India is a mosaic of different religions varying from the ancient animistic beliefs of the tribal communities to the rigid orthodoxies of the Hindu caste system. I wandered through different degrees of spiritual energies, absorbing openhearted all that surrounded me with great passion and an observer’s devotion.
Delhi
Vivaha or traditional marriage in India, becomes for a man an important institution, a bonding with his partner not only in this lifetime but, supporting the Hindu belief of reincarnation, in all lives thereafter. I run in the direction of what is going to be the most incredible experience I have ever lived in the last few years…
My body aches, I am a wreck and still terribly jet lagged. Moreover, I need a suntan and I honestly could do a break from the city traffic, holy cows, and dust. I decide to have a look at the Oberoi’s recently renovated magnificent Spa.
This grand Mosque built in 1695 by the emperor Shah Jahan on a natural rocky outcrop, took six years and 5,000 workmen to construct at a cost of nearly a million rupees. It accommodates up to 20,000 people at prayer times especially during Friday prayers and on Eid, it looks like a sea of worshipers. Barefoot, I am climbing my way up to one of its minarets.
One night in Delhi has passed and I am feeling like I am missing something extremely important. Whenever I close my eyes and concentrate on the city’s energy, I can’t avoid connecting with a certain elegance present in its austerity, discipline and asceticism.
Commissioned by Shah Jahan (Taj Mahal) in 1639, it took nine years to build one of India’s most important building complexes- This seat of Mughal power encapsulates a long period of Indian history and its arts, its significance transcending time and space.