Bhubaneswar

 My days are filled with stories to share. If you are a writer, a photographer, or any artist for that matter, and you ever find your creative juice well is drying out, go to India! Even the most mundane encounters are so incredibly fantastic and colorful. As I adjust to living in this vibrant and rich culture, I find myself constantly challenged to develop new neuron-connections in my brain to fathom it all. I certainly find no lack of stimuli for laughter, madness, compassion, despair - the list goes on. Venturing out in the world with any number of errands to run turns into an ad-venture. I could write a all book, for instance, only on my encounters with the cow-beings. (they sort of have a status of senior citizens, and they move like one too; very slowly an carefully).

Today I received an Ayurvedic massage. You would never guess how many masseuses I had attending me...Four!! Ladies of course. They are very careful here to not mix genders in such delicate situations. At first I thought it will be too much, (which is a theme I constantly find myself 'ADJUSTING' to. Most everything is 'TOO MUCH'). They were surprisingly coordinated with each other though, working in perfect unison like a boat rowing crew. WOW. It was incredible. I didn't think anyone will believe me...so here are the photos of my lovely crew and the traditional wood massage table. It only cost me $18 by the way...which is more then you usually pay. I think standard massage is between $5-$10.

I've been here for two months now, and most of my time is dedicated to Odissi dance study, and I occasionally perform. I take classes morning and evening most days. It's often seems like I spend the time in between to recuperate and prepare for my next class.

Now, when the weather is ideal, it is when many Odissi dancers flock into town from all over the world to recharge with Odissi inspiration. Taking intensive courses, visiting the numerous Ancient Temples which inspire Odissi, and taking part in the many Dance festivals that crowd the city halls through out winter. I live in a house with several such Odissi wander girls from Europe and Japan, and enjoy sharing our common passion and interests.

Most of the time I can't believe how fortunate I'm to be able to spend this winter dedicating myself fully to Odissi dance in the place of its origin. Having a break from family and work responsibilities. Having this 'freedom-window' in the middle of life is such a blessing and I'm deeply grateful. Yet, sometimes I forget how special it is. I get caught up in the day to day tedious activities. After all I still need to make my food, wash my clothes
(by hand, no washing machine...) and deal with my various inner conflicts.

At first glance, Bhubaneswar seems like any other city in India; busy, noisy and dirty...yet Bhubaneswar mean the abode of the Gods, and it is filled with such monuments that reflect divine beauty and profound peace. Whenever I get the chance, I ride my bicycle (or cycle) to one of this incredible ancient temples that are awe inspiring and are inviting one to rest in their graceful and peaceful grounds.

There are also several parks, meditation centers, and exquisite shops and restaurants that I frequently visit. I feel very lucky to be able to steep in this place that has Odissi culture embedded in every facet of it's existence.

I uploaded my Orissa photos as well as my London - Israel - Paris photos onto Picasa:

http://picasaweb.google.com/shaktibhakti/Orissa2009#

http://picasaweb.google.com/shaktibhakti/LondonParisIsrael2009#