The train ride went smoothly and quickly, with 'chai walas' strolling through every now and then, accompanied with afternoon mood music from cell phones of neighboring passengers. As I stepped out of the air conditioned compartment, I found myself in a crowded station, surrounded by an air of humidity. Sounds of "Dada, eyi dike," and elderly aunties huffing and puffing enveloped me, as I made my way out of the station and out into the streets of Kolkata. I had finally arrived. Today marked the first day of my 10-day summer vacation in this city of joy, as it's called...
As we stepped through the bustling station jam packed with peopel, we made our way into the "Pre-Paid Taxi" line, and patiently began to wait. Soon enough, we stuffed our four hefty suitcases into the trunk of the bright yellow and black taxis, and climbed in, ready to embark on the half and hour journey to my Garia home. Snapping pics of ram lines, puchka stands, ancient buildings, along with designer stores, I passed my time quickly. Soon enough, we reached, only to be greeted by my aunt (or mom's twin sis), peeking out from the balcony.
"Eshchish? Aaye aaye..." welcomed my aunt, as we struggled to enter through the gigantic iron gate that marked the entrance to our home. I wrapped my aunt in a tight hug, ecstatic to be back in the familiar environment, associated with many childhood memories. I clambered up the steps to be greeted by my grandpa in the dining room, patiently waiting, and eating simultaneously...
The afternoon was filled mostly with chatter between the three of us (mom, aunt, and myself). Evading an afternoon nap, so traditional in Indian homes, we caught up with each other after months of being away. Plans of going out cut short, unfortunately due to the monsoon rains, that have erupted in this city as well. However, the rains did aid in bringing some relief from the humid heat.
The sticky and wet weather didn't stop me from convincing my mom and aunt to go out for an evening stroll. We began our walk through the always entertaining neighborhood, filled with street shops showcasing shining jewelery, children's toys, hair clips, accessories, colorful women's clothing, shoes, bags, and so much more! Not to mention the endless stalls of fruits and vegetables, puchkas, chaats, and the various authentic Bengali sweets. My head was literally spinning. We managed to complete one full round, ending the evening with a bumpy 'rickshaw' ride back home.
I can't wait to know what's in store for me in the next days to come! Until then, stay posted!
As we stepped through the bustling station jam packed with peopel, we made our way into the "Pre-Paid Taxi" line, and patiently began to wait. Soon enough, we stuffed our four hefty suitcases into the trunk of the bright yellow and black taxis, and climbed in, ready to embark on the half and hour journey to my Garia home. Snapping pics of ram lines, puchka stands, ancient buildings, along with designer stores, I passed my time quickly. Soon enough, we reached, only to be greeted by my aunt (or mom's twin sis), peeking out from the balcony.
"Eshchish? Aaye aaye..." welcomed my aunt, as we struggled to enter through the gigantic iron gate that marked the entrance to our home. I wrapped my aunt in a tight hug, ecstatic to be back in the familiar environment, associated with many childhood memories. I clambered up the steps to be greeted by my grandpa in the dining room, patiently waiting, and eating simultaneously...
The afternoon was filled mostly with chatter between the three of us (mom, aunt, and myself). Evading an afternoon nap, so traditional in Indian homes, we caught up with each other after months of being away. Plans of going out cut short, unfortunately due to the monsoon rains, that have erupted in this city as well. However, the rains did aid in bringing some relief from the humid heat.
The sticky and wet weather didn't stop me from convincing my mom and aunt to go out for an evening stroll. We began our walk through the always entertaining neighborhood, filled with street shops showcasing shining jewelery, children's toys, hair clips, accessories, colorful women's clothing, shoes, bags, and so much more! Not to mention the endless stalls of fruits and vegetables, puchkas, chaats, and the various authentic Bengali sweets. My head was literally spinning. We managed to complete one full round, ending the evening with a bumpy 'rickshaw' ride back home.
I can't wait to know what's in store for me in the next days to come! Until then, stay posted!
Hi arushi ur blog is very cool and pleasant like early morning atmosphere. The english is very comfort to read and understand. I am very excited to read all ur travel book.
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