Today we visited a Tibetan settlement in Dehradun. The feel of this place was very different from that of Dehradun – cleanly swept streets, gardens, Asian-like architecture. Obviously, the people living here took great pride in their culture and tried their best to preserve it. The representative who welcomed us was very friendly and hospitable. He showed us around, first taking us to the textile factory, where a bunch of women were weaving colourful bags and rugs, then to a room where incense was being made. We also paid a visit to the school, where the children proceeded to sing us some Tibetan songs. This was a touching moment for many students. Four students felt sick at this point, so they were allowed to stay in the settlement and partake in the weaving and incense-making. The rest piled in the jeeps and traveled to Mussoorie (which to me sounds a lot like
- Jonathan
By today the first wave of sickies had overcome the worst of the “Delhi Belly”, so we had a very relaxing and fun day.
First we went to a Sikh temple, Ponta Sahib, in Himanchal Pradesh (a neighbouring state). The people were very welcoming to us even though we are foreigners. They welcome people of all religions and make sure everyone is fed while they visit. Next we went to small lake and rented paddle boats for a calming tour of the area. The calmness eventually turned into bumper boats, but don’t worry parents, we were all wearing life jackets.
After a breat in Vikasnagar for lunch, we did some more sight-seeing to a big rock and an ancient horse sacrificing place. A highlight of these places was a mango orchard that walked through. There we finally answered a question that was on all of our minds: “How many SIHIs can you fit in a mango tree”? You’ll have to wait for the pictures to find out!
Overall, a great bonding day, kudos to Nishu for an awesome Punjabi soundtrack!!
-Madeleine
First and foremost I would like to say hello to everyone reading this! I have been appointed to write about May 9ths adventures! So I shall begin by saying that May 9th was the last day in Vikasnagar before we left for Chakrata! We had a special visit from very honorable guests on that day! Doctor Leman and his family joined us in S.M.T.A. He shared with us the historical background of Medical practices in
-Afrousheh
Finally at Chakrata where we will be spending the next 20 days. The drive here was supposed to be 6 hours but thankfully it turned out to be only 4 hours. The view was amazing: mountains, valleys, lots of greenery and blue skies! We were quite excited about our stay admist the Indian Himalayan mountains for almost a month. We are completely surrounded by mountains, that have never-ending terraces with all sorts of crops: pototoes, rice, wheat.. the list can go on forever. There are all shades of green here!
We are staying at the SMTA hostel in a village called Jakhadar. We arrived as the primary school just ended. Little children in their red and white uniforms greeted us with great delight. After unpacking, we spent our afternoon on the roof of the hostel admiring the beauty of the mountains. I cannot believe how picturesque it is here. I feel like the mountains and trees we see is like a backdrop, a painting, but in fact, it is quite real! We have been basking in the sun on the terrace, and absorbing the sounds of the life around us.
Later that night, Dr. Sachin led us up a nearby mountain to see the sunset. We were a few minutes late, but we all found a comfortable spot and were told to simple listen to the sounds of the sunset! Its astonishing how well sound travels here.
After dinner we got right into our Appreciative Inquiry, starting with mock interviews with the SMTA staff. For the next 20 days we will be learning about the Jaunsari people, a tribe that lives in these mountains. We will interact with them to understand their traditions, culture and way of living, with a specific focus on women’s health, the use of traditional medicine and perspectives on disability. As part of the module, we will by foot visit atleast 8 villages, interviewing villages, teachers, priests/pandits, midwifes, women, men, villagers, doctors, and children. We have to make at least 15 visits for the 20 days we are here! We will definitely come out of this experience being more physically fit if anything! (Way better than the Pulse!!!!!!!)
The boys have their own quarters, and so the girls. We live simply. Have cots with bedding to sleep on, indian style toilets and bathing facilities. It feels like a long sleepover, especially in the girls room. We’re having lots of fun and its only the start!
What I have learned in the mountains: There is noise in silence…
Peace out!
Mohini
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