After a weekend of preparing lessons and having group meetings we were fully prepared and eager to teach, which proved successful. Communication is made easier now we know 'chup veho' (quiet) for the little ones.

Midweek we were invited to lunch with the locals of a leaf! Daal of a leaf- what an experience! The whole community came to pay respects for the anniversary of a man who had died in the village the previous year. The country may be heavily stricken by poverty; but the cultural atmosphere in the community presents unity within family’s. Whilst being here we may be interpreted as givers rather than takers but we always want more; and are never fulfilled.

In India people accept the caste there family names fall into and live with their health and happiness; at times its hard to deal with the injustice because it can become so frustrating.

Since being in India I've found you are either accepted or your not; but either way curious eyes always stare. Acceptance is alike being famous at home, random people will give you their child and take pictures or you and you will be addressed as madam; by now I’m sure all 46 of us are on mantelpieces all over India.

At first this was one of the most intimidating things to encounter but now its become normal.

A perfect Saturday back home- shopping and going to the spa turned out to be a painful and stressful day! Entering the spa we were told to 'get in their and take your clothes off' only to be distracted by the masseuse entering casually and confused with the idea that I did not want to remove my bra! To my surprise what was meant to be a relaxing massage for the equivalent of £1 turned out to be the opposite. This was a complete cultural shock to us considering women do not display ankles in public!

Media ads are also surprising as they are surprisingly sexual and erotic, reinforcing romance and passion. India is in love with the idea of men wooing women with flowers and soppy songs.

For me 3 weeks of Indian food is all getting a bit much, I’m reassured by many people that Indian food has a vast range but I seem to be seeing only rice, potatoes and chapattis; a basic hot bread that is perfectly rolled into a circle, easier said than done. We attempted to do them at mummy Singh's home but she compromised with shape! Unlike back home where you can pop to the supermarket for just about any type of food at any time of day or night!

The monsoon has began; on Tuesday we woke up to a dark thick cloud looming above the house; considering monsoon season happens every year the country does not seem to adjust or prepare for this.

I hope everyone at home is well, I’m hearing of good weather! Keep in touch it’s always so good to hear from home and you can always write to me at the house HINT HINT!

Miss Jennifer McNicholas

IDEX HOUSE,
WATER TANK ROAD,
BANDLA,
PALAMPUR
HIMCHALCN PRADESH
176061

INDIA