India is mental. From the moment you step out of the airport, a wave of smells, sounds and sights that you haven’t experienced before hit you and stay with you until you touchdown back home. Our first week was spent in the state of my ancestors, Gujarat. We visited my grandparent’s places of birth and the villages they grew up in, as well as checking out legendary temples and towns such as Dwarka and Somnath, steeped in history and tradition.
Following the week in Gujarat, we headed to Delhi. Delhi’s official population is around 20 million people, and at times it seems like all 20 million are heading towards the same spot on the same 3-lane highway. Places like the Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk seem completely overwhelming with the amount of people in one place, but there are also quieter more cultural spots within Delhi. Unfortunately we were only there for a couple of full days, so we only really scratched the surface of Delhi, but more time is definitely required to see the more cultural side of this beautiful city.
From Delhi, we headed to Haridwar and Rishikesh, two towns that are known as the gateway to the Himalayas. Situated along the River Ganges, both of these towns hold great religious significance for Hindus. The River Ganges is viewed as a goddess, and people come to visit these riverside towns to bathe in and offer prayers to the river, to wash away any sins and seek blessings.
Our time in India was far too short. There were so many new sights and experiences yet I feel we barely scratched the surface of this amazing country. I can’t wait to go back to explore and shoot even more!