The large Indian cities here have modernized a great deal the last couple of decades. But out in the deep southern countryside where I presently hang out it is still old India, as we remember it from the 80's. I have not seen a white face since I left Bangalore. Neither have I been accosted by any beggers or hassled by rickshaw drivers. The Indians go about their traditional lifestyle, beautiful, warm and slow. Everywhere there are groups of people hanging about, chatting, eating and doing all the odd things that Indians do. Wide eyed children with happy faces full of confidence that all things are well.
Thali
The last several days now I have eaten all my meals off of banana leaves, traditional style. I don't even have to order from a menu because there is none. If it is breakfast I get idlys, otherwise it is Thali. A load of rice, and then lentils and curried vegetables are scouped on top, some chutney on the side and curd in a cup of its own, a papadum or two. Sometimes I get a spoon, otherwise I have to eat with my fingers. The food is always fresh and tasty, it is healthy, and no one has been murdered. This morning's breakfast set me back 15 Eurocents. Afterwards I had a chai so lovely that it was priceless, another 6 cents. Lunch was 60 cents, my room is 3 Euros.
The last several days now I have eaten all my meals off of banana leaves, traditional style. I don't even have to order from a menu because there is none. If it is breakfast I get idlys, otherwise it is Thali. A load of rice, and then lentils and curried vegetables are scouped on top, some chutney on the side and curd in a cup of its own, a papadum or two. Sometimes I get a spoon, otherwise I have to eat with my fingers. The food is always fresh and tasty, it is healthy, and no one has been murdered. This morning's breakfast set me back 15 Eurocents. Afterwards I had a chai so lovely that it was priceless, another 6 cents. Lunch was 60 cents, my room is 3 Euros.
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