News Archive - May 2007

Mothers' Union Eaton Bray with Edlesborough

On Wednesday, 14th March, Nigel Watson entertained the Mothers' Union with his talk and slides on India. Having been to the subcontinent three times on business, Nigel and his wife Georgina took a 'trip of a life time' on a tour designed by Nigel from New Delhi to Jaipur and ending in Goa for a few days well earned relaxation!

It was a journey of contrasts from the amazing, enormous, jewel encrusted, ornate marble palaces, forts and temples to the plight of the 'street children' who quite literally live on the streets without homes, schooling, possibly parents and no obvious means of support. Nevertheless, most people seemed happy, and the amount of smiles very noticeable.

The most beautiful building was, of course, the Taj Mahal at Agre, shown from many different angles, but also a 'Diana' picture with Georgina and also a happy 'together' one of them both taken at the front of this temple of love built by Mughal Shah Jahan (died 1666) in memory of his wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal. More towns, more buildings, all impressive. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, had magnificent buildings too, many based on astronomical themes, and the largest statues made of silver in the world - as confirmed by the Guinness Book of Records.

Travelling was by both train and car; the train having three classes, - 1st with individual carriages; 2nd advertised as having 'chairs' and, surprise, surprise, 3rd - no chairs! Passengers alighted from both sides of the train, with or without a platform!! Also interesting, travelling by car, as most drivers seemed to drive on the shady side of the road, in which ever direction they were progressing.

Nigel's photography is excellent and this was very evident when they reached Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary. Two trips a day produced wonderful pictures of birds, flowers, other animals and eventually an elusive tiger very well camouflaged by the undergrowth but seen clearly through the long range lens.

Then to Goa, and a more relaxed life style, very different from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Beautiful beaches, beautiful sunsets and lots of fresh fish which is so plentiful that it can be caught by just walking into the sea. The whole village becomes involved in the catch by using a large circular net and pulling it on to the beach, where it is cooked in the many food shacks on the beach and eaten immediately. No-one goes hungry in that region.

The twenty two members present enjoyed an interesting and informative afternoon.

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