Senses

I have just recently realized what I love so much about India, what is exciting and different from North America: the senses are enhanced . Its brighter, smellier, louder, and tastier. Comparatively, the senses in North America are more subdued.

Taste: The food is much spicier. I have been eating traditional Indian food, such as dahl, dosa, curry, roti, mamosa. When I first got here, everything I ate made my mouth feel like it was on fire, with tears streaming down my face. I have since learned to mix yogurt with everything I eat in order to reduce the spiciness.

Smell: I am sure it comes as no surprise when I say that India is smelly. Yes, it is often garbage and uncleanliness that makes it smellier than North America, but not always. As I walk through town, I walk by tons of food stands, and the aroma of different foods that comes from these stands is mouth-watering.

Touch: Something that was new and unusual when I got to India was the fact that they eat food with their hands. Traditionally you get rice, and then a curry or sauce along with it. Then you mix the rice with the sauce, make a little ball, then pick it up and shove it into your mouth. No utensils required.
Something else that has been unusual for me has been the closeness between male friends here. It is quite common to see two straight guys walking down the street either holding hands, their arms draped over each other's shoulders, or a combination of the two. As a North American, it is almost comical to see straight men walking down the street practically embracing each other.

Sight: As you will see in my pictures, people dress very brightly in India. As you walk down the street, you will see an explosion of colour everywhere you turn. It is lovely and refreshing.

Sound: India is noisy. From the constant dog barking, to the Bollywood sounding cellphone ringtones, to the people in the market bartering prices of items, to the call to prayer, it is never quiet. Five times a day, someone comes onto the loudspeaker and sings the call to prayer, a song that carries all throughout the town. The best part though is that the dogs sing along, either by barking or by squealing in a high-pitched voice.

I just love it!

Here are some photos from the Sunday Market: