As we were leaving Pune for Mysore the city was really gearing up for the big holiday. Lots of light and lanterns were already going up all around the neighborhood. I figured that by the time the holiday came people would be dancing for joy in the streets. Mysore proved to be more diverse than Pune - meaning that there are more Muslims and Christians. Consequently the celebration was a bit more subdued. We had also heard that the state of the economy in India has really put a damper on the festivities this year. Regardless, the fireworks were still going off for hours (and I mean hours) last night and the night before and the one before that.
For my birthday, which was on Diwali eve, we shopped at the large open air market which was bustling with people. All the hindus getting ready for their big family events. The aisles were mobbed! People stepping over each other trying to get to the items they wanted. I tried to take pictures but ended up walking around with my mouth open most of the time.
After the market we took a rickshaw to an Auyurvedic clinic near our hotel and got a scalp treatment/facial massage/herbal pack. It felt great and was a fun experience too. Lots of smell good oil were rubbed all over my scalp and face. Then a man massaged my entire head. I admit I was a little worried he would rub all my hair off my head. After the massage was the steam and herbal pack. We all left refreshed but pretty oily! Indians believe oils are good for you so they're not grossed out by them like we are.
For the birthday dinner we all got dressed up and went to what was probably one of the nicest restaurants in Mysore. In Pune I had purchased and Indian Kurta (traditional men's dress) so I got to try our my new wears. The food was delicious and we had lots of laughs.
The days seemed pretty magical. It was easy to feel that way being in such a magical place.
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