWstvZKB-cACmJiBLAg6SzS9aJ-kYxpSytSAXZDRO6H_C8qSzbIh7utDVVIB01CmPB1_oGuI91EDhU/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+14.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDW2dGhqmf39ZQ2aregKBAlq08990Aopcy9JVzFpkNNtQjllQcuNDeuP6rKugSxm72mJmDdROc2QlDA5UcY3rF9meqjvtHkobNA1JuYRHN1-bV1alFgA5gHcHdNFsXHZK2OS18sw_Daw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDW2dGhqmf39ZQ2aregKBAlq08990Aopcy9JVzFpkNNtQjllQcuNDeuP6rKugSxm72mJmDdROc2QlDA5UcY3rF9meqjvtHkobNA1JuYRHN1-bV1alFgA5gHcHdNFsXHZK2OS18sw_Daw/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+15.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The glorious pavements of BKC.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37QobFnL1aEBY2rltvQJPx6E2jJ8bL0oew7jCxmtRWI7Q59W3jz5HulAtcd9F57kXmfKh-7AXX9Qcp3wS6TYcrPs2Dp-lcohdU94W_GqtDvgT7q2JFrYThBpyfDhmhqlaQ-HKTKuRBEU/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37QobFnL1aEBY2rltvQJPx6E2jJ8bL0oew7jCxmtRWI7Q59W3jz5HulAtcd9F57kXmfKh-7AXX9Qcp3wS6TYcrPs2Dp-lcohdU94W_GqtDvgT7q2JFrYThBpyfDhmhqlaQ-HKTKuRBEU/s1600/Ping-Pong-BKC-Mumbai+-+02.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great afterwork enticement - 2-for-1 cocktails Monday to Friday 4-8pm and 11pm to close.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">PING PONG</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">First International Financial Centre Bldg. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plot C-54 & C-55 G block, BKC, Bandra (East),</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mumbai – 400 051</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">tel: +91 22 67413333</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mon – Sun 12.00pm - 12.30am</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #3cb6ea; font-family: st_ryde_regularregular, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #3cb6ea; font-family: st_ryde_regularregular, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 5px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.pingpongdimsum.in/">www.pingpongdimsum.in</a> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-35071787099583191482014-03-05T20:18:00.000+05:302014-03-05T20:18:05.152+05:30Ubiquitous India: No 4 - Truck Hoppers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>This blog is dedicated to the P-Js of Powai.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All over India, on every road, from the busiest expressways to the narrowest country lane - there are people hitching rides or being transported on the back of commercial vehicles. They are lone riders, family groups, gangs of workers - or travelling companions who are complete strangers to each other. I call them 'truck hoppers'.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiw-50EiQbs_ho4ck-TTl6Z15Onl6cNa01hY2iyolcgOuH_Eto_7vAYkCjlg99XCsOmHHVYzqDN_zp88sUPTMGYESPqonlVyYE4Ot3R9Gto-o-j3Jexadt_TTNVYYU2VZb6d7T7LVnHQc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiw-50EiQbs_ho4ck-TTl6Z15Onl6cNa01hY2iyolcgOuH_Eto_7vAYkCjlg99XCsOmHHVYzqDN_zp88sUPTMGYESPqonlVyYE4Ot3R9Gto-o-j3Jexadt_TTNVYYU2VZb6d7T7LVnHQc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+17.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Chance for a catch-up and perhaps even a debate?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes these hitchers stand without the ability to sit; others make seating out of their cargo - whether it be rice sacks, rubbish or an actual chair (as below). Often you will these impromptu passengers fast asleep amongst a load of detritus. Never is there a seatbelt or a strap, and never do they feel the need to close the doors (if there are any) - better to feel the wind in your hair.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR7xCtLzGeFIMdT-8ZyEK0CoHy3B6ENJ2vbEoOApJ9HYPq5kpohCGGOyeUf2oHnHo5Uj4XloFb5DJh_L8R2gXiBXu8qClRn_-Mi51RDtVmD8dBoVLyIoxkv0sFusL9g3xL_i5ghOmx3k/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR7xCtLzGeFIMdT-8ZyEK0CoHy3B6ENJ2vbEoOApJ9HYPq5kpohCGGOyeUf2oHnHo5Uj4XloFb5DJh_L8R2gXiBXu8qClRn_-Mi51RDtVmD8dBoVLyIoxkv0sFusL9g3xL_i5ghOmx3k/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+07.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seating provided!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love the way that cargo transport doubles up as a commuter transport. I also love the way that groups of men laugh and play about in the backs of trucks. The most amusing aspect, are those who are willing to squeeze themselves into any available space, just to get where they want to go (or have to go).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PgQzeBjEvH4dIKhJo0y7DPu5podtSx9bnkopnC6mEgarMMNby5l-qpcbVLMJJaWsgmgzVOZB8PwS-3OBvdYDLyybr5zqbIxUKpykPpsZuN9PlayuJN_T2DeTPldPxbFRFEe7BNa4K70/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PgQzeBjEvH4dIKhJo0y7DPu5podtSx9bnkopnC6mEgarMMNby5l-qpcbVLMJJaWsgmgzVOZB8PwS-3OBvdYDLyybr5zqbIxUKpykPpsZuN9PlayuJN_T2DeTPldPxbFRFEe7BNa4K70/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+16.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmm...looks really comfortable!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course, the humour masks something more sinister. People travelling by this method are generally taking their lives into their own hands (as is so often typical in India's Health & Safety free zone). I hate to think what would happen if any of these vehicles had to brake suddenly, or if one was involved with a crash. I recently heard a terribly sad story from a friend: One morning, upon hearing a loud crash outside, my friend's husband went to investigate. He saw a van carrying marble slabs on the road outside their apartment block. He asked someone what was going on. It transpired that the van had just picked up two workers from the next door building and these men had climbed into the back of the van. As soon as it had accelerated away, the two huge marble slabs (which had not been strapped on) - fell sideways on top of the two men, killing one and injuring the other. My poor friend's husband saw the bodies poking out from under the marble. What a waste of a life because of such a negligent disregard for safety. So even though I approach this subject in rather a tongue-in-cheek kind of way - I actually find these sightings quite stressful.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In my two years in India, I have recorded these shotgun passengers in their hundreds. Here is a small selection for your delectation (some photographs are fuzzy as I have shot them through a car window):</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVLCaojxC5cJtILrmUf5XCh7QMZnDOVL2_OKnVyW1oI9_cQNfDWxixAtWMcnd-C2VDV7pUoMpI5McDlz9ZvLXknTMsb5mRrAtuQZgy7CD2kqzvXvEmk9zg9iYLt6cg1xp3ZnfboCEdTw/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVLCaojxC5cJtILrmUf5XCh7QMZnDOVL2_OKnVyW1oI9_cQNfDWxixAtWMcnd-C2VDV7pUoMpI5McDlz9ZvLXknTMsb5mRrAtuQZgy7CD2kqzvXvEmk9zg9iYLt6cg1xp3ZnfboCEdTw/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+02.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Govindas on Human Pyramid day - traverse the city by truck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumqjxI_J10Fb7Q5J3KRGFo9DYjPjcB6XgOR0CRJWze4O4SInBLXz60kKJeakMHDcareKRJTzyr8OJl9_fRTRFe2i8o3USq19ts7FkDkVQmGNCXXWHBwhPI_DRrSTHsr2c2ZFl3SVa6Bc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumqjxI_J10Fb7Q5J3KRGFo9DYjPjcB6XgOR0CRJWze4O4SInBLXz60kKJeakMHDcareKRJTzyr8OJl9_fRTRFe2i8o3USq19ts7FkDkVQmGNCXXWHBwhPI_DRrSTHsr2c2ZFl3SVa6Bc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+03.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next few photos - Gods are not precluded from travelling by truck!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Inc7oHz-lFd4ZcFqhzwliEzyY2fld-UHepUGcb8b7oMIyygDJ6VEPLIKsf8MvOne2kI6bJdMbRBdnr8LN5wYpwQT4jYOmJUQtVgABnqYVWGGevJk_jEHempagDLv0HCjZIbVdc9TQoQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Inc7oHz-lFd4ZcFqhzwliEzyY2fld-UHepUGcb8b7oMIyygDJ6VEPLIKsf8MvOne2kI6bJdMbRBdnr8LN5wYpwQT4jYOmJUQtVgABnqYVWGGevJk_jEHempagDLv0HCjZIbVdc9TQoQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+04.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDe2LJO_ikkc_zZuuNH5rQdxeZtAVXpkCCEunA5XF_7x05E_QuSa7DRz5vZ2UDRjKV_oVNnQGfGsI5oaj9f1RIQvrctT5zhCY2G4z9Gaw_Rj7xnZyXXzn5MFIlnJjLA_ApuTwXr8VQyiQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDe2LJO_ikkc_zZuuNH5rQdxeZtAVXpkCCEunA5XF_7x05E_QuSa7DRz5vZ2UDRjKV_oVNnQGfGsI5oaj9f1RIQvrctT5zhCY2G4z9Gaw_Rj7xnZyXXzn5MFIlnJjLA_ApuTwXr8VQyiQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+12.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TBZy_zi1V4bArjDpuqvhGkMvCJKGYqFf2e-qReJiw_vvbVJo-8bVXj48h7fulDxRrI3Xczlm5_XGn5qt78ec67efofmNUuPEMVdX2Hz2zxgo_L9Ylm5vjzrEg8JTHhLk0xw0eJjcLBE/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TBZy_zi1V4bArjDpuqvhGkMvCJKGYqFf2e-qReJiw_vvbVJo-8bVXj48h7fulDxRrI3Xczlm5_XGn5qt78ec67efofmNUuPEMVdX2Hz2zxgo_L9Ylm5vjzrEg8JTHhLk0xw0eJjcLBE/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+05.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVx8hX0km_qzcWecYsB-00h094jP0kyFM3sZ12FeW-w80NK3dSf9UtDCQb_C3-pA8H3itwQAvHoPb4WkvIZ188lTQtYtYZC9c0sTJrusyCdDwql6-NMUmMvhptvUe9wjp-pm2iO_syoaI/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVx8hX0km_qzcWecYsB-00h094jP0kyFM3sZ12FeW-w80NK3dSf9UtDCQb_C3-pA8H3itwQAvHoPb4WkvIZ188lTQtYtYZC9c0sTJrusyCdDwql6-NMUmMvhptvUe9wjp-pm2iO_syoaI/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+06.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This truck carries a buffet...and a chef</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_G1c9HhDMWbkRuC00IT4pN2u11OeS9D_TfyA_RxfzspRj2tKZ0-fv7TNLgcqTIEkKCrguE3jR9Q6hBE9CKsrGbu2O3pA-rd27Y-hy5KJgToq3hDE8u0cVRfjzwKPtR7S1QzBVGdXnyd4/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_G1c9HhDMWbkRuC00IT4pN2u11OeS9D_TfyA_RxfzspRj2tKZ0-fv7TNLgcqTIEkKCrguE3jR9Q6hBE9CKsrGbu2O3pA-rd27Y-hy5KJgToq3hDE8u0cVRfjzwKPtR7S1QzBVGdXnyd4/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+08.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little cow went to market....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJ0lBTlA6FGjxGFYUId9OH6d_f__Mb4hXjwihDmPyJszlWjojcNCuE7vG3iQOg4oXIv6sXECxxcWKFQ534IO2t6bcLGe6K0HdQtqUdXOdDC9fnV5DVLJ4zwSctwDliQ4J5FdiStT-yl8/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJ0lBTlA6FGjxGFYUId9OH6d_f__Mb4hXjwihDmPyJszlWjojcNCuE7vG3iQOg4oXIv6sXECxxcWKFQ534IO2t6bcLGe6K0HdQtqUdXOdDC9fnV5DVLJ4zwSctwDliQ4J5FdiStT-yl8/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+09.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look closely....very closely!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF62xaFA1tx7bGeNvDksxnNk6VaemGOrMc-S0e3Ue9HUGq1vedMVglXSBhXM0OrdTLgyGaGhNh8ibxZo0TaBKZi7jzih3Ul_OB7iAeMy5GCz51q0PXRFY4c-RdjzVbtG1NzSruuYQDUUQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF62xaFA1tx7bGeNvDksxnNk6VaemGOrMc-S0e3Ue9HUGq1vedMVglXSBhXM0OrdTLgyGaGhNh8ibxZo0TaBKZi7jzih3Ul_OB7iAeMy5GCz51q0PXRFY4c-RdjzVbtG1NzSruuYQDUUQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+10.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm396ch5RQscFeQ8bb3dAIwik8N9y4NW21MlG8Y9QcV22z0ECjTIN2NYEeN-GyCSTW8YIqj2lWBXnnSRCLV5mr5BtLFeofDV85-tNQxajqEMfrQceVPqYaodALgmdKJ51YZ33oZ_xwJb4/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm396ch5RQscFeQ8bb3dAIwik8N9y4NW21MlG8Y9QcV22z0ECjTIN2NYEeN-GyCSTW8YIqj2lWBXnnSRCLV5mr5BtLFeofDV85-tNQxajqEMfrQceVPqYaodALgmdKJ51YZ33oZ_xwJb4/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+11.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the guy asleep with his head on the other guy's lap?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiN4of6uMNRQXPvXKqvLay83d_QFIe2H5R1gNHJGqNf3mQjhoDcMdNtKSiV_DYF6QDESqNJbfeOz4kCGRXhRC596cxru2QN2Lv30FVadSrfVCYM40GJkS4tuDCt__2LD30fiw14oMar8/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiN4of6uMNRQXPvXKqvLay83d_QFIe2H5R1gNHJGqNf3mQjhoDcMdNtKSiV_DYF6QDESqNJbfeOz4kCGRXhRC596cxru2QN2Lv30FVadSrfVCYM40GJkS4tuDCt__2LD30fiw14oMar8/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+13.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do not step over the threshold!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLX6Y5nWdACbpRX6WIcpk-pDI-DE7NzJwSt7pYIbwDKFPj954nNXIkPr1jVQawfLhnC8ELsMNaDqWGYnEJg8tojyZycHq9NyyaEiwCDJWChPvR24EFGTOs45UcSsqQSC-UbsZya2pEHo/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLX6Y5nWdACbpRX6WIcpk-pDI-DE7NzJwSt7pYIbwDKFPj954nNXIkPr1jVQawfLhnC8ELsMNaDqWGYnEJg8tojyZycHq9NyyaEiwCDJWChPvR24EFGTOs45UcSsqQSC-UbsZya2pEHo/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+01.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is he holding the door to stop it falling off or to stop himself falling out?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQp3fxjxcMlz0Zt3L-5iapUZTXHyyKda4z_nGBo5oumAoPVI89PATfWbO1EDmD3thEaeciMsdZTCLKcjMyiAovl3_PetBZtaEIlOT0-ij0dZo5Ibl-_pVFLfjCL93VxMBQw-ajuWCmdc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyQp3fxjxcMlz0Zt3L-5iapUZTXHyyKda4z_nGBo5oumAoPVI89PATfWbO1EDmD3thEaeciMsdZTCLKcjMyiAovl3_PetBZtaEIlOT0-ij0dZo5Ibl-_pVFLfjCL93VxMBQw-ajuWCmdc/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+14.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Milkman</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhridhLCV6QWJ5NDLXHgON0YondW762RfSDHUV5I5lozK6TvQ-15lRU1eZ_IpBp_fLU7sgqOf4o-mNqj8YlFGs7Z-Tuh_deXCoWdWimL8MrVq0ZvOqx-ykCJa9fGWiF-oU_so39-oL_x0s/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhridhLCV6QWJ5NDLXHgON0YondW762RfSDHUV5I5lozK6TvQ-15lRU1eZ_IpBp_fLU7sgqOf4o-mNqj8YlFGs7Z-Tuh_deXCoWdWimL8MrVq0ZvOqx-ykCJa9fGWiF-oU_so39-oL_x0s/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+15.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Children welcome</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtDgRuktOs9ICWx-aEvh4r5c9iOSNeGwtDhGSqpJUsA7qqL-t81dzqmmFdIYVft8S_Tx9m-XLpxBYjAb03vbKqLQjp0C78UXYZCtVeGYBXafnZR0n6KP3dB24m0ssWb-mfZ_MIn9V_Dk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtDgRuktOs9ICWx-aEvh4r5c9iOSNeGwtDhGSqpJUsA7qqL-t81dzqmmFdIYVft8S_Tx9m-XLpxBYjAb03vbKqLQjp0C78UXYZCtVeGYBXafnZR0n6KP3dB24m0ssWb-mfZ_MIn9V_Dk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+18.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks like poor legroom for these guys.....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRMsLxo5YWAvd7QX8HXjdxygsv6l7weXl5rM-ot-hlTSM8x3jN6jqjStDcEpEX6-MMtEWo7yE1g_9RiSqDVDkMhGSWiR45W-YseGZFc-rjeYN4hL0646GCwJ6vn0FFNmpw8y4MIIcVfM/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRMsLxo5YWAvd7QX8HXjdxygsv6l7weXl5rM-ot-hlTSM8x3jN6jqjStDcEpEX6-MMtEWo7yE1g_9RiSqDVDkMhGSWiR45W-YseGZFc-rjeYN4hL0646GCwJ6vn0FFNmpw8y4MIIcVfM/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+19.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHqn1W-CDh0M70zczIsD2STU8JlJdvruD_T6f2sssRxE7di3V9LeYD2B6xjUcr6YUmdViiHPZQZTKlHthcAQmHD0DcNRzZJwx3ybWjA1vk58BlnUVu0Xhe8qRtVTGQmwUu4qi7RNE-iw/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHqn1W-CDh0M70zczIsD2STU8JlJdvruD_T6f2sssRxE7di3V9LeYD2B6xjUcr6YUmdViiHPZQZTKlHthcAQmHD0DcNRzZJwx3ybWjA1vk58BlnUVu0Xhe8qRtVTGQmwUu4qi7RNE-iw/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+20.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I dread to think what these guys are actually sitting on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0h39zTZv7lqfiQgn3DJjb2TPvmr0ptnEJ4s7EHi5tc-AiD4esTXRmGBP2mEMh7IetBvDVkhbHFjurvyK4IrLAylU5dkiYPYpV8UFB9N10BP-cjbvMyIS4paxK2sgvxFecark90ls1lk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0h39zTZv7lqfiQgn3DJjb2TPvmr0ptnEJ4s7EHi5tc-AiD4esTXRmGBP2mEMh7IetBvDVkhbHFjurvyK4IrLAylU5dkiYPYpV8UFB9N10BP-cjbvMyIS4paxK2sgvxFecark90ls1lk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+21.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heads peeping out - looks like they are playing a game of cards.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsfov8Y9OSAu_NxWTeeFU0917iIiwu7FBc2WG4YeniecdHOHYX95ZdsZqeLrJBnelNay78RuCoXkdp9Nj5C9Gcy9DlzX0hmmdhoVxEA9RlHyP2X5f73a_gLyj0XhEHqch4oars62QvfQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsfov8Y9OSAu_NxWTeeFU0917iIiwu7FBc2WG4YeniecdHOHYX95ZdsZqeLrJBnelNay78RuCoXkdp9Nj5C9Gcy9DlzX0hmmdhoVxEA9RlHyP2X5f73a_gLyj0XhEHqch4oars62QvfQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+22.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Precariously perched on boxes on top of this drinks truck.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrwu5TlsvFd6r3lAvjcNSWYB8ivqG6wXIZWVe9aK9Mo3XlSt0yZoymNML5qY1XKSnZcP7M-cYWsw4fOuz6SxogsxXh4wPNVDeYH5oM7uy3aCsvKdkSmpg7xe7JuaYyjC0TGAKOx6HuUQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrwu5TlsvFd6r3lAvjcNSWYB8ivqG6wXIZWVe9aK9Mo3XlSt0yZoymNML5qY1XKSnZcP7M-cYWsw4fOuz6SxogsxXh4wPNVDeYH5oM7uy3aCsvKdkSmpg7xe7JuaYyjC0TGAKOx6HuUQ/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+23.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An attempt at holding on....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFBQBsIUYTX-P0PiS9pL7i-DXTiDxOfMT6fUSAr2oMXyqtaKf9krxRd3up_rjf05gbf89HSIEO3Tnm1WfzspYAgajZyZjog8LbExOzWkRJruAPw-qzVWXlZ4l208YGYdw0b_mNprLKMk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFBQBsIUYTX-P0PiS9pL7i-DXTiDxOfMT6fUSAr2oMXyqtaKf9krxRd3up_rjf05gbf89HSIEO3Tnm1WfzspYAgajZyZjog8LbExOzWkRJruAPw-qzVWXlZ4l208YGYdw0b_mNprLKMk/s1600/Men-in-Trucks+-+24.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This woman looks like she is preparing tonight's dinner in the back of this truck!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-13213077270517688872014-03-03T17:59:00.002+05:302014-03-03T18:26:37.680+05:30The Blackbuck Lodge - Velavadar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I was so blown away by the accommodation we stayed in at Velavadar, that I thought it deserved a post all of its own....</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On our trip to <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/03/blackbuck-national-park-velavadur.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">Velavadar National Park</a>, we were being accompanied by friends who were keen for a break from Mumbai - so upon landing at Bhavnagar airport (a mere 40 minute flight from the big smog), I was nervous about what lay ahead. It's always a bit like that when you recommend something to others, especially if you have not been there first yourself.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The drive from the airport to our accommodation was dusty, arid and frankly uninspiring - with a monotonous flat landscape, little greenery and ugly industrial vistas. Not only that, but the straight road to Velavadar - although not particularly busy - was dotted with accidents and turned-over vehicles. With a lack of seat-belts in our car and our luggage strapped precariously to the roof, I was not feeling particularly at ease. I wondered what our friends were thinking.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But that was all to change as soon as we entered through the gates of The Blackbuck Lodge, one hour later.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
WOW.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfXEgCdewy-U0LErI3sIYRTbhqtz0xmjn29F43iZ7_7nFYRMOz1IumtI8SSf_gq5v1eLEnmFb5g9PV37L-EPVOu26Vk2iFaw6T2Yq-W6t6mwtNibcHcqiHd9ZegmC7HSH0VZN6XqNCAg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfXEgCdewy-U0LErI3sIYRTbhqtz0xmjn29F43iZ7_7nFYRMOz1IumtI8SSf_gq5v1eLEnmFb5g9PV37L-EPVOu26Vk2iFaw6T2Yq-W6t6mwtNibcHcqiHd9ZegmC7HSH0VZN6XqNCAg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+46.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the pond from the reception verandah. So peaceful and calming. The resort is spread around one small lake and two watering holes to the rear- making it easy to see wildlife which is attracted to the water.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Alighting from the car, we were led into a reception area lined with coffee table books and past editions of Vogue and comfy sofas upon which to read them. We checked in without issue and drank our refreshing welcome drinks on the verandah overlooking the pond. Everything was so beautiful and so peaceful that any worries I'd had, immediately disappeared. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After this, our luggage having been taken ahead, we were accompanied up a winding path, past the restaurant building to our accommodation - one of 14 independent cottages nestling in grassy parkland. I couldn't believe my eyes as I stepped over the threshold into our cottage - every possible comfort had been taken care of - from the plump cushions on the bed and window seat, the large satellite TV, the marble floors adorned with rugs, the pencil drawings on the stone walls and the beautiful teak furniture - all giving the impression of a luxurious African safari lodge. Upon speaking to the owner later, he confirmed that he had indeed taken inspiration from his wildlife travels in Africa.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CXzFoDfurndapD8903VcHXUUSZPEvDtIRJr-uZX-zFEpxBNqKWzx9OijvtJupns7rQ2efQdBzQKD_Rq7pNwbv1Z1p8S_zTssmJsq2X7azHK8moxKR_92IrSu19yTbcV8HyONn7NJUZA/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CXzFoDfurndapD8903VcHXUUSZPEvDtIRJr-uZX-zFEpxBNqKWzx9OijvtJupns7rQ2efQdBzQKD_Rq7pNwbv1Z1p8S_zTssmJsq2X7azHK8moxKR_92IrSu19yTbcV8HyONn7NJUZA/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+09.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">African safari lodge inspired rooms. I've never slept so well!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The back door of the cottage led straight on to our very own terrace with cushioned teak chairs from which we could survey our own, slightly dried-out watering hole. You could just sit there all day, waiting for blackbuck, nilgai and birdlife to turn up for a drink. Which is what we did do a lot of the time!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The huge bathroom was something else - especially the marble lined bath the size of a swimming pool and <i>two</i> rainwater showers. One inside and one outside! All the finishes were perfect - no exposed wires, no mouldy walls, no dodgy smells. The place was spotless and five-star.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIqetXu5OCdtpuAKFtfft0fURyYb4HCT6MG5PNvk4qsdmBIXW5oKsxFIi7QRtMLqln8lR0IV51buXprfQoZEyK56xTwkvs6LjJnc_q69EL_Cebcd7U5VFTIuEtkYlIY1AiCV14XL41_70/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIqetXu5OCdtpuAKFtfft0fURyYb4HCT6MG5PNvk4qsdmBIXW5oKsxFIi7QRtMLqln8lR0IV51buXprfQoZEyK56xTwkvs6LjJnc_q69EL_Cebcd7U5VFTIuEtkYlIY1AiCV14XL41_70/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+13.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insane marble bath</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although Gujurat is a dry state, The Blackbuck Lodge has a permit to sell alcohol. It's expensive but it's there (and so nice to have a beer after a day of safari-ing). On our second evening, they had prepared a bar for us in a secluded area near the rear waterhole - with candles hanging off the trees, classical Guju music, a brazier and just the stars for company. Yes you could see the whole sky lit up with twinkling stars! Such a treat after being in a light-polluted city for so long.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The food choices were a bit limited (after all, there are only 14 rooms at the resort and you can't just walk in off the street), but it was beautifully prepared. I loved every mouthful. Each buffet lunch and dinner there were two veg choices (one dry, one in sauce), rice, dhal, and a meat dish for non-vedgers and breads. Both evenings we started off with soup and an appetiser and finish with dessert - such as cardamon scented rice pudding or the ubiquitous Gulab Jamon. Every meal time, the five of us sat indoors at a table laid with crisp white linen but you could also eat or drink at at one of the romantic, canopied tables on the terrace.<br />
<br />
At breakfast, I was delighted that there was a) Marmite to have on my toast b) a Lavazza coffee machine and c) eggs made to order. And there was always a cup of chai waiting when we returned from our safaris. A pleasing attention to detail - which can be so often lacking in Indian hotels (I am sorry to say) - was to be found in everything at The Blackbuck Lodge.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwmvEqRO_Z1MEPDarUJHnmS7GA3e_ct1AuVenAJ26OCM4avOH5lEBlxphIBSatU5bmd0AV6yrUYEp-J3pSDhmoUAkwGzOIZTcwnxHiYGS_fLGhUV_us3NNGz2zFyKYGqMBnslb55qObc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwmvEqRO_Z1MEPDarUJHnmS7GA3e_ct1AuVenAJ26OCM4avOH5lEBlxphIBSatU5bmd0AV6yrUYEp-J3pSDhmoUAkwGzOIZTcwnxHiYGS_fLGhUV_us3NNGz2zFyKYGqMBnslb55qObc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+25.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buffet in the dining area - service was really excellent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really do recommend this place as a fantastic getaway from Mumbai - as I mentioned in <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2014/03/blackbuck-national-park-velavadur.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">my previous post</a>, the flight is less than one hour from Mumbai and the drive to the resort a further one hour. Even if you decide not to take a jeep safari into the park, you can while away hours sitting on your verandah with a book, waiting to see what wildlife will pitch up right in front of you. Go with friends - as we did, and your evenings will be filled with laughter and stories. We all came away feeling very relaxed at the end of our stay and ready to face the onslaught that is Mumbai.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And never before have I stayed anywhere in India where they've 'just got it right'. I have to say very well done indeed to Micky Desai - this place is literally an oasis of good-taste.<br />
<br />
More pics of course....<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6yZ-7hQhLkXDcU8yjTrYGwLArQlWE2S1Re4I7CNfgKmyLwtXEnZRQCowqu1CZ8HnnvVOD14INfxTr26OFWaAaGrHCjPCjNExCY7rCQkRrGJFehOEYl_fiQpmmeKubdTadI9E7FKyH3jc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6yZ-7hQhLkXDcU8yjTrYGwLArQlWE2S1Re4I7CNfgKmyLwtXEnZRQCowqu1CZ8HnnvVOD14INfxTr26OFWaAaGrHCjPCjNExCY7rCQkRrGJFehOEYl_fiQpmmeKubdTadI9E7FKyH3jc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+15.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything in the cottage was so tasteful</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheABEk8R73ShoIPCmk6oKDIWZE50weEoxOfnRt_JvcpcgaYobwsOEsvFTF4Yfj6wXVMZcrZInIaGL8LHKxpuGb_L4v8R1RicaLwQBL-jfxMqNzCzceqbQT0cVZnegNI3ghdbQ-a32DCPg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheABEk8R73ShoIPCmk6oKDIWZE50weEoxOfnRt_JvcpcgaYobwsOEsvFTF4Yfj6wXVMZcrZInIaGL8LHKxpuGb_L4v8R1RicaLwQBL-jfxMqNzCzceqbQT0cVZnegNI3ghdbQ-a32DCPg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+04.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDksYWm6lXY_OrmyYuByrXe3ZQuJuilHah3ExT4tmurWJMCzruj1MWqNoKsGJFS_JpUmH1sT1ImipJ-oau2tLpJSmGLfVwIMwbBcDU1KJ_Op629fmgNz3T3jSXUxUkv9EY4z0CiOq7g0/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDksYWm6lXY_OrmyYuByrXe3ZQuJuilHah3ExT4tmurWJMCzruj1MWqNoKsGJFS_JpUmH1sT1ImipJ-oau2tLpJSmGLfVwIMwbBcDU1KJ_Op629fmgNz3T3jSXUxUkv9EY4z0CiOq7g0/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+05.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUOqGJWbL96Y_2WDVtNB_e5MnHgAZpd5OCuv2i3kpRxHU9CJRYz7NzrPeSfdiC3Xu-pBXeyJQ_7C57yjsAFvw52eYSKaumpVsqnK-l6arj3arcr26s6ih_58MpU8-c8G38vAZD4Uz_HU/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUOqGJWbL96Y_2WDVtNB_e5MnHgAZpd5OCuv2i3kpRxHU9CJRYz7NzrPeSfdiC3Xu-pBXeyJQ_7C57yjsAFvw52eYSKaumpVsqnK-l6arj3arcr26s6ih_58MpU8-c8G38vAZD4Uz_HU/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+06.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7ViXLcvsbwfFQhcJPo6mI0Ala4j-SjzoX_PfQHMIEKyt47jTqm2GJ-98dOukS_tveSFfDbs1IFyctuShyphenhyphenmC_GLpz681fKrBc9o3H2N9J0ZOKesYUa3R5UeYDQkifDrzZyN3Ez1h-2lc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha7ViXLcvsbwfFQhcJPo6mI0Ala4j-SjzoX_PfQHMIEKyt47jTqm2GJ-98dOukS_tveSFfDbs1IFyctuShyphenhyphenmC_GLpz681fKrBc9o3H2N9J0ZOKesYUa3R5UeYDQkifDrzZyN3Ez1h-2lc/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+11.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marble dispensers contain soap, shampoo etc and a mosquito spray is provided. <br />
There are no plastic bags allowed on site - so the bin even contains a brown paper bag.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi90yXyj0HwhSZCZ89IKujAkCMYq6qMuT5SOX-jQw8jQsL4anapY_Y8_-76e7qPkQ7r80dnLHxdGy0NwPjyJ2qj0quraDK5G0ZH9BadLI9-mpuGia4Qc9geeNcVeZvrfW4URqrEcpKsV7E/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi90yXyj0HwhSZCZ89IKujAkCMYq6qMuT5SOX-jQw8jQsL4anapY_Y8_-76e7qPkQ7r80dnLHxdGy0NwPjyJ2qj0quraDK5G0ZH9BadLI9-mpuGia4Qc9geeNcVeZvrfW4URqrEcpKsV7E/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+12.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The outside shower!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBY357kSVes5M9sgfT4eDorY1Nts0aHesi6ZEMS1L2bbo_V9ngon5TTgP3D_6sQwGOfokxcvtHHnmpMunYzaKsJHtLVfzeAbbqXz-PciXf4anZzeoyWa8GFozkM43ooa2vrDUL9MN-Gg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBY357kSVes5M9sgfT4eDorY1Nts0aHesi6ZEMS1L2bbo_V9ngon5TTgP3D_6sQwGOfokxcvtHHnmpMunYzaKsJHtLVfzeAbbqXz-PciXf4anZzeoyWa8GFozkM43ooa2vrDUL9MN-Gg/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+14.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside shower!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigMs3a327EYqvEbQOXBkVmES8x0-OTAQaL0qXfoQjsTgGXEBPkm4_K6BxHO72VLsfMOLKxU5oOG_TcSqPCxSQte8R6ovXR4FOMv9QnYmLU6SOIkXxmCU29YzryQch6eTps7yKCHVk6RM/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigMs3a327EYqvEbQOXBkVmES8x0-OTAQaL0qXfoQjsTgGXEBPkm4_K6BxHO72VLsfMOLKxU5oOG_TcSqPCxSQte8R6ovXR4FOMv9QnYmLU6SOIkXxmCU29YzryQch6eTps7yKCHVk6RM/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+16.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View through back door - leads straight on to parkland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwxM_KsGkNa9cRpQJ4_dGPS7XhdKI1-tn5r3RgyJ-XgLrqpmwGZyaLzIVRTcziEe71sK2eXappHfRHoRFZt220R0tTaVbNyO_DOON2mVoGzq3dqJb32OB3Kx2CJ-1jVX48YiIhXZGq2gE/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwxM_KsGkNa9cRpQJ4_dGPS7XhdKI1-tn5r3RgyJ-XgLrqpmwGZyaLzIVRTcziEe71sK2eXappHfRHoRFZt220R0tTaVbNyO_DOON2mVoGzq3dqJb32OB3Kx2CJ-1jVX48YiIhXZGq2gE/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+18.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything is branded with the Blackbuck logo - even the tea and coffee facilities.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPHzyIn3WVC7jVqJc7oHDbnWv9WzFwtb5ImiX7-XeQTg17ecW0GYAsqmDbHylPfnDAlFCzo8I9ms36VvxrIV6_0w0BhKB5-gl2rukGl4ylCf2IYJ-xkP0ffBSU9mraptrNiwKrPG8Cdj8/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPHzyIn3WVC7jVqJc7oHDbnWv9WzFwtb5ImiX7-XeQTg17ecW0GYAsqmDbHylPfnDAlFCzo8I9ms36VvxrIV6_0w0BhKB5-gl2rukGl4ylCf2IYJ-xkP0ffBSU9mraptrNiwKrPG8Cdj8/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+20.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two comfy chairs on the verandah from which to do your birdwatching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvD47-iVtlaOJcOCWgGGCIZlgPYUmqn65shVbAyeIwoCrGNukWUcAfyotWlYl4ivSRK-BwKfQgSzyIMNanqR5bnUTNAAFGMh0ekMwevy_GgfmMsn81DbDbiPgq6c1qjgDq79I7feIL3Zk/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvD47-iVtlaOJcOCWgGGCIZlgPYUmqn65shVbAyeIwoCrGNukWUcAfyotWlYl4ivSRK-BwKfQgSzyIMNanqR5bnUTNAAFGMh0ekMwevy_GgfmMsn81DbDbiPgq6c1qjgDq79I7feIL3Zk/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+22.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtTSErG0g0FvMx3pYmFtpcoSpKUXfF6k98q0nwvXmSmMULAL31fiAxSU8qXFeGHfhe4w_iO-BTz6n98mAHHJZz18fyp2z36s6Awx5qjsUqdbtGcvd7WXLzr3nGRArks5DNLnrPjiIhac/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtTSErG0g0FvMx3pYmFtpcoSpKUXfF6k98q0nwvXmSmMULAL31fiAxSU8qXFeGHfhe4w_iO-BTz6n98mAHHJZz18fyp2z36s6Awx5qjsUqdbtGcvd7WXLzr3nGRArks5DNLnrPjiIhac/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+27.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the canopied dining tables outside the dining room - takes the heat of the midday sun off you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrUFrbGIRtxKsBiSQcNSQFh2Ldtvc8Qbv5MDRq_Lm098nMjrnU0rg2lxKk36nnoKYwavXaVmd2b7sW4edtpOmPOpIwyr-qHYzprv6SN0Uzh7g7izm9ZYxXUhFbXxpaNPTL14YK3twa90/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrUFrbGIRtxKsBiSQcNSQFh2Ldtvc8Qbv5MDRq_Lm098nMjrnU0rg2lxKk36nnoKYwavXaVmd2b7sW4edtpOmPOpIwyr-qHYzprv6SN0Uzh7g7izm9ZYxXUhFbXxpaNPTL14YK3twa90/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+29.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tented sun loungers by the watering hole.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWW-k1HbtL4V4oGcHYXBlpZMhQlTo3MHRWalVt6IidvQSjtNQzvs5UvobDbQX3WrBd7DwONIoGGNziT8yZGNA1CKAYgCNNEq2XUOeIZSFmqejfeGUm-khRVXRS6pL7drhx6GAkIjnChUE/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWW-k1HbtL4V4oGcHYXBlpZMhQlTo3MHRWalVt6IidvQSjtNQzvs5UvobDbQX3WrBd7DwONIoGGNziT8yZGNA1CKAYgCNNEq2XUOeIZSFmqejfeGUm-khRVXRS6pL7drhx6GAkIjnChUE/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+32.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reception area has sofas and reading matter to suit every taste - including the latest editions of Vogue and GQ magazines.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uvQuDAX-BM4be0Y-hsTA6QiSbt_uhMr7WBkAPtAdVY2QZ1c8EKCvaIspBk6qd3Y3PUkxnW5x9h-Qblm9hmHbGsilMYhkTzhiAt-1UrIW7QLpFf4LGXGW1IkFgtjmopCcbZ2PfzKcWu4/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uvQuDAX-BM4be0Y-hsTA6QiSbt_uhMr7WBkAPtAdVY2QZ1c8EKCvaIspBk6qd3Y3PUkxnW5x9h-Qblm9hmHbGsilMYhkTzhiAt-1UrIW7QLpFf4LGXGW1IkFgtjmopCcbZ2PfzKcWu4/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+35.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dining room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvfDOPIc8oo01TbE7iUOqp-jiw1AoChaiwvd7ybINj9acP4Ge6d3yQUXWmxuo_TzPIZfYROOHI57FW9VBAMKSMQSJPSLOUaqcgfG-qa_E6ePM1pMbFmIU2MXh7nUB71XKbidIvOuLmmk/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvfDOPIc8oo01TbE7iUOqp-jiw1AoChaiwvd7ybINj9acP4Ge6d3yQUXWmxuo_TzPIZfYROOHI57FW9VBAMKSMQSJPSLOUaqcgfG-qa_E6ePM1pMbFmIU2MXh7nUB71XKbidIvOuLmmk/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+39.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of parkland from the verandah of our cottage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwu7Mj-KpsVw-6_oXj2I8EEKMMIN9UpPDCnLmvIbnwPE7DbCRMRImQN9HmP8LdjrKyBKKMOQozelBk1Z1dQu6H9XaytbHdxn15jEfB_DK8dPamOp92tx3nI6UdaJd8STHl9D2rT-pDDQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwu7Mj-KpsVw-6_oXj2I8EEKMMIN9UpPDCnLmvIbnwPE7DbCRMRImQN9HmP8LdjrKyBKKMOQozelBk1Z1dQu6H9XaytbHdxn15jEfB_DK8dPamOp92tx3nI6UdaJd8STHl9D2rT-pDDQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+40.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our friends' cottage next door - plenty of privacy and space in between the cottages.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVhiHbUMT44lrMtd0COLx8TDkkEFnlm7vg61gV1X9QBCVXk8G-wCR1SE2VqZbNFYoea9BYLFD0c1S12KcwGq_mwGGpPoEZx67uScucGOgm9zxDFmh8sRAPCkKRIJZI0h9WZHe99gjQP4/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVhiHbUMT44lrMtd0COLx8TDkkEFnlm7vg61gV1X9QBCVXk8G-wCR1SE2VqZbNFYoea9BYLFD0c1S12KcwGq_mwGGpPoEZx67uScucGOgm9zxDFmh8sRAPCkKRIJZI0h9WZHe99gjQP4/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+42.jpg" height="240" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBgD-cRWCmdB3KWU1pnQFPLs2Tcl0-q3EOmKl4MVe6J-YWgKbDS4C6pdLoN6Wj1awTisNT8t3fe9BK_sMZlTJunqg3n8AocQedD4FSym02Vcw3O5L-KwbF8XHzlCiThZXuQaYdqdQ20w/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBgD-cRWCmdB3KWU1pnQFPLs2Tcl0-q3EOmKl4MVe6J-YWgKbDS4C6pdLoN6Wj1awTisNT8t3fe9BK_sMZlTJunqg3n8AocQedD4FSym02Vcw3O5L-KwbF8XHzlCiThZXuQaYdqdQ20w/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+44.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKmN25ahaEC38RQAMzC_EHNx-5HItIP1Q65uuqKZX-J5hz6SUYhjUKDggizgHSMdnm9PgoduF-AWq4cH5fpYJk_IAIzGF9aiTD9zf8xxNpCx921-L2h6Fc3k8JENj-dsgJ_1gkKMc324/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKmN25ahaEC38RQAMzC_EHNx-5HItIP1Q65uuqKZX-J5hz6SUYhjUKDggizgHSMdnm9PgoduF-AWq4cH5fpYJk_IAIzGF9aiTD9zf8xxNpCx921-L2h6Fc3k8JENj-dsgJ_1gkKMc324/s1600/Blackbuck+Lodge+Velavadar+-+49.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The verandah overlooking the watering hole by reception</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFW5KtoJa9CknBGyF59JHCFmqv_fbfq_NonQ1iNEkZkGuWYgb4_zGkKjnSDnkOFhB0Cp0ppsowA7GJi-BEKilJo2i5l0qdQkqru5dG7awEpxDtp1LjFz7JFF1HRHvXTeZx9JmgLCNjgc/s1600/DSC_0291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFW5KtoJa9CknBGyF59JHCFmqv_fbfq_NonQ1iNEkZkGuWYgb4_zGkKjnSDnkOFhB0Cp0ppsowA7GJi-BEKilJo2i5l0qdQkqru5dG7awEpxDtp1LjFz7JFF1HRHvXTeZx9JmgLCNjgc/s1600/DSC_0291.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lake at twilight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3mAsyAlpQaaNk6RFe8uzOx2xz5lDT7yLS0TZWXRzSSzhj7xVJ0yn1jJ5dPHxM6lAcQhovNmtIP3LWnKLxqLhg03t8VSkyd2s6FkY26sR1zehztBMP2jUlULmBD5NPG-hyBnIY6Cf_LA/s1600/DSC_0636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3mAsyAlpQaaNk6RFe8uzOx2xz5lDT7yLS0TZWXRzSSzhj7xVJ0yn1jJ5dPHxM6lAcQhovNmtIP3LWnKLxqLhg03t8VSkyd2s6FkY26sR1zehztBMP2jUlULmBD5NPG-hyBnIY6Cf_LA/s1600/DSC_0636.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The owner's resident pug, Mogli, goes on safari</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IzPafEONQPYkxm9Rrhzeoxtg_1Ub3GOcFz32fK8hhAAIEFZMseM65ehGGY0we4cXacMgx5OD9rm2VYTJ3LOEclT1BG8TF0ntjiKHvv76bdknkmA9xRqSDJsHZrhkl6_znQcMB3uWgBw/s1600/DSC_9832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7IzPafEONQPYkxm9Rrhzeoxtg_1Ub3GOcFz32fK8hhAAIEFZMseM65ehGGY0we4cXacMgx5OD9rm2VYTJ3LOEclT1BG8TF0ntjiKHvv76bdknkmA9xRqSDJsHZrhkl6_znQcMB3uWgBw/s1600/DSC_9832.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such attention to detail - even the chambermaids carry wicker baskets in which to put their cleaning materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPKY0O23CGwd95OjCZ34zVew0vjihZ2kuuUJbsLANufQDzcz2i0o_I7mRtdTIqctOkWkQpAU-Ph0cgBvPaSzPu6zaEh6PIp2p1Z32AdizbMotikXeRhBOtuRR8qUYqHapqvE2okRQt_I/s1600/DSC_9863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPKY0O23CGwd95OjCZ34zVew0vjihZ2kuuUJbsLANufQDzcz2i0o_I7mRtdTIqctOkWkQpAU-Ph0cgBvPaSzPu6zaEh6PIp2p1Z32AdizbMotikXeRhBOtuRR8qUYqHapqvE2okRQt_I/s1600/DSC_9863.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The resident duck (one of three that is still alive after his brothers were eaten by local wildlife!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkIsMVXfM_9l1jqcgWx-NgtLaIYltWbquWZHin5TGWmjejYbLSHaa6_YOs2JpT67U82ekVp9vJsVk1HOhzzMxxi2HHpzwquiKBgcfSEj2Y-FygYMy4Q7db7AAQMwR1cYclcXUzuDGNC0/s1600/DSC_0299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkIsMVXfM_9l1jqcgWx-NgtLaIYltWbquWZHin5TGWmjejYbLSHaa6_YOs2JpT67U82ekVp9vJsVk1HOhzzMxxi2HHpzwquiKBgcfSEj2Y-FygYMy4Q7db7AAQMwR1cYclcXUzuDGNC0/s1600/DSC_0299.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'pop up' bar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="header02" style="text-align: -webkit-left;">The only thing missing at the resort (should you want it) is a swimming pool - but good news is that one is being built and should be ready later this year!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="header02" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="header02" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="header02" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;">The Blackbuck Lodge</span><br style="text-align: -webkit-left;" /><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;">Velavadar National Park,<br />Dist. Bhavnagar, Bhal,<br />Saurashtra, Gujarat, India</span><span class="header01" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;">Lodge:</span><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;"><br />Tel: 9978979728 / 9978979729 & 9979157058</span><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></span><span class="header01" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;">Email:</span><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;"> <a class="links01" href="mailto:reservations@theblackbucklodge.com" style="text-decoration: none;"><br />reservations@theblackbucklodge.com</a></span><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /></span><span class="header01" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-left;">Website:</span><span class="bodytext01" style="text-align: -webkit-left;"><br /><a href="http://www.theblackbucklodge.com/">www.theblackbucklodge.com</a></span></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-49614937629185070992014-03-03T13:29:00.001+05:302014-03-03T14:30:40.091+05:30Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
OK, so I am back to blogging now... and this one goes out especially to my in-laws, who love wildlife.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We have just returned from a short weekend in Gujurat where we stayed at the heavenly Blackbuck Lodge in Velavadar (see the next post for details). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The National Park here is one of a handful of places where you will find the near endangered <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackbuck" target="_blank">Blackbuck</a> antelope. A most beautiful creature with prominent markings which include a white ring around the eye and spiralling, cylindrical horns. There are around 3,000 blackbucks in the park and seeing them was easy. You can also find hyenas, wild boar, nilgai, wolves and jungle cats in the park, although unfortunately we missed the hyenas. We witnessed a plethora of birdlife - Mr Jules probably spotted over 80 species of which around 20 were new to him (phew, he was happy then!)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUEGxCAXLmRVxuGJ8zVFiGqZV75xLBawlt-FcqRym2gT40C7NvC8zKgKp-w-17usyVWuCiZnvk6QIXJBVTt4Cne_I3D6WGbreFc5f3R7Y9YlkX99NkVH_G48ZPa1tuo0AOtejcElfaAg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipUEGxCAXLmRVxuGJ8zVFiGqZV75xLBawlt-FcqRym2gT40C7NvC8zKgKp-w-17usyVWuCiZnvk6QIXJBVTt4Cne_I3D6WGbreFc5f3R7Y9YlkX99NkVH_G48ZPa1tuo0AOtejcElfaAg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+33.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning blackbuck stags with their very distinctive markings.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The landscape at Velavadar was so very different to the jungles that we have experienced so far. Very flat and grassy, with a smattering of acacia trees dotting the park. It has been compared to African Savannah - which I guess is not too far wrong. The knee-high grassland means that it is easy to spot the blackbuck (even when they lie down, you can still see their antlers poking out of the grass) but not so easy to see anything smaller. It was thanks to an eagle-eyed friend who came with us that we saw the jungle cat, as it was very well camouflaged in the yellow straw-like grass.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For me, this was another opportunity to improve my wildlife photography skills - which I tend to struggle with. But I have a new 70-300mm Nikkor lens for my Nikon D7000 which I found a lot easier to control than the the 80-400mm lens that I hired on the last safari. Baby steps!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is a selection of photos....</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHGgICQhoJF7KOYmfEoqda5Q2qwIL_MlP9NhCIf3RqSQ2XXvmRxdKEzzCmoMQ_o9hDeJgg9atvvKn2tWoXK564GnYv1mEWp7rPUo7hWSKh4ekiruI_n3TJzjUqXA-2SRUzVZ_PV7m3Xo/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHGgICQhoJF7KOYmfEoqda5Q2qwIL_MlP9NhCIf3RqSQ2XXvmRxdKEzzCmoMQ_o9hDeJgg9atvvKn2tWoXK564GnYv1mEWp7rPUo7hWSKh4ekiruI_n3TJzjUqXA-2SRUzVZ_PV7m3Xo/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+02.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brown shrike </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRUMXw78GU4COSpmIl62VqOAXSGr9ZtHNJNyj3pQ6oRjp9rxNWzNhozbAR9yovNZ9xAKgz50V2RNPLUuXOoeF9VBrIashP4TZeNgW8kGm3zcNlsoH5j1zg4kvByxcqIY5MhdGcprdTYE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRUMXw78GU4COSpmIl62VqOAXSGr9ZtHNJNyj3pQ6oRjp9rxNWzNhozbAR9yovNZ9xAKgz50V2RNPLUuXOoeF9VBrIashP4TZeNgW8kGm3zcNlsoH5j1zg4kvByxcqIY5MhdGcprdTYE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+01.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And again...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4eNRmIz1Ce6zvwadxcEO3liETstcJhmgbOSgmlx5moka-xCNBqMC-SAuMTF_b5FWsja2jUOtz6meYIAtRAdPwqDQqYrUgUetpASC7odPmXpueRYDXoKBwNidL1IhIv3_YlDK9Bv9nIs/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4eNRmIz1Ce6zvwadxcEO3liETstcJhmgbOSgmlx5moka-xCNBqMC-SAuMTF_b5FWsja2jUOtz6meYIAtRAdPwqDQqYrUgUetpASC7odPmXpueRYDXoKBwNidL1IhIv3_YlDK9Bv9nIs/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+03.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White-throated kingfisher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafogZ1UCyEi6gbDkWkip3W6cMNx03NVnT0hLWdr3vi1_QpPD8lqJIEiEY4rwsj4thOQn7qfqTB1gK1DcGYLYeBPIoA8gUWU2ZjTslPyBNaTwViJzV53fw2MqrVT8EuwxQpzWrG3R2lmQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafogZ1UCyEi6gbDkWkip3W6cMNx03NVnT0hLWdr3vi1_QpPD8lqJIEiEY4rwsj4thOQn7qfqTB1gK1DcGYLYeBPIoA8gUWU2ZjTslPyBNaTwViJzV53fw2MqrVT8EuwxQpzWrG3R2lmQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+04.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two male Nilgai having a tussle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjBAAx6aY82_mWG6bcmRjzLnNKHmAoFKGMfVjoJU6RWULaIsBg1ZQkiMHWdBMHTkZk8sRhidMgVZJvtxi-7cj_YZ8PvsIzsLlSBKLbX1n2CsNYK8ulnP3dtqaL3WBi437BNRWUYyoDHw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjBAAx6aY82_mWG6bcmRjzLnNKHmAoFKGMfVjoJU6RWULaIsBg1ZQkiMHWdBMHTkZk8sRhidMgVZJvtxi-7cj_YZ8PvsIzsLlSBKLbX1n2CsNYK8ulnP3dtqaL3WBi437BNRWUYyoDHw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+05.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A young male blackbuck (juveniles are brown) leaping across the road</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZ1V__jvm1MhqpdjuV5D_FdmlVrLs7WmV7F42xXK5x8m_IxS1lQ7CHIxrp9TuiBPkwWtSm4KeFFEqF5lXYuspQcQ1GU4Ts8jqaqQSy1jQlgVoQVSWWFWp5zPUWgSrQys1Ei_bi2TbHQU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZ1V__jvm1MhqpdjuV5D_FdmlVrLs7WmV7F42xXK5x8m_IxS1lQ7CHIxrp9TuiBPkwWtSm4KeFFEqF5lXYuspQcQ1GU4Ts8jqaqQSy1jQlgVoQVSWWFWp5zPUWgSrQys1Ei_bi2TbHQU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+06.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bee-eater</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLO_VTnYoN3KF690f_U5kPC9mvicIHqN1AGpdyGI7-g38EiEBm66ugKVnVk3FYlGrb4BCoadAgByLMjShN5HDE7CWOUSOXBU03zcNojwpgnsO64qwWkYzbLXHMab-5-HaU4RRaE4WEMc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLO_VTnYoN3KF690f_U5kPC9mvicIHqN1AGpdyGI7-g38EiEBm66ugKVnVk3FYlGrb4BCoadAgByLMjShN5HDE7CWOUSOXBU03zcNojwpgnsO64qwWkYzbLXHMab-5-HaU4RRaE4WEMc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+08.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nilgai - a type of antelope which are almost pre-historic in appearance. Their heads are way too small for their bodies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEhREhof2ntaCKO4xjXJcxNeK2REvvN9l-IggVYsp8h2_y8vroZXBIqyyq5wOoYyuCJnwjtUrN73PiHQ-aJJHJbL6-D-wdnR4GpjxDu4haRfYviezYbzhbPChsk26pEZ2dRN-dHx1hnE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEhREhof2ntaCKO4xjXJcxNeK2REvvN9l-IggVYsp8h2_y8vroZXBIqyyq5wOoYyuCJnwjtUrN73PiHQ-aJJHJbL6-D-wdnR4GpjxDu4haRfYviezYbzhbPChsk26pEZ2dRN-dHx1hnE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+10.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4p0K_VV9geFYVWWpV4rr5O1TJEhZehZSpaldoswVFt235gz-vMXtRi7C9WbMiAUNejF4DOhKSotFDIj-gQFQ2fPDt7tDqslvdt6RXhazubUSvVYcnVcnRrdHflchtrPTjgocvCaw3Iw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS4p0K_VV9geFYVWWpV4rr5O1TJEhZehZSpaldoswVFt235gz-vMXtRi7C9WbMiAUNejF4DOhKSotFDIj-gQFQ2fPDt7tDqslvdt6RXhazubUSvVYcnVcnRrdHflchtrPTjgocvCaw3Iw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+11.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two young blackbuck stags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKlCK6xSyUC-gazifpXJrCM9gjQ00mjtg-SBACYvIgWdYLpCoixBGVUGHg7PI4dCCIjRFbynvPZuiQ761_Nb3MDEHK45b_psrsoP-D7wIf1jjGabXmHvGwQUtptL3vg1XNywCbBM5-lU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKlCK6xSyUC-gazifpXJrCM9gjQ00mjtg-SBACYvIgWdYLpCoixBGVUGHg7PI4dCCIjRFbynvPZuiQ761_Nb3MDEHK45b_psrsoP-D7wIf1jjGabXmHvGwQUtptL3vg1XNywCbBM5-lU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+12.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A young stag between two older ones</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXWnrAAFb5s4vzuNOQ1CKWt2_waacnqW8crngNg6qKyM7efbBXV0E-r8iXeofyKQJGzR9sY3B9JX0Gw_k9lnb-P4fts0o3KzrW51aH6oEQORs0GbkP3Bk8cdazwaL08jw-eC-A5H2bBw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOXWnrAAFb5s4vzuNOQ1CKWt2_waacnqW8crngNg6qKyM7efbBXV0E-r8iXeofyKQJGzR9sY3B9JX0Gw_k9lnb-P4fts0o3KzrW51aH6oEQORs0GbkP3Bk8cdazwaL08jw-eC-A5H2bBw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+13.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lapwing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NAr34ru_fgrmosFU8R4i9YevCjwQAk0dCuYGfeS2P4Fee7GWcDgXErkrBzViooygiaugTKOfeQylhbdZkxzJopj7NNXrU7OUkGFDcIOr7xuZNRkh7dwKwlAcLppama8BzbbOKqX0COg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-NAr34ru_fgrmosFU8R4i9YevCjwQAk0dCuYGfeS2P4Fee7GWcDgXErkrBzViooygiaugTKOfeQylhbdZkxzJopj7NNXrU7OUkGFDcIOr7xuZNRkh7dwKwlAcLppama8BzbbOKqX0COg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+14.jpg" height="256" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incredible sight of hundreds of pelicans at the waterhole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UFLrz3z8lnhJGw0KpSo43Df2_YEYSDeGaQpKMbmNn1WRybYH845ytVFEyb09iesMoMuKIiO01lFiOC1OTYzT2PXF8TuGOPLgIouNXsynrZTQsOBhfByiY270PD9i2JGm76r5aT_Go9w/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UFLrz3z8lnhJGw0KpSo43Df2_YEYSDeGaQpKMbmNn1WRybYH845ytVFEyb09iesMoMuKIiO01lFiOC1OTYzT2PXF8TuGOPLgIouNXsynrZTQsOBhfByiY270PD9i2JGm76r5aT_Go9w/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+16.jpg" height="400" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our guide and driver - not particularly worried about wearing bright colours on safari!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilunKVFkkP37fr00lB8ts-5r8yDgRrvyJQrej5iaLUbZ_XH6f5Z_oQyKIokVmXuXmjzt9hyphenhyphenPiWCn4WgxI3CFshBlxFJssWlVX1hQPZMtmxBWMcG2aWNbTSkNExaZzDqbkn4o5cWfJ6xqc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilunKVFkkP37fr00lB8ts-5r8yDgRrvyJQrej5iaLUbZ_XH6f5Z_oQyKIokVmXuXmjzt9hyphenhyphenPiWCn4WgxI3CFshBlxFJssWlVX1hQPZMtmxBWMcG2aWNbTSkNExaZzDqbkn4o5cWfJ6xqc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+17.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pelican in the reeds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRdWpt8dCp4JARg1Qech8SC62WTcgzI5ZASqZU-2rn_qWMjp4ht6hhFA01WBHyLrhnmS0dU1unc0OC2K9zLBJsihJwKYjvxNxi3dkF0qnLYGNsCeIssemgji5VkxbDA4AAoW_ygTt5RY/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRdWpt8dCp4JARg1Qech8SC62WTcgzI5ZASqZU-2rn_qWMjp4ht6hhFA01WBHyLrhnmS0dU1unc0OC2K9zLBJsihJwKYjvxNxi3dkF0qnLYGNsCeIssemgji5VkxbDA4AAoW_ygTt5RY/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+18.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild boar (or Dave Lee Travis as I called him)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVDFDSdJGiEjgVSuEJkp059upfrYcP2uQvhHHCXHShKxaSIE1CDzETFAuFDi6oEFk54Q8fnDh8KVxuAdrl7Pv3buGVkJe9PIdBe7VaPsCGow6krizrb9H1h2fIUD_j3vPU_bL1Q-nfrU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVDFDSdJGiEjgVSuEJkp059upfrYcP2uQvhHHCXHShKxaSIE1CDzETFAuFDi6oEFk54Q8fnDh8KVxuAdrl7Pv3buGVkJe9PIdBe7VaPsCGow6krizrb9H1h2fIUD_j3vPU_bL1Q-nfrU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+19.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning sunsets at the waterhole</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHSLaRBSVRkL_WmUp24CGALYpsrQ1QDseN_TD5jQ1ZsswfpRdV5vfvqssn7tyVmvYNRk9QVKwQWqJwGf619F7wP2H1C0HUOIYWl_EXUC9X3T2BUclIOJtiLprRsxhcZMVLyqC9Ix7etE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaHSLaRBSVRkL_WmUp24CGALYpsrQ1QDseN_TD5jQ1ZsswfpRdV5vfvqssn7tyVmvYNRk9QVKwQWqJwGf619F7wP2H1C0HUOIYWl_EXUC9X3T2BUclIOJtiLprRsxhcZMVLyqC9Ix7etE/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+22.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhZFiDpohuEZJWT_2A2G2EbYaZq9lbFaJpy5Eareu2MsM0ztp95kCgu95fav9Vx4-0aE6TAyhXOFe1aU1fy0vXVSZLoWPBq0lcj6SblZxgYbKawmME9wC-YCMasSP27JijemxiwGr2WA/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhhZFiDpohuEZJWT_2A2G2EbYaZq9lbFaJpy5Eareu2MsM0ztp95kCgu95fav9Vx4-0aE6TAyhXOFe1aU1fy0vXVSZLoWPBq0lcj6SblZxgYbKawmME9wC-YCMasSP27JijemxiwGr2WA/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+25.jpg" height="396" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early morning - egret perched on nilgai</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvWMFHnptswcSEcHxWS_Cp_c4dmN41EOn_euXIB77q-Nbav_boDPA9yI9HIQGLjiO8gE4h390cWWHIU0HAc93sMbDpTeV3o19z7U7DLmdQEN9bjNqwh9WzKFUiWBJ0xdJHkQcbbuhTlw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvWMFHnptswcSEcHxWS_Cp_c4dmN41EOn_euXIB77q-Nbav_boDPA9yI9HIQGLjiO8gE4h390cWWHIU0HAc93sMbDpTeV3o19z7U7DLmdQEN9bjNqwh9WzKFUiWBJ0xdJHkQcbbuhTlw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+26.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMCaH8In2f4KMHl4iEWfS5DzL0aaK5tvHQ6GK5DwS5ESRcEQkuZEr3kWCcfA4Mz_bmw8B5PnKpzPCRJeR_Zcrhhjf_lelkRxAdzcezhK_-ci26NLKV54Qzc4gkKw5_hSBIfyRISOuzxg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMCaH8In2f4KMHl4iEWfS5DzL0aaK5tvHQ6GK5DwS5ESRcEQkuZEr3kWCcfA4Mz_bmw8B5PnKpzPCRJeR_Zcrhhjf_lelkRxAdzcezhK_-ci26NLKV54Qzc4gkKw5_hSBIfyRISOuzxg/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+27.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Next few photos - two stags having a barney...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKLGaqti71yHDGrP7x-_vRHtSIbFT8o7-U33Y6aW7fNmijceJWcmDdJbO0wL8j-W4Ili0tMaqhXYFysX3MphL7qcHDGhjWpHt89GKhkQPQejTGCDOtGS5efv8CpHf28aXoL2_bS2SVMU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKLGaqti71yHDGrP7x-_vRHtSIbFT8o7-U33Y6aW7fNmijceJWcmDdJbO0wL8j-W4Ili0tMaqhXYFysX3MphL7qcHDGhjWpHt89GKhkQPQejTGCDOtGS5efv8CpHf28aXoL2_bS2SVMU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+28.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWSJL0wsJy9rC_34N-xQkM05-S2mgpUnouOJObPp-gbO5VUD9SxsLcF9vk6VeN1YxxMTlKc8xXwCv_9OvQMXotLFQdMEPreM1xO-g_QXLiLCs7tt6Z3ZrwcyKb24ppYaa4NM5IzDzZDU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWSJL0wsJy9rC_34N-xQkM05-S2mgpUnouOJObPp-gbO5VUD9SxsLcF9vk6VeN1YxxMTlKc8xXwCv_9OvQMXotLFQdMEPreM1xO-g_QXLiLCs7tt6Z3ZrwcyKb24ppYaa4NM5IzDzZDU/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+30.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLK-_5fzl2_j9_jIRoGjjLqBdouSYjUBuva10vV_MVhcbVsOoNiEaViwzqXPv3wA_gdDRrGwAK269Bp_m_b97rpDH29_UZaDCw7fCvsN32ZkINKeA8QEQld5dNOt6mMK24NjpXuQv7tc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLK-_5fzl2_j9_jIRoGjjLqBdouSYjUBuva10vV_MVhcbVsOoNiEaViwzqXPv3wA_gdDRrGwAK269Bp_m_b97rpDH29_UZaDCw7fCvsN32ZkINKeA8QEQld5dNOt6mMK24NjpXuQv7tc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+29.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLgOo2flfqAIKVQ8UNEAVLA3MxpSfuPVnOnsp1yqi8_yrZ6Sf-zPciz076rR6ecL_dbkJbAdQ32ysmXVGB6a2iLgaA3lnpS-RLOGfYSloA0FRy1Zi-8Knz3OWFAOV4dKIBQG65SIule8/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLgOo2flfqAIKVQ8UNEAVLA3MxpSfuPVnOnsp1yqi8_yrZ6Sf-zPciz076rR6ecL_dbkJbAdQ32ysmXVGB6a2iLgaA3lnpS-RLOGfYSloA0FRy1Zi-8Knz3OWFAOV4dKIBQG65SIule8/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+32.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...then friends again</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cfYd_GUfeQaIf9-yWUkBRFh0ndIU6PVFbSPzE1f0jAKYMl2x5iCf-lTwKLTrbGKpnDevBE453EApofr2wsy7zQ6iWYPSccUEOlQb-Dya1S4IBrm60I2gMmMWULJ4DDMpqpYVyz9xHgI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cfYd_GUfeQaIf9-yWUkBRFh0ndIU6PVFbSPzE1f0jAKYMl2x5iCf-lTwKLTrbGKpnDevBE453EApofr2wsy7zQ6iWYPSccUEOlQb-Dya1S4IBrm60I2gMmMWULJ4DDMpqpYVyz9xHgI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+34.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hen Harrier coming into land</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNq-u3BjOh7PVoJuAMsEulbI7WeR89Y_NIZuHm_KBBqnoR7mk-8e7kdh-p1fZntBjS_12NzpSOamKRWsZ3iKt8ndkqrwG6z5d1mByGyJB3cmQvKSS3DCXpU85ABv8X1BAnoL8Bf6XXy0o/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNq-u3BjOh7PVoJuAMsEulbI7WeR89Y_NIZuHm_KBBqnoR7mk-8e7kdh-p1fZntBjS_12NzpSOamKRWsZ3iKt8ndkqrwG6z5d1mByGyJB3cmQvKSS3DCXpU85ABv8X1BAnoL8Bf6XXy0o/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+36.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kestrel surveying the land. We also saw short-toed snake eagles but they were too far off to snap.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiV_ObpeBAC0nIVHy2EZXz0nnnrj_JtEGwxEJkELY31ji5yrVNj3NwbpSZ3UcMAG5BYApJYDeXXCZEU3epy3Z_BU7kqUHX1fDuuLl7TsYEWacD4VqgLxBiJ_MeMhcAVkgqXcKjVH5cA0/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiV_ObpeBAC0nIVHy2EZXz0nnnrj_JtEGwxEJkELY31ji5yrVNj3NwbpSZ3UcMAG5BYApJYDeXXCZEU3epy3Z_BU7kqUHX1fDuuLl7TsYEWacD4VqgLxBiJ_MeMhcAVkgqXcKjVH5cA0/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+37.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look closely or you'll miss it! Jungle Cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPVi3WafEYXpeXQQOlUGmdGL28586ZLGvoljmCDwq0fn_hGkbjLvfGYZ1CsgGi5MlnPS2AzxmfdRmQA05XMxq4mC7WyV6756DZ71RIK5K8l3Ik6KBLzLv9HNflRedulQLfWhwNeOtKFQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPVi3WafEYXpeXQQOlUGmdGL28586ZLGvoljmCDwq0fn_hGkbjLvfGYZ1CsgGi5MlnPS2AzxmfdRmQA05XMxq4mC7WyV6756DZ71RIK5K8l3Ik6KBLzLv9HNflRedulQLfWhwNeOtKFQ/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+38.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our guide in more trendy clothing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFS1266BlHLOmLARzpKFJKcH6eU3I4BFIzOR9XCcIS8yv8qgcJUWA2IOyg-6-TdvQ17JG2POehoOhbIiWgSvdYEzibCkBOmXcFTVpIsaTguiDmwgho9LSdyXo928-Ocm62Ru2nxKeDeyk/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFS1266BlHLOmLARzpKFJKcH6eU3I4BFIzOR9XCcIS8yv8qgcJUWA2IOyg-6-TdvQ17JG2POehoOhbIiWgSvdYEzibCkBOmXcFTVpIsaTguiDmwgho9LSdyXo928-Ocm62Ru2nxKeDeyk/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+40.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kestrel taking off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ_6uQj8RBF7sii2Q3eoSqdkG57jm_7QakMNbzmm-3IxhJaRtGOjQ2uQ5W0FRjwmZGnx0qSd1K_zOpRF6tP5fl8TeHPUHcR671xUio4Nj7ZUjxh3cAwmFgpk8cc03lXathRwr4xgDrPI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQ_6uQj8RBF7sii2Q3eoSqdkG57jm_7QakMNbzmm-3IxhJaRtGOjQ2uQ5W0FRjwmZGnx0qSd1K_zOpRF6tP5fl8TeHPUHcR671xUio4Nj7ZUjxh3cAwmFgpk8cc03lXathRwr4xgDrPI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+41.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond Heron</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZvuLszOomp5dX_3vCVG18mTW5HbBzAUwhWoUMr4gl3JW5cW5fHWRNyoUBTIZIdks36xxfzOiOGVgBHiqdZU1Xoc07vB-j2uyWS7YJBUGNnj3MUMufTczLcuNMCMGm3_5VTrnT-WiBos/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZvuLszOomp5dX_3vCVG18mTW5HbBzAUwhWoUMr4gl3JW5cW5fHWRNyoUBTIZIdks36xxfzOiOGVgBHiqdZU1Xoc07vB-j2uyWS7YJBUGNnj3MUMufTczLcuNMCMGm3_5VTrnT-WiBos/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+42.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our verandah - street dog and blackbuck in the distance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G5-ddhqvpK-WmOmrHWZkvwsvqJgBn3e0sUtC4hCNno1o2HpzszQwgXO4vFpvNjSU8ghIbLhBHIZNNgwFa_V5tCUeCXiTAttQTo21qMx8A2-CiXSmVtdg0frQy-6HsFxDWSvciaeuUww/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G5-ddhqvpK-WmOmrHWZkvwsvqJgBn3e0sUtC4hCNno1o2HpzszQwgXO4vFpvNjSU8ghIbLhBHIZNNgwFa_V5tCUeCXiTAttQTo21qMx8A2-CiXSmVtdg0frQy-6HsFxDWSvciaeuUww/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+43.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond Heron in flight</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapPrY42pKqVvEkN7BdT_quD9zY_uzXYA7p3NR68n9KyA8VxKivvh8I7gPWzvWotV6HnkAYQZD2XEJpilIqOFxRJ9PI5UWd2VNTe8RmCpBnXDeTMoDz5iS00uEFxDUca8stigixhAnIBw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapPrY42pKqVvEkN7BdT_quD9zY_uzXYA7p3NR68n9KyA8VxKivvh8I7gPWzvWotV6HnkAYQZD2XEJpilIqOFxRJ9PI5UWd2VNTe8RmCpBnXDeTMoDz5iS00uEFxDUca8stigixhAnIBw/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+44.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male sunbird</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF74cFNqUpCKVPia9ldcUoNlUf0_AAIoIGFWX6D37lDh4LhpHOEXyR8xddWwLn2G5wCasDgi8aubQy8mKlMXn3I_t_hCeF1ha8fPUczVWusqBb_Y440G1twfZv7ERfE9wXgP8Usoyz-qA/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF74cFNqUpCKVPia9ldcUoNlUf0_AAIoIGFWX6D37lDh4LhpHOEXyR8xddWwLn2G5wCasDgi8aubQy8mKlMXn3I_t_hCeF1ha8fPUczVWusqBb_Y440G1twfZv7ERfE9wXgP8Usoyz-qA/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+45.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose-ringed parakeet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQ_UAdO5WcDl-UI4ZbrubYWE7nom_iuGEjH4NxPLXqtpgEM2u0FX-m7GJG0HqMwEkpbBe4nyqTMb39LY9eC5KPrVK1sjeUzTbOedr0Nsq7OO9GOyOA0q27Z48YB5zKCd_yYYPFn1qitc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQ_UAdO5WcDl-UI4ZbrubYWE7nom_iuGEjH4NxPLXqtpgEM2u0FX-m7GJG0HqMwEkpbBe4nyqTMb39LY9eC5KPrVK1sjeUzTbOedr0Nsq7OO9GOyOA0q27Z48YB5zKCd_yYYPFn1qitc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+46.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow Wagtail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4gJagGfHT-vKgNmT9FpGPMgyWpLlVa6WdAk-zkVvwSK-Efc2ib5SJIJjh0FsJMW0UfZysQJKJYwrVA3nzhpf86Lx13-dbKCKtmqL5M38y9V3dtxdFQQeUbzmKhQL66YvsShpFExFYgc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4gJagGfHT-vKgNmT9FpGPMgyWpLlVa6WdAk-zkVvwSK-Efc2ib5SJIJjh0FsJMW0UfZysQJKJYwrVA3nzhpf86Lx13-dbKCKtmqL5M38y9V3dtxdFQQeUbzmKhQL66YvsShpFExFYgc/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+47.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liked the starkness of the hide against the landscape</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDbaHuqex-A4o6v_M1A-h870cqUia6xmPJm6NU_mIesRsJnye3hxCgFGz7pLii-SAujN7OY7vbZ7Djr33yWmhJngEaEh3paU811q2kgfwS6TvZr-4bONjkf7nPZoflyhIUB2Q8wNWFWk/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDbaHuqex-A4o6v_M1A-h870cqUia6xmPJm6NU_mIesRsJnye3hxCgFGz7pLii-SAujN7OY7vbZ7Djr33yWmhJngEaEh3paU811q2kgfwS6TvZr-4bONjkf7nPZoflyhIUB2Q8wNWFWk/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+48.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild boar - running through the grassland after a swim</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTOLoLHvxv9m2cNazhrK2t3iwkSmohdc_L94Uacb-eWzdbCdNAMiLvqduw2_vM6v-D1EppM9ibiX7oA5YXevv4VhrhBKosGcE9tuDWqnPax2-g__fkr__EzLR3g137172oP5DQYGN9gvI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTOLoLHvxv9m2cNazhrK2t3iwkSmohdc_L94Uacb-eWzdbCdNAMiLvqduw2_vM6v-D1EppM9ibiX7oA5YXevv4VhrhBKosGcE9tuDWqnPax2-g__fkr__EzLR3g137172oP5DQYGN9gvI/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+50.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very exciting moment when we finally spotted a wolf (the main hunters of the blackbuck) - two blackbuck look on nervously in the background. Unfortunately it was a bit too far off to get a good close-up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4FAVgf0MyLdN7Dnc-FdQR1Tbhx60uS5tRLV1alan5Y4K_u9Ck0znvuU7Y6p6rDNF54YMhzXjPRSfgy6JsDTRilY7Wzy1SC2ey3L4A9nixhGXOK59bUjN0nnOZXGoS0er8dV3bJbsfB4/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4FAVgf0MyLdN7Dnc-FdQR1Tbhx60uS5tRLV1alan5Y4K_u9Ck0znvuU7Y6p6rDNF54YMhzXjPRSfgy6JsDTRilY7Wzy1SC2ey3L4A9nixhGXOK59bUjN0nnOZXGoS0er8dV3bJbsfB4/s1600/Blackbuck+Park+Velavadar+-+51.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two young stags and an umpire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We flew from Mumbai to Bhavnagar in Gujurat on Jet airways - the flight is less than an hour (you start to land not long after take off!). We then took a car from the airport to our accommodation near the park (see my next post) which was only a one hour drive. Unfortunately the return flight is at 10.15 am which means that you lose a day at the resort. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the safari, we hired our jeep and guide through the hotel but you still need to pay park entrance and camera fees on top (ten times as much for the foreigner of course).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a highly recommended getaway from Mumbai!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
More info here: <a href="http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=239">http://www.gujarattourism.com/showpage.aspx?contentid=239</a></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-61648167949019798182014-02-27T18:44:00.002+05:302014-02-27T18:46:17.133+05:30Yes - I've been very quiet!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dear Blog Readers</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Apologies for the big gap in my posts. It will amaze you to know that I have been very busy with NGO work and have really tried to make it a priority over the last few weeks. Some amazing things are happening at the Foundation (which tackles malnutrition in Mumbai) and I have been working on the strategic planning side - in readiness for our new financial year. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We've also just introduced an amazing new database which will allow us to finally shift away from thousands of paper records and will enable us to produce some impressive stats about the impact that the organisation has made on the community - but all in good time, I will report more fully on that another time.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just in case you think I am telling fibs...here is a picture from the Foundation's office this morning - when colleagues and I started inputting data into the new system. (Yes, slightly boring work I have to admit!)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypCojAUBmwSXJXxT-9s_86U5ipkhu67jG2eWMJF-C6_elcFdclUzYAmR9x_DrxTUdOCg9KEt_sQCbzyC5qb2NFy8JIJWcq8zmgWhT4XBr8WsGArR5lm3kQ1O2NSQjksEJi2OpclVY7wA/s1600/DSC_9732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypCojAUBmwSXJXxT-9s_86U5ipkhu67jG2eWMJF-C6_elcFdclUzYAmR9x_DrxTUdOCg9KEt_sQCbzyC5qb2NFy8JIJWcq8zmgWhT4XBr8WsGArR5lm3kQ1O2NSQjksEJi2OpclVY7wA/s1600/DSC_9732.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please hang in there because I have a ridiculously long backlog of blogs to write from the other things I have been up to. Lots of Tales of the City!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks for your loyalty guys.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Kind regards</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
BombayJules</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7l4_52En0_z_az1AEU1e7sWZhdHDnBJAC14MHPhWW72YLzPOruvdoYboKiz01W7tybyVLn0gfDHb4AXB-ouy94gVNUX09Yzgz1fRipkIZcScKaXv23yNWDxnPt53McAAOxZDOKF8lbzg/s1600/DSC00412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7l4_52En0_z_az1AEU1e7sWZhdHDnBJAC14MHPhWW72YLzPOruvdoYboKiz01W7tybyVLn0gfDHb4AXB-ouy94gVNUX09Yzgz1fRipkIZcScKaXv23yNWDxnPt53McAAOxZDOKF8lbzg/s1600/DSC00412.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of our lovely Mothers with Child.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-20440406266968410702014-01-27T11:31:00.001+05:302014-01-28T16:31:01.269+05:30Ubiquitous India : No 3 - The Hercules Bicycle<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Where would everyday Indian Man be without his bicycle? Sturdy, reliable and with an eternally long life, the Hercules bicycle is as much a packhorse as it is a convenient mode of transport.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7E7rzIGsYWWisO7nLWTurfCKi-zhKb2SQP5gIz9iSQYJ93O8nvtkuG3wG4tMz1GlB5Rp4tnAuTCQmDwql1EjmaO4l1ow5oSJs2mVc69XFbcz134MS8CaitMfH8XwJL-sJ8gzA13Ap3A/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7E7rzIGsYWWisO7nLWTurfCKi-zhKb2SQP5gIz9iSQYJ93O8nvtkuG3wG4tMz1GlB5Rp4tnAuTCQmDwql1EjmaO4l1ow5oSJs2mVc69XFbcz134MS8CaitMfH8XwJL-sJ8gzA13Ap3A/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+04.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The unchanging simplicity of design makes the Indian Bicycle a 'classic'.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You won't find a working class man riding racers, BMXs or mountain bikes in India. For them, the bike is ridden out of necessity and very rarely as a pastime. In fact, I think I have only ever seen one person wearing <i>Tour de France </i>lycra sports clothing, pedalling a bike for fun. But then you would probably be taking your life into your own hands, if you chose to cycle as a hobby in this city!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 20px;"><b><span style="color: orange;">"Cycle is a poor man’s transport, hobby of rich man </span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 20px;"><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: orange;"><i style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 20px;">and medical </i><i style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 20px;">activity for the old"</i></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Hercules Bicycle is so sturdy and reliable - that it is the workhorse of Mumbai's Dobi and Dabba Wallahs and all manner of delivery men. I love the way that it is also used - through a clever modification to the pedals - as a mobile knife sharpening station. In the city, it is the Lamborghini of the working classes - enabling their riders to zoom past the static traffic of Mumbai's choked up streets. In rural India, the trusty bicycle enables village dwellers to go from village to farm and from the fields to home.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jaidKlvf8OuRELsbD8v-lpdJwEmVCHMfUbMdXlhDNURc4IEg3_7eQMWAhqhIQWMhQNA8hBofB8c-aNQAf5V7UTQghhkzOF6PBHqcDabobzgF1S9X5JMTOaRaupQqQlvv3rV3wRR48jY/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jaidKlvf8OuRELsbD8v-lpdJwEmVCHMfUbMdXlhDNURc4IEg3_7eQMWAhqhIQWMhQNA8hBofB8c-aNQAf5V7UTQghhkzOF6PBHqcDabobzgF1S9X5JMTOaRaupQqQlvv3rV3wRR48jY/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+03.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The packhorse (tiffin deliveries)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been all over the country, and it seems that the standard bicycle model is roughly the same. It has an old fashioned (nay, 'classic') shape with an economy of design that has not changed in decades (much like India's favourite taxis - the Hindustan Ambassador or Premier Padmini). From my pictures, you will notice that these bicycles can carry huge weights - probably because of their reinforced stays and double crossbars. Due to the ubiquity of such cycles, roadside bicycle repairing is a 'profession' in itself and <i>punchars</i> can be easily seen to. Most of the bikes you see on the roads must have been repaired countless times, kept in families for decades or resold down the line on many occasions. You can probably pick one up for a few hundred rupees. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So what is the story behind the Hercules brand? (Hang on a minute whilst I get serious).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>The Hercules Cycle & Motor Company</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Hercules Cycle and Motor Company Limited was a British bicycle manufacturer founded in 1910 by Edmund and Harry Crane in Birmingham. The name Hercules was chosen to signify 'durability and robustness'. At first, Harry assembled the bikes whilst Ted cycled around Birmingham for parts. They went from making 25 to 70 bicycles a week within six months and from there on in, expanded exponentially. By 1914, they were producing 10,000 bikes a week, occupying a 13 acre site in Aston. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The brothers exported a large proportion of their production and by the time Sir Malcolm Campbell was invited to see the three millionth bicycle roll off the line in 1933, over half was being sent overseas - earning them £6m and the congratulations of the King. By the end of the 1930s, Hercules had already produced more than six million bicycles and could claim to be the biggest manufacturer of cycles in the world.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinO3CMmb4YMYbhA7PXjMDJIm22Syw6AaN0Bucnd6mXOYuRx46P6FPydFqY4dr48A_ftDsmTMD6rK3w95i-tyUYCkT7ilTvIW35KKs97fONEAlExUO9VYWn8nRzVkdO5Dv3uyp-me3B9_c/s1600/efc_ad056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinO3CMmb4YMYbhA7PXjMDJIm22Syw6AaN0Bucnd6mXOYuRx46P6FPydFqY4dr48A_ftDsmTMD6rK3w95i-tyUYCkT7ilTvIW35KKs97fONEAlExUO9VYWn8nRzVkdO5Dv3uyp-me3B9_c/s1600/efc_ad056.jpg" height="400" width="362" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sir Edmund Crane ("The Bicycle King") in the 1930s outside his home with a classic<br />
Hercules bicycle - you can see that the design has not changed in all these years!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Tube Investments</i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In 1946, the Cranes sold Hercules to <i>Tube Investments</i> for a mere £3.25m who then combined it with its other brands (including Phillips Cycles, Sun, Armstrong and Norman) to form the <i>British Cycle Corporation </i>subsidiary. Tube Investments (itself registered in 1919) had previously been the main supplier to Hercules - providing the tubing from which the bicycle frames were made. But apparently by then, Hercules had lost its understanding of the racing bicycle market - manufacturing its handlebars in steel when lighter alloys had become the fashion. Plus their bikes only had five gears when ten was the norm. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In 1960, Tube Investments also acquired <i>Raleigh</i> and merged the British Cycle Corporation with Raleigh to form <i>TI-Raleigh</i> which had 75% of the UK market. Raleigh itself had already acquired the BSA cycle division from BSA (The Birmingham Small Arms Company) in 1957. Sadly, the last bicycles displaying the Hercules name were produced by the Raleigh Factory until the name was eventually allowed to die in around 1963.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGo7c74JSpFubwm7GhJJ1nmNB00ThXE05zdPT1i3TiGRPtMZP1Fo3lZZjiquOfuToM-XSeaJHAYj_kIWGKGQbMOHNu5cQ_icSvzrnI2dXZS9fU0gLWFxJIIDEUu0BabwFWTxEo0CWxTY/s1600/efc_ad024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGo7c74JSpFubwm7GhJJ1nmNB00ThXE05zdPT1i3TiGRPtMZP1Fo3lZZjiquOfuToM-XSeaJHAYj_kIWGKGQbMOHNu5cQ_icSvzrnI2dXZS9fU0gLWFxJIIDEUu0BabwFWTxEo0CWxTY/s1600/efc_ad024.jpg" height="320" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tube Investments Comes to India</span></i></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But before the brand died out in the UK, <i>TI Cycles of India</i> was established by the Murugappa Group in 1949 in partnership with Tube Investments of the UK. It had been the vision of AMM Murugappa Chettiar to start a business that would manufacture a product 'for the common man' which they could sell in large numbers. Cycles seemed to fit the bill. The first Hercules bicycles rolled out in 1951 (then the Phillips brand in 1959 and BSA in 1964). Today, TI Cycles has the capacity to manufacture 5.4m bikes a year at three plants across India (Chennai, Nasik and Noida). During the 70s and 80s TI-UK divested from the Indian company - so that today TI Cycles is a 100% Indian owned company (but one with 'a global outlook'). The names BSA and Hercules live on today in India as trusted and reliable brands and that is what you see on the roads on a daily basis. They have even branched out their range of products to include mountain terrain and electric bicycles (see the BSAHercules website <a href="http://www.bsahercules.com/" target="_blank">here</a>). </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">So there you have it - the history of Indian's best loved bicycle in a (not so) nutshell!</span></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbwq4uP6mLsZYJ6ncmGMxfAFEhRPU4w0DhXYMB9tLNfAUrYjPW-Opkxxo3QN0NIHzqanIdzwtbQvVH-eReR0T9PllQDO-pGXtfLo9FoGqfIJDXxlTi278zTm7m0E3-mJExgcjRUcM_m4/s1600/ClassicCircle_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbwq4uP6mLsZYJ6ncmGMxfAFEhRPU4w0DhXYMB9tLNfAUrYjPW-Opkxxo3QN0NIHzqanIdzwtbQvVH-eReR0T9PllQDO-pGXtfLo9FoGqfIJDXxlTi278zTm7m0E3-mJExgcjRUcM_m4/s1600/ClassicCircle_600.jpg" height="400" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An old advertising poster (but not ridden by Indians!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmO_LUvMTRJg4Jc6RiTd9mkVodqocyrwMIP9-Nkt0lPXuVgEKThqMtnwcoPHR71pAicFBeOLfXGHyQPkJoMUpY0ZeE2QtgPKNuyN0bBIS62JinUB76F5uffwH_FK0pTY8uQ6waWUxW_A/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmO_LUvMTRJg4Jc6RiTd9mkVodqocyrwMIP9-Nkt0lPXuVgEKThqMtnwcoPHR71pAicFBeOLfXGHyQPkJoMUpY0ZeE2QtgPKNuyN0bBIS62JinUB76F5uffwH_FK0pTY8uQ6waWUxW_A/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+01.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This newer model has been jazzed up by its Dabbawallah owner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisg5MCWwuD3pVr8rFQjaDrzUlWisZrxsL84FEWAHC2bS_DAbMLviZWAeZhHOxRh7BNSHWNeuRCyOd7mPG_ytzcwrAS6fqA1rjqQ1HUb4MyE_e_F6uLxShS8vbOFKcJWZxn5dqENrNUoy8/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisg5MCWwuD3pVr8rFQjaDrzUlWisZrxsL84FEWAHC2bS_DAbMLviZWAeZhHOxRh7BNSHWNeuRCyOd7mPG_ytzcwrAS6fqA1rjqQ1HUb4MyE_e_F6uLxShS8vbOFKcJWZxn5dqENrNUoy8/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+02.jpg" height="458" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above & Below: It's amazing what you can get on the back of a Hercules!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVMqELMWDzGR5u0y37Kyr9MZ_tYj0_j7FyU7CMCPYgHEgY-LhQ_twuOUtO-Hc6Kb9tyGUVGlFTbKwDhPY2FFBpA-UBwK1tjglZYt-ycO67AFiJ6Y1VyTA5H9VyXzcv13mFaSyLRhbk_M/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVMqELMWDzGR5u0y37Kyr9MZ_tYj0_j7FyU7CMCPYgHEgY-LhQ_twuOUtO-Hc6Kb9tyGUVGlFTbKwDhPY2FFBpA-UBwK1tjglZYt-ycO67AFiJ6Y1VyTA5H9VyXzcv13mFaSyLRhbk_M/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+05.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7uQaNLYLQiVur5AJvQSmJ5GoWbxe5eIDu2xl5usIInseJetlUloYvFcBCVHtOFB4SsQtOrKX01vmkdMfY5tyqQM2qA1dheJ29GNZgcTECMv4ldbgz0cDtG6wDu1ZiD2KpR0meyHDeEc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7uQaNLYLQiVur5AJvQSmJ5GoWbxe5eIDu2xl5usIInseJetlUloYvFcBCVHtOFB4SsQtOrKX01vmkdMfY5tyqQM2qA1dheJ29GNZgcTECMv4ldbgz0cDtG6wDu1ZiD2KpR0meyHDeEc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+07.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZkV-JB6Xbf8SghaDV1F9dI8avN2YIj0MR8s5bRwiqZOHSPxYn5smSH4aFrzI5OdRiCxntWYJEaUpsr1KWajIYzlBxsg7et4rIL_75AEjhe1uFLTTVfnWCro8F7PMzZB7pL08B0PhB-0/s1600/IMG_3633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZkV-JB6Xbf8SghaDV1F9dI8avN2YIj0MR8s5bRwiqZOHSPxYn5smSH4aFrzI5OdRiCxntWYJEaUpsr1KWajIYzlBxsg7et4rIL_75AEjhe1uFLTTVfnWCro8F7PMzZB7pL08B0PhB-0/s1600/IMG_3633.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cracking balancing act!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha47HlotEDmq6cQQE97JHs3fHcTdicF-06XZaasfkWc9u2RohULXa0p25JrCzpnu5hkgzsEYLbNowAca9Yb_qx0MrcfgPuZCAgeXUJlPRz8lE0jY4DQbyZHi3x5_dzfJuAbVyl15rCrwU/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha47HlotEDmq6cQQE97JHs3fHcTdicF-06XZaasfkWc9u2RohULXa0p25JrCzpnu5hkgzsEYLbNowAca9Yb_qx0MrcfgPuZCAgeXUJlPRz8lE0jY4DQbyZHi3x5_dzfJuAbVyl15rCrwU/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+13.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxyU5H56FhBq4HwYTng7APT_TXWOKuEPNXO10xQuj1XEBp-fE3e-jCAXtMkhNSFtNkzsER_2JekYlaDdfa0Vnn-YwO-_5g0RnN9fSlytDpAh3CIRAu2eEG9Gb6WigiegvK_DolnpJ0kE/s1600/IMG_3626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxyU5H56FhBq4HwYTng7APT_TXWOKuEPNXO10xQuj1XEBp-fE3e-jCAXtMkhNSFtNkzsER_2JekYlaDdfa0Vnn-YwO-_5g0RnN9fSlytDpAh3CIRAu2eEG9Gb6WigiegvK_DolnpJ0kE/s1600/IMG_3626.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worli Fishing Village</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDuQheWa6P0XmyA4OGPAMlW7iPxPtLLxfWhvFnKRhNMQq_zZGTPuBWN5d0BDbgTXbjCpDk9rYFP4VDztE3utqqYPis8-xRwAevjrArympWAmIp8ZZvpDy-ek9xaUY4ts6xJgy8PHAu_0/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDuQheWa6P0XmyA4OGPAMlW7iPxPtLLxfWhvFnKRhNMQq_zZGTPuBWN5d0BDbgTXbjCpDk9rYFP4VDztE3utqqYPis8-xRwAevjrArympWAmIp8ZZvpDy-ek9xaUY4ts6xJgy8PHAu_0/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+06.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Classic' (Carter Road, Bandra)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3OZto7QNvrIqD2m1zMyZQLLn0ToMRRII3QNeTJpLqYQGdzSRACXTCGh9YjcguwJF8ZLaqOUjyGWZ_bAwwdHjaxYTbsiD6YcBKcfmJRjA2jeDH5HMubmFmE3Lps2oOJGVL9Hswq2aR_Zc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3OZto7QNvrIqD2m1zMyZQLLn0ToMRRII3QNeTJpLqYQGdzSRACXTCGh9YjcguwJF8ZLaqOUjyGWZ_bAwwdHjaxYTbsiD6YcBKcfmJRjA2jeDH5HMubmFmE3Lps2oOJGVL9Hswq2aR_Zc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+08.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Kollam, Kerala</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOVedlp9t77B-MtJqTkcL5g02CKpApvH9bz-tt8dV4OCVzxBSFlvm7Bb0d6k7hDh_R24PQ12aSrauxV7DCmstQ8gd-xTE2NplhvuA_2LOB6MN7UDZ9QQTN7f1z3oRWBpKcH59wGukeQw/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOVedlp9t77B-MtJqTkcL5g02CKpApvH9bz-tt8dV4OCVzxBSFlvm7Bb0d6k7hDh_R24PQ12aSrauxV7DCmstQ8gd-xTE2NplhvuA_2LOB6MN7UDZ9QQTN7f1z3oRWBpKcH59wGukeQw/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+09.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Between Trivandrum and Kollam, Kerala.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai3VmVbhyngB1mNkacYzE4Kn66pW2fYksACSKtQUzzZzCRs6kvMO5j7RNCdo_rUHlrfyxVqDUwF6gi3V5v-iH3_8Jos4bTxRgBBFZmHPrB7KNivwpSQG2id2xlUYmPxjyNDnk5zlns2w/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiai3VmVbhyngB1mNkacYzE4Kn66pW2fYksACSKtQUzzZzCRs6kvMO5j7RNCdo_rUHlrfyxVqDUwF6gi3V5v-iH3_8Jos4bTxRgBBFZmHPrB7KNivwpSQG2id2xlUYmPxjyNDnk5zlns2w/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+10.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farm workers park up their Hercules bikes in Aarey Milk Colony</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXUa8jtErOw0EyBy8WTEAkxEzh_sABWv0nyWBQoap74u4wTzeJvDsbr3xfUWXjdVbHu2HkI-GebF2_1P5gMoYoa_rfGJ4sK_h-eCIcZXZBEp44peNrIQzlAZSn5jdrD6IC9zd1ogkqxR8/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXUa8jtErOw0EyBy8WTEAkxEzh_sABWv0nyWBQoap74u4wTzeJvDsbr3xfUWXjdVbHu2HkI-GebF2_1P5gMoYoa_rfGJ4sK_h-eCIcZXZBEp44peNrIQzlAZSn5jdrD6IC9zd1ogkqxR8/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+11.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Bandra</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP17W5ACpiY6Sb2sG6IilBkUOM_sFq2n-rR-Yp0lV45I5tVRwK7sOcbdDgrivUqT7PEP1VKvpDLf2IRNrzd-WQ8SfLvP8iK992GcXwGn8taLn3tZJbWkc2OJtcsVCDuNqX4mokVvYvIbc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP17W5ACpiY6Sb2sG6IilBkUOM_sFq2n-rR-Yp0lV45I5tVRwK7sOcbdDgrivUqT7PEP1VKvpDLf2IRNrzd-WQ8SfLvP8iK992GcXwGn8taLn3tZJbWkc2OJtcsVCDuNqX4mokVvYvIbc/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+12.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfectly balanced</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdFNyKAtDyTzEXV1SyygPrrQvaV5AmtYOE1bGa8xASyXBbtbr3JnAGn05mj5DPi1-RRwzHxCGl2ycXwsc75kFMCnUXlDBecZgaaXdYxbOAGq6_3QDPAtxwXcEKNkPIMxJsp44-lFVcrw/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdFNyKAtDyTzEXV1SyygPrrQvaV5AmtYOE1bGa8xASyXBbtbr3JnAGn05mj5DPi1-RRwzHxCGl2ycXwsc75kFMCnUXlDBecZgaaXdYxbOAGq6_3QDPAtxwXcEKNkPIMxJsp44-lFVcrw/s1600/Indian-Bicycle+-+14.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Bangalore. I think this might be a bicycle manufactured by Hero - a brand originating in India (see <a href="http://www.herocycles.com/index.php?route=information/information&information_id=15" target="_blank">here</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCzp7hGkgzW9C0XURNfVtOMiRobY1xLxdEzALos8vk7_YmdxI4TkRzCYb5VB32VFq1LpVJpXAyQzbdUF6V0JCHIJRbU5yPSXnPue_WglOpJ_5zzXWJSexWPbdTfRiUaq3e5nJGhLPcMw/s1600/efc_ad029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCzp7hGkgzW9C0XURNfVtOMiRobY1xLxdEzALos8vk7_YmdxI4TkRzCYb5VB32VFq1LpVJpXAyQzbdUF6V0JCHIJRbU5yPSXnPue_WglOpJ_5zzXWJSexWPbdTfRiUaq3e5nJGhLPcMw/s1600/efc_ad029.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.1875px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.4em; text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7zQ3yUK_QfjEp5JbzUrpIanu_ZeQV5NbkktZydbJes0FTn9HAyIDpT7kpXCtXE8y-B87GkBo0Od4ml2oN0bVyJrdSXsfftc1DWmAq7KpPUM8_zV2KTW8WsOKAC8ZVcMcjodQfdLGFSE/s1600/DSC06211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7zQ3yUK_QfjEp5JbzUrpIanu_ZeQV5NbkktZydbJes0FTn9HAyIDpT7kpXCtXE8y-B87GkBo0Od4ml2oN0bVyJrdSXsfftc1DWmAq7KpPUM8_zV2KTW8WsOKAC8ZVcMcjodQfdLGFSE/s1600/DSC06211.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstrating the environmentally friendly bicycle at the 2013 Kala Ghoda Arts Festival.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Note: The bicycle is so ubiquitous that I did not go out of my way to take these photos - they are all from my archives.</div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6209917895693447861.post-73329518817561748892014-01-24T18:53:00.000+05:302014-01-24T18:53:44.209+05:30Another Fishy Tale (Khar Danda Market)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We recently had some guests staying and instead of taking them to see some 'normal' tourist sights, we thought that they would just love to see our local Koli fishing village on Carter Road. It was on this outing that we found a proper covered fish market - which I have to admit, I never previously knew about.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCtozedMoygebkTPWdtPiHPQL4pJ-6cYvhM3dCS5EldrzrhFpnzZ2DjkR4IYVZYt_RNfdcBTHUYp1gkhg1Fv7Ce7bbiPVECHfXJrP30Y3gUuJvdwtGIkucsnanqdA_ledY2hw_SMMWHE/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCtozedMoygebkTPWdtPiHPQL4pJ-6cYvhM3dCS5EldrzrhFpnzZ2DjkR4IYVZYt_RNfdcBTHUYp1gkhg1Fv7Ce7bbiPVECHfXJrP30Y3gUuJvdwtGIkucsnanqdA_ledY2hw_SMMWHE/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+04.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unbelievable to see egrets hanging around inside the fishmarket, waiting for scraps</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the nearby seafront - up from Carter Road is the Koli fishing area (I am now officially the best friend of the Koli Fisher Folk having been <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/11/holding-our-noses-at-sassoon-docks.html">here</a> and <a href="http://bombayjules.blogspot.in/2013/03/worli-fishing-village.html">here</a>!) - where not only can you find Koli inhabitants but also a large tract of land for drying out fish. Sometimes, when the breeze is just right, a heady mixture of fishy fragrance and fresh sewerage wafts over as far as our apartment building. I call it 'Eau-de-Mumbai'. Lovely.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A short distance away from the drying grounds and towards Chuim Village is the actual (and newly discovered) covered seafood market. Here, you will find the Koli Fishwives sat cross-legged on waist level platforms selling their produce to the locals out of brightly coloured plastic baskets. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course, these types of places are always a vibrant representation of Mumbai life and a great place to take photos. Our guests seemed to enjoy the experience - and unlike the fishwives of Sassoon Docks, these ladies did not mind (too much) having their photographs taken. They even obliged us with a few smiles:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4jMkRcaaBPGZi8QOYkoh8maM3_xg2BhAujWXwnUQNH70l2qtsRJ5LS2XDqT9GgMzFefXspEvf8dpqrCaCDrIx96KGjXFadTS8TRuFGt0Wo_7oNERLPAyr2ByJv2Voytw-_OhO5LkRh8/s1600/DSC_6081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4jMkRcaaBPGZi8QOYkoh8maM3_xg2BhAujWXwnUQNH70l2qtsRJ5LS2XDqT9GgMzFefXspEvf8dpqrCaCDrIx96KGjXFadTS8TRuFGt0Wo_7oNERLPAyr2ByJv2Voytw-_OhO5LkRh8/s1600/DSC_6081.jpg" height="416" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impromptu clothes-line (Koli dwellings in the background)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RqfoUnl2u0ZjVvTS0omDUxje7nWlza83EsvlWIbkOoPEnbajAWa6s2GOec31MoOgFiiICvPKZydnPprn6TnSHZzS6I53cgp_UmSnlkomLW-axq3hxV0p7bpGG_glVGducYsFmJkiKVU/s1600/DSC_6088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RqfoUnl2u0ZjVvTS0omDUxje7nWlza83EsvlWIbkOoPEnbajAWa6s2GOec31MoOgFiiICvPKZydnPprn6TnSHZzS6I53cgp_UmSnlkomLW-axq3hxV0p7bpGG_glVGducYsFmJkiKVU/s1600/DSC_6088.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drying out fish (not sure which type?) on horizontal rods.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYDFFJIuwYzSRQA_gZfQ4KB52XY30IMBnq_zu72gMaeyQdcV98iBjfDxaMOgyYDj00_Ew-OMwbPGvVce5Jc27HHTZQFcrpa7U43Y66cQb8SF0_Db2ZRCUiqoNxZr62AOxdc7W-yLMeSU/s1600/DSC_6089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYDFFJIuwYzSRQA_gZfQ4KB52XY30IMBnq_zu72gMaeyQdcV98iBjfDxaMOgyYDj00_Ew-OMwbPGvVce5Jc27HHTZQFcrpa7U43Y66cQb8SF0_Db2ZRCUiqoNxZr62AOxdc7W-yLMeSU/s1600/DSC_6089.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRELmMEarMa567-zZ6cLu7fy9NoDAWRmT7_X9DubRaTA9Jdh5SXwmM1qmJxetXMvz314QL4yQcgf1rlcolqf14SaCjV6IZ6Z9G_LvZ7LWhNMbaYnEKiTiStPiGEhqgNgI-VUQEJyPEAo/s1600/DSC_6090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkRELmMEarMa567-zZ6cLu7fy9NoDAWRmT7_X9DubRaTA9Jdh5SXwmM1qmJxetXMvz314QL4yQcgf1rlcolqf14SaCjV6IZ6Z9G_LvZ7LWhNMbaYnEKiTiStPiGEhqgNgI-VUQEJyPEAo/s1600/DSC_6090.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorting through shrimps and other small fry.<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFv0Qqz9OajviKs3M7HOnnYRtaccGAZQRtMR9Qc0z10QmgS9QAZa36bPXbKC1OXJdelNjROGKoAYR2aLlAtYdodCicz83jhQZFcSUaxpCaffR16Ml7T2i6s6d90Mv7rfVeEl0-8AzD70/s1600/DSC_6091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFv0Qqz9OajviKs3M7HOnnYRtaccGAZQRtMR9Qc0z10QmgS9QAZa36bPXbKC1OXJdelNjROGKoAYR2aLlAtYdodCicz83jhQZFcSUaxpCaffR16Ml7T2i6s6d90Mv7rfVeEl0-8AzD70/s1600/DSC_6091.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how the small fish are dried - spread out over a dusty floor! Peculiarly, I did not see <br />birds or cats trying to steal the produce.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jBuf8HIHcm2c6ZkXCjHeds4C9PFm0U-iNeh7aI9R5tz9ko2Y-MnnM3mHlMWF6qNz3LVYisV0yhWoylw_nIWrI5Esnfh8CmXsSBwhi8bR5tKIQxUCS8c1dJa0DCH6pOUUX_-z_FZSyFg/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jBuf8HIHcm2c6ZkXCjHeds4C9PFm0U-iNeh7aI9R5tz9ko2Y-MnnM3mHlMWF6qNz3LVYisV0yhWoylw_nIWrI5Esnfh8CmXsSBwhi8bR5tKIQxUCS8c1dJa0DCH6pOUUX_-z_FZSyFg/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+01.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to meet their makers (sorry, not a photo that will appeal to animal rights activists)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkfRc9PDe2HBoGUIo_hgjL-vS6wz8pXHOdQkrK5R5108-6GdF2cHV7tJumivPHtO2tubwtdzOetJNHFiAyxkiCj0BxAFTjZeS8QgDtEqQSHzF0L0007BQz0GN6b3b9BMwRU12hTbu_vU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkfRc9PDe2HBoGUIo_hgjL-vS6wz8pXHOdQkrK5R5108-6GdF2cHV7tJumivPHtO2tubwtdzOetJNHFiAyxkiCj0BxAFTjZeS8QgDtEqQSHzF0L0007BQz0GN6b3b9BMwRU12hTbu_vU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+07.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello pretty lady!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAz9tjqr7kvqki60hS_i3hGxEwSxoMZI2n8BNPR2dKy4uxHKdspSdUtWhA2HaLo5I1R6qge34c5SpcWllNAV70XOu_tEbKl5Zg7kCAiwJEVTPy-UAjYhdDNfHfYawEZ4bgXdD_is4_dA/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAz9tjqr7kvqki60hS_i3hGxEwSxoMZI2n8BNPR2dKy4uxHKdspSdUtWhA2HaLo5I1R6qge34c5SpcWllNAV70XOu_tEbKl5Zg7kCAiwJEVTPy-UAjYhdDNfHfYawEZ4bgXdD_is4_dA/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+11.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGMdvpb-h42F7DbU-ik5wpXoxdiXTZXZTLcbT531QehyphenhyphenqILjjWjRRWXDVhW5-fX6iV1BoYa1aODS8BoLwemr71HBYaccyImz40KcxmUshyq8LIZZTMuQVIOCFd_oTYK9ZpFeejExYKWU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVGMdvpb-h42F7DbU-ik5wpXoxdiXTZXZTLcbT531QehyphenhyphenqILjjWjRRWXDVhW5-fX6iV1BoYa1aODS8BoLwemr71HBYaccyImz40KcxmUshyq8LIZZTMuQVIOCFd_oTYK9ZpFeejExYKWU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+13.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surely the temptation is too much for this pussy cat!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA854-_qhTM8er356rX4Iujvnp2E_I7ggbmp03qwEzB71NWH-n_oCZfqR9yXA9selzue6WVUHznPrDkwpEd5jiHVSI4BI99ITRjCAcLEMyh8RFuZpIdIztMy8csH50b1gnkrRcsP9fNPA/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA854-_qhTM8er356rX4Iujvnp2E_I7ggbmp03qwEzB71NWH-n_oCZfqR9yXA9selzue6WVUHznPrDkwpEd5jiHVSI4BI99ITRjCAcLEMyh8RFuZpIdIztMy8csH50b1gnkrRcsP9fNPA/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+18.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWeo4kK0s7B7I2nA1F0bWxDmbJugwemFa1Rk-N3KVnZ_qec3lYERIISoHlgRrcHcpM1RoShiBLaMEjTrEuv-g-llMsqQ1-MzJ5wsx9VhG3a8wIU-Hke4_Zrrh-PuwnJdqB3vAxYlTZBk/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWeo4kK0s7B7I2nA1F0bWxDmbJugwemFa1Rk-N3KVnZ_qec3lYERIISoHlgRrcHcpM1RoShiBLaMEjTrEuv-g-llMsqQ1-MzJ5wsx9VhG3a8wIU-Hke4_Zrrh-PuwnJdqB3vAxYlTZBk/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+20.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mega-succulent prawns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdROt6I0oY2bNcJg9WDnbuXBJP8NBujpS28u6Esmm0AnXPKYHLYhfoH_atDM-EKrJ09nj3MeaQt9tVgyIq0umvQi0J_t9MF4DKSNEyYjDlNUDgkO1_j4RxhK65HCiTW45FII07qL0GzE/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdROt6I0oY2bNcJg9WDnbuXBJP8NBujpS28u6Esmm0AnXPKYHLYhfoH_atDM-EKrJ09nj3MeaQt9tVgyIq0umvQi0J_t9MF4DKSNEyYjDlNUDgkO1_j4RxhK65HCiTW45FII07qL0GzE/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+21.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the colourful saris of the Koli Fishwives</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYkeOiQl3f86qkLsrzZMDcXNPcN7fDEwnQxKulL4pdp3J52cEl9is7qVN68IeRIiCm5LxXYaI40q73n6pIchEYA_ITHmP0afWC3ZLGhd4RK3fGtFCYuHIVtkzeSz38aGfC7O3lR0l4Rk/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYkeOiQl3f86qkLsrzZMDcXNPcN7fDEwnQxKulL4pdp3J52cEl9is7qVN68IeRIiCm5LxXYaI40q73n6pIchEYA_ITHmP0afWC3ZLGhd4RK3fGtFCYuHIVtkzeSz38aGfC7O3lR0l4Rk/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+23.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish is skinned, boned and gutted for the buyer if so desired...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgIK56Qkh_BlEuleMqWEMPiQoXHeuhc7S6g3Soj31IIBRveMalP5hp3TiGAmCthuMzp-cmNXbqA43fGVj8e1OMhS9mkc25i81ns1K4aO0oQwpyHUq3KkUALxF7yNmGmhqq-JF2zMC7TM/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgIK56Qkh_BlEuleMqWEMPiQoXHeuhc7S6g3Soj31IIBRveMalP5hp3TiGAmCthuMzp-cmNXbqA43fGVj8e1OMhS9mkc25i81ns1K4aO0oQwpyHUq3KkUALxF7yNmGmhqq-JF2zMC7TM/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+25.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello, what a lovely smile!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8sYfSfp9bo50GuY7ifkdfSPSbZ-drmRF4JNzu5tlxik1dTRw9mphXZzeKm0BWX6FGEdFVF9vZBE2Hkv8xgHcGPtZlY5fFO7t4Zy7dAq_nYgDiW4-JyLgNq_Qq_Q42iBtz2wD-rWGerU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8sYfSfp9bo50GuY7ifkdfSPSbZ-drmRF4JNzu5tlxik1dTRw9mphXZzeKm0BWX6FGEdFVF9vZBE2Hkv8xgHcGPtZlY5fFO7t4Zy7dAq_nYgDiW4-JyLgNq_Qq_Q42iBtz2wD-rWGerU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+29.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In awe of seeing egrets indoors like this</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9Wt46kGm_8Z5H3kt4zQWBcUEPxgCE5OD1Gy2gk5v74jozX6H6FrqPun66cK29n-1xPVtoizVcX4PwQrK7FMHvXaP9wZA-Z2E-vZLhkFznYcgUKGr-uIOjIstB546VZctLPn8NJDkj4I/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9Wt46kGm_8Z5H3kt4zQWBcUEPxgCE5OD1Gy2gk5v74jozX6H6FrqPun66cK29n-1xPVtoizVcX4PwQrK7FMHvXaP9wZA-Z2E-vZLhkFznYcgUKGr-uIOjIstB546VZctLPn8NJDkj4I/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+30.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3hoyYqWCF3JEap-52zqHFnnuXcMtg8WNjE4TsRGD6S_njOOAAu73zvGdVdOndNFLzq-Ppq6Ds2A6hOPRouQ9Z4dPsVu7fLWLC22NUrI8otNH_qo8zlT47w-GVrfz3-aBeW2dlIprQWs/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3hoyYqWCF3JEap-52zqHFnnuXcMtg8WNjE4TsRGD6S_njOOAAu73zvGdVdOndNFLzq-Ppq6Ds2A6hOPRouQ9Z4dPsVu7fLWLC22NUrI8otNH_qo8zlT47w-GVrfz3-aBeW2dlIprQWs/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+32.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqdvqkxzMTlZuUiPa_u9kmBQUa1g6k6en-TN88xp0VA_-T8cNNkZbTByx95ilGw1iLDHMCJfTstnq9svtRhqzZTfn0PB3O44jy00g0HwETmB2I-WtlGZryl4LYQsDUwFFMO_J-n2Shlc/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqdvqkxzMTlZuUiPa_u9kmBQUa1g6k6en-TN88xp0VA_-T8cNNkZbTByx95ilGw1iLDHMCJfTstnq9svtRhqzZTfn0PB3O44jy00g0HwETmB2I-WtlGZryl4LYQsDUwFFMO_J-n2Shlc/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+34.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slippery When Wet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b-q9YxLHUhCo3gn4Z1odmfGcQpJb-jGEsdATv2kHHww9qGJ2n5LYxa2BL0yN5pEsvbksGW4WB_IbTsyI6kKug4jSHn3j9IKNWp1YIf5r16PpNtsRGRntBaYLhGwXg2F2RsBTELNhHZU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b-q9YxLHUhCo3gn4Z1odmfGcQpJb-jGEsdATv2kHHww9qGJ2n5LYxa2BL0yN5pEsvbksGW4WB_IbTsyI6kKug4jSHn3j9IKNWp1YIf5r16PpNtsRGRntBaYLhGwXg2F2RsBTELNhHZU/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+36.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhDjXOVQEFit26HhXmYU4yTDuY-lYh8p2eeA2QJrp7oFl0Naq6AbY3GxTw9ikNW-XsxLxknPdKcqiapK3laOeZFmjy1tiKxBKe7MEX6JxmN9ivZ5AEK5I5tY63xH_wODJoLe1uwy1QRgM/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhDjXOVQEFit26HhXmYU4yTDuY-lYh8p2eeA2QJrp7oFl0Naq6AbY3GxTw9ikNW-XsxLxknPdKcqiapK3laOeZFmjy1tiKxBKe7MEX6JxmN9ivZ5AEK5I5tY63xH_wODJoLe1uwy1QRgM/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+43.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opposite the fishmarket we found a man who looks after injured kites - <br />these guys were lined up on a wall outside his shop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHuq3-LtL38sjK_6ubkDPR9RXjdJqqYdOziz1JLOpDLj0RmLHTAvFd7yFmkguW0u0TZxt_O4QZS4uZhnuGWOKt8hJj3gdsiryMxwUn1hzB2TbaQfQ6MeV4y6VREdKo93DzZg7boEYvak/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHuq3-LtL38sjK_6ubkDPR9RXjdJqqYdOziz1JLOpDLj0RmLHTAvFd7yFmkguW0u0TZxt_O4QZS4uZhnuGWOKt8hJj3gdsiryMxwUn1hzB2TbaQfQ6MeV4y6VREdKo93DzZg7boEYvak/s1600/Khar-Fish-Market+-+57.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This poor Brahminy Kite has seen better days...but at least he is receiving some food and love<br />from this kindly gentleman (whose pic I sadly did not get)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I tried to find out some official information about the market on the internet but found very little indeed. However, I did discover that 'Khar' comes from the Marathi word '<i>khara</i>' which means 'salty'. When Bombay was nothing but a series of islands, the Khar area was in fact a marshland on salty sea water. Interesting huh!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
BombayJuleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13832768677477639407noreply@blogger.com10