I visited the state of Rajastan and ventured off into the capital city, Jaipur. It is called the Pink City as all the buildings in the old city are pink as a symbol of welcome. (It’s not really pink – more terra cotta) The main attractions are the City Palace, the Amber palace/tomb, and lots of shopping! Jaipur is known for its textiles and pottery. The shopping has been fun as I really love Indian fabrics.
However, the palaces were a bittersweet experience for me. These palaces are hands down stunning. The detail of the architecture is truly magnificent.
However, I can’t help but reflect on how much money is spent on these overly luxiorius buildings when there are thousands of poor and starving people just blocks away. Ugh! Why does this happen?!!
However, the palaces were a bittersweet experience for me. These palaces are hands down stunning. The detail of the architecture is truly magnificent.
However, I can’t help but reflect on how much money is spent on these overly luxiorius buildings when there are thousands of poor and starving people just blocks away. Ugh! Why does this happen?!!
As I read through lonely planet and other guide books about India, it is described as a country with great contrasts. 25% of the world’s best software engineers live in India, while 25% of the population go to bed hungry. Kids are dying of starvation every day, while others are suffering from obesity. The first female president was elected in July 2007, yet in some regions girls are still waiting entry approval into primary schools. This country has an incredible disparity that shines through like a sore thumb. This is SO hard for me to process!!
I was told that there are more than 500 Maharaja’s (Kings) in all of India. Each state has a number of them. For example, in Rajastan alone, there are 22 present. That means a lot of over the top palaces to house these kings! Of course I can definitely appreciate the beauty of the architecture, but it still bothers me how much money is spent building a palace truly for show when there are starving people all throughout India. Ok, Elana, shake it off!
Here is an album of my time in Jaipur.Click on the album below.
Off to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal next. Can’t wait!!
Glad you got there safe. Are you able to wear those pants you bought or will it make you look like a "loose" woman to them?
ReplyDeleteThe disparity can be overwhelming at times indeed! After a 24 hour train ride, tired, sweaty and covered in dirt we decided to go to a 5 star hotel to each and use their bathroom to clean ourselves :) We decided to take advantage of the wealth, while acting as we belonged in the untouchables! It felt so good to wash ourselves :)
ReplyDeleteTotally not related but I keep forgetting to tell you that a hankerchief is a wonderful device to have while in India.....soak with water and its refreshing, and cleansing at the same time!