Jodhpur

I had recently gone to Jodhpur for a friend's wedding. The last time I visited was on a school trip in class 4. he he!!! Yup that was a long while back!!

The city still remains quite untouched unlike most tourist cities in India. Continues to have that rural feel about it with no malls, no Mc Donalds and the usual signs of the U.S influence. The main hang out joint is a place called "On the rocks" which is owned by the blue blood fashion designer, Raghuvender Rathore. It is known for its patisserie which unfortunately I cant vouch for coz it was closed when I went there.

Got the opportunity to see the Jodhpur Law college as I have a few friends studying there. Very chilled out place and perfectly blends into the township mood. The students are one of the few reflections of globalisation. Therefore they stand out or can be very easily identified in a public place. The facilities in the college are quite adequate but the one thing that all of them rave about and feel is a blessing is the broadband internet connection (ab projects ke liye information utarne ke liye kahin to jagah honi chahiye).

I went to the Meherangarh fort which added to all the adventure. They have this new audio tour by a company called Narrowcasters. I feel this addition was much required and helps you relish every bit of history that is embeded in the stoned walls. Also it allows you to go at your own pace and most importantly gives you the facts about the place instead of a guide trying to add his mirch masala.. The view of the city and especially Umaid Bhavan from the ramparts was breathtaking. It gives you a peek into the richness and grandness of Indian culture.

The Umaid Bhavan was magnificent.The last palace built in India (1969) has a perfect blend of modern equipment and old fashioned architecture which makes it unique with a charm of its own. The basic design reminded me of the Victoria Memorial in Calcutta. The wedding was held at the back lawns. The candle lit stairs and the expanse of well cut green grass with the background of the large columns and domes of the palace, made the evening stunning. Personally I feel it is one of the most romantic places to get married.....

Marriage seems to be one of those inevitable things in life, like going to school. It's part of the circle of life, so they say. People who are in it, most times are finding ways to get out of it or liven it up by re-kindling what they felt in the first few years of marriage. People who are'nt in it want to get into it or very often just conform to the norms. So like everything else in our lives we are perpetually running towards something that we dont have instead of making the best with what we do.

Anywaz enough of my babbling and getting back to Jodhpur.All in all I had a really nice trip and enjoyed myself thoroughly....hope to go back to meet my pals again... :)