A walking tour this weekend yielded much about India’s history and culture. Muslim invaders from Persia came in search of silks and spices during the 10th century. Upon conquering Qutab Complex, they destroyed the Hindu temples and erected this Tower of Victory. They ruled for 600 years.
Indians are grateful to the British who arrived in the 1600’s and chased off the Muslims. The British also were in search of spices, but unlike the Muslims, they preserved the local culture and religion.
A hot, crowded bus ride took us to the next location.
The Baha’i faith is an independent world religion focused on the oneness and wholeness of the entire human race. This Lotus Temple is one of only seven temples worldwide. Visitors to Wilmette, Illinois (north of Chicago), may be familiar with the Baha’i House of Worship along the shores of Lake Michigan.
This Persian-designed Tomb was commissioned by the wife of Emperor Humayun in 1570 as a gift to her husband. It’s dedicated to love and peace. Sixty years later, their grandson utilized this design to build the Taj Mahal some 200 kilometers away in Agra as a gift to his third wife. This Muslim mausoleum is known as the “Baby Taj.”
An auto rickshaw provided transportation to other sites around Delhi.
The India Gate was inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and was built by the British as tribute to the 90,000 Indians who died fighting for England in WW I.
This visit to the Hare Krishna temple was the highlight of my tour. ISKON is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.
Hinduism is difficult to define by western standards. It’s an umbrella term encompassing a traditional way of life, which is broadly defined. Krishna, Sikh, Jain and Buddha all come under this Hindu umbrella. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna who lived 5000 years ago.
Krishna is the Lord of practical values. His devotees follow the mantra: First deserve, then desire.
I enjoyed the Hare Krishna chant and found it very soothing and relaxing. This tour made me realize that India’s culture is completely centered around religion. Indians are humanitarians at their core. They are open and accepting to all people and all religions.
After the tour, I wandered into INA market.
This aisle leads to what I’ll call “Butcher’s Row.” Stop now if you have a weak stomach.
Although 25% of Hindus are vegetarian, that means 75% are not. These chicken are in a cue.
These chickens are going “behind the shed.”
This man is rearranging his fish display
There was a continual chopping sound at this counter.
And the final trims were skillfully managed with knife in toes.
Pork is also available.
That’s why these cows are smiling. The cow is an integral part of sustainability and is considered mother of life. The cow produces milk / butter and dung (for fuel). Cows are used to plow the field and their urine is prescribed as an antibiotic. Like the sun, you can’t live without the cow. Enjoy your week. ts