Faces of India - 9

Once again my photo journey to catch Faces of India continues.

Old city of Ahmedabad & its people ,once again caught my attention.

Faces of people residing in old city tell thousand tales. Here is Grandpa like figure indulgently observing kids.

tea stalls are favourite hanging place of people of the area.

"Baa" is going through morning newpaper.

Street dogs are common sight and looked after by residents of the area with all the love and care.

Vegetable vendors are always part of the "scenery" so to say!

Young girl.

Old man was waiting for someone to listen to his story.

Vegetable Market-Ahmedabad

Traditional vegetable market holds very special place in hearts of Indian people. Day to day need of vegetables are fulfilled by these markets. Atmosphere at this market is seen to be believed. Cacophony of sound, hectic parleys, haggling are all part of it. Its sound and smell are something special.

Scooter is filled with Green coconut ready to be taken home.

Shops are all traditional,old fashioned. Vegetable vendor either sits on the floor or on high platform surrounded by variety of vegetables.

Packed and ready to be sold.

Traditional weighing scale still rules.

Haggling is enjoyed by all. 

Waiting for clients.

"Masala", basic ingredients in Indian cooking like chillies,ginger,lemon, coriander are sold by vendors who specially deal in them.

"Masala" seller admires his own banner!!

Faces of India - 7 Through the Window

Recently I took a walk inside the old city of Ahmedabad. Passing through narrow lanes and "Pols" of old city one feature I took particular notice was of windows of the houses which lined these lanes.
Social life of residents of these lanes,poles  revolve around happenings in lanes,poles or squares they live in. Window is their viewfinder to this life. It is their link to the world outside their homes. Any new entrant to the area brings them to their window . People passing through are observed keenly,discussed  and of course welcomed with open warmth.

Interaction with milkman, hawkers also sometimes happen through windows.

Jumma Masjid (Jama Masjid) Ahmedabad, India Part-1

Located in the heart of the city of Ahmedabad, Jumma masjid or Jama Masjid as it is known, was built in 1423 AD by Sultan Ahmedshah,founder of Ahmedabad.

It is built in Indo Sarcenic style of architecture. One can also see glimpses of influence of Hindu and Jain architecture apart from Muslim one. In fact one can clearly see Hindu symbol "Om" depicted in one of the latti window as photo below shows.

Mosque had 2 shaking minarates which were destroyed in two major earthquakes of 1819 and 1957.

Intricate carving on walls and pillars are amazing and treat to the eyes.

Mosque has entrances on 3 sides. East,North & South.

3 sides of Mosque has pillared walkway. One walkway's wall is covered by stunning Arabic Calligraphy .

I have many more images to share which gives me excuse to continue the series.

Rathyatra, Ahmedabad

Rathyatra is one of the most celebrated festival of Ahmedabad,India.  Since 133 years this traditions is kept alive by people of the city.Rath yatra of Ahmedabad stands next to Puri in terms of importance.

Every year during first month of monsoon , according to Hindu  mythology,Lord Jagannath (Vishnu),his brother Balram and sister Subhadra ride their chariots and go to their uncle's home for vacation and return to their home. Rathyatra symbolises that journey. In Ahmedabad, around 2,00,000 people take part in procession. This procession halts in the afternoon at Lord's maternal uncle's home. And after lunch and some rest it restarts. The maternal uncle's home is situated (by tradition) in area called Saraspur in old city of Ahmedabad. According to century old tradition, people staying in this area provide lunch to everyone who participate in this procession. For this they do not charge as it is considered privilege to serve the devotees. Cooking by ladies of the area starts 2 days before. Every member of the locality participates in the festivities.Air of devotion is in the air which can affect most people visiting the area.

I was lucky enough to see going ons in the kitchen day before. Here are some glimpses of the same.

Spices are kept ready.

Puris (puffed Indian bread) being prepared.

Vegetables cut!

Many hands work faster.

Young and old all join hands to cook.

People enjoy the work.

Puri frying is men's job!