Yesterday morning I awoke to the call to prayer in the distance. Hyderabad is a mix of Muslim, Hindu, Buddist and Christian; more diverse than most areas of India, I am told. This makes for interesting sites in the streets and an assortment of local garb. The women manage to look beautiful to me even if fully covered. The Muslim women though in black may be trimmed in colorful jewels and wearing high-heeled shoes that still draw attention. The Hindu women covered in colorful saris may have Henna feet the color of the dress. And shopping for a sari makes one understand the enchantment of this garb. The colors, designs, and textures of fabric are alluring. Though no purchase yet you may see me at the next event in full regalia. The remaining wear Salwar Kameez, long shirts, loose pants and some even in jeans. Most men in the city are dressed more in western wear but a few don longhis.
The languages in the background also add to the diversity. The people of Hyderabad speak Telegu, Urdu, Hindi and English and seem to choose one or the other depending on religion and the situation. Each state has its own language. At this early stage of my travels in India it is still a mystery to me how much there is commonality in communication. When trying to find the exit to Golconda Fort Monday English did not serve me well. Hindi seemed to be the language of choice for several that were queried before a young man responded to my confused look and question. As we travel south and into the country side the languages will change, Hindi will still be more a common denominator but one still travels with ease so far relying only on English.
This leg of the journey includes overnight train travel to Hospet and a drive to Hampi. The story of Hampi will follow in future entries but arrival to this lush rice growing area was promising. As not unexpected the train was almost two hours late departing from Hyderabad. Though due to leave at 9:15PM we did not pulll out of the station until 11:00PM. Many would say "that's India", but quite frankly it is not a big surprise to be that delayed from St. Joe to Chicago on the Amtrak. I suppose one might then say "that's Amtrak." The train has a culture of its own with varied means of travel from first class sleeper car to coach accomodations with no air. We traveled second class, air conditioned, sleeper coach and made our bunk beds as soon as sheets were distributed. Quite frankly I slept like a baby from 12:00 midnight until 6:00AM and if there was noise in the background my family knows I am not a stranger to snoring. Years of this stemming to family of origin just means I see the night time noises of others as white noise. That is probably the case when others are speaking another language as well. I have no clue what I am missing! Once awake in the morning the men pulled out there thermoses of chai and the serious discussion began. It would be fun to see the train come to life but the stop for Hospet was soon.
Sites and sounds of Hampi await tomorrow.....
