Delhi, India

Many people take respite on the porch at the Sikh Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most magnificent buildings in Delhi. They have come to worship (on Sunday), but also to participate in the rituals of living. Male Sikhs are identifiable by their turbans. Note the style (patka) unique to boys and young men. A gurudwara is a Sikh temple. [2011]

Delhi, India

Delhi’s Lodi Gardens spread around the tombs and mosques built by the Lodi sultans about the time Columbus was sailing west to reach the east. In the background is Sheesh Gumbad, meaning dome of glass. It is a tomb and a mosque. [2011]

Delhi, India

He is a sadhu. All over India you find these Hindu “saints.” They have renounced the world and all its pleasures and live solely in a spiritual dimension (somewhat like medieval Christian ascetics). Generally, sadhus congregate around Hindu temples, but this one was perched on the curb outside the Roman Catholic cathedral. The pink fabric probably denotes loyalty to a particular goddess. [2011]

Mumbai, India

There’s plenty of cheap labor in India.  That’s why many jobs haven’t been mechanized.  Porters like these compete with cars, buses, and trucks for street space.  Guess which one has the lowest carbon footprint.  [2011]

Mumbai, India

For the British, Bombay (a Portuguese place name) was the gateway to India. When King George visited in 1911, construction of the arch began. It came to be called the Gateway of India. Now, it’s a popular site on the tourist circuit and an embarkment point for harbor tours. [2011]

Mumbai, India

Colaba market in Mumbai keeps the neighborhood provided with everything it needs.  While the men run the shops, the women sit (and lie) on the street selling vegetables.  It’s capitalism modified by traditional gender roles.  Do you think they dress to match the fruit?  [2011]

Mumbai, India

Hi from Mumbai!  Welcome to Marine Drive, the essence of Mumbai’s waterfront.   High sun keeps the crowds away.  But, just wait until evening!  You’ve been reading about India’s emerging middle class.  Here are two of them, being as friendly as they can.  The West’s “Playboy” lifestyle has its appeal, judging from their T-shirts.  FYI:  Bombay is now Mumbai.  [2011]