Trek to Mahuli

Mahuli is about 70 km from Thane and the village is absolutely boondocks. The hills were half hidden by the mist and it began to rain

The trek actually begins from here although we had to walk a few km from the village

The foothills were absolutely lovely as you can see!

Thats my son Sounak with two of his mates. I could walk this road for ever and ever ..

Very soon we came to wade across this mountain stream

Before crossing the stream, we explored the area along the banks as it was so beautiful but lost precious minutes as the peak with the fort on top was still a few hours away

Crossed the fast flowing stream and started the climb

We came to this lovely glade and tarried awhile ..

and then it began to rain again.

Bit apprehensive with the kids with me, decided to turn back as it was getting late, the mountain path began to fill up with water very quickly with the rain 

The stream had also begun to swell ..

So maybe another time, another day!

A Railroad Journey

2000 km ..:)  September chill in the air, and an uncommonly bright countryside ... 

This is a station at around dusk. Favorite time of the day.

These are the western ghats, an extensive range of hills on the western coast. Lovely forests, hills and waterfalls. Old forts on mountaintops. Plenty of rain. Velvet green. Fantastic treks.

The journey was long and tiring, but wasn't without its rewards!

The Lake in Ballygunje

Been to Calcutta for 2 days and came across this Lake as I stayed next door :)

The last picture is that of a small island in the lake.

Govinda ala re ..

I have often wondered how Krshna has managed to occupy large portions of the hearts and minds of the Indians, inextricably woven into the Indian psyche. He is the son every Indian mother dreams of, the friend every Indian child dreams of, the lover every Indian woman dreams of and the King - philosopher we seem to need such badly in these troubled times

Young people celebrating dahi - handi when they try to break a clay pot full of  curd/ butter that is suspended high above. Prizes go for the highest tiered pyramids. News channels have been covering these events now ..

Some European expatriates have joined in the fun (PS - they are Spanish castellers, learnt later)

Govinda or Gopala as he was called, Krshna was said to be extremely fond of butter when a child and even more fond of stealing it from his neighbors' pots so that's where these celebrations could have their origins.