Well, the time has come to head back home. I slept one last night in the A/C cave, haven fallen asleep to the sounds of very loud drumming and laughter outside our door. The rituals of yesterday came with a guy and his drum who sleeps near the statue or sometimes on the roof.
I find it’s easier when I don’t join in on these festivities. They always want you to dance, stay up late, and eat questionable snacks. Besides, I was ready to complete my last night in this house so I can start pointing my nose towards home.
The festival activities yesterday were long and extensive. They start when the priest arrives and sets up and uncovers the statue’s face. He then starts his chants and prayers.
At times people gather around or participate, then at the end of that segment the blessed foods will be passed out to all. It’s considered rude to deny this, so I try and take it whenever possible even if it means giving it to Roy later or stashing it when nobody is looking. In general, the women participate most in the events so I usually end up sitting in the room of men playing on my phone or staring into outer space. I’m typically just sitting around waiting for someone to tell me we are doing something.
The most fun part of the festival for me is the dressing up. They love to see me in a sari, so today I obliged, at least until it got too hot and we made a plan to go shopping.
Leaving is always bittersweet for me. Although I love to go home and can’t wait to see my family, my Indian family treats me very well and is always very concerned and attentive to my well-being and for that I am eternally thankful.
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