Places to Visit in India

Starting today, I shall be listing places that a tourist may want to see in India. Read on:

GANDHI SMRITI

This is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi and is the place where he spent his last 144 days before he was killed by an assassin on January 30, 1948. There's some sort of library/book store filled with books that Gandhi read. There are glimpses from Gandhi's life shown in mini-figures. Around the place, we read quotations from people like Einstein and Rabindranath Tagore re what they had to say about Gandhi. There are some pretty nice flowers in the garden and there's the pathway (complete with footprints) which Gandhi took to the prayer ground on the day that he died.

" I have nothing new to teach the world. Truth and non-violence are as old as the hills." - I suppose Bush or Saddam didn't read much of Gandhi, huh?

MUGHAL GARDENS

The Gardens close early on Sundays (about 3:30 pm) so the first time we attempted to go, we were not successful. We came back on another day and managed to get in - but were quite surprised to discover that cameras and cellphones were not allowed inside (don't ask us why). My boss felt quite disappointed and refused to go inside anymore. So, he ended up watching our things in Charanjeet's taxi. If all of you need to go inside though, there's a counter just before the entrance where you can leave all your stuff, bags included I think.

It was quite a walk to get to the flowers and for awhile, we were wondering if we were heading in the right direction. Then we got to the Circular Garden and the Long Garden where there were fountains, and trees, and all sorts of colorful blooms and flowers. It was such a relaxing atmosphere (after getting over the initial "shock and awe" of not being able to bring in a camera).

The visit was worth it. A lot like life actually. Not everything you like happens. Sometimes you doubt if you're heading the right way. Eventually, though, if you persevere and keep the faith, things should turn out bright, cheery, and beautiful.

More interesting places next week!