A visit to Parvati Temple and Saras Baug in Pune

Tiki at the Parvati Temple complex in Pune

It has been both fun and enriching to be with Tiki during this time in India. 

Even on the couple of times when we've had a guide at a tour site, Tiki usually knew more than the guide did. 

When we're at a museum or other cultural or religious site and I'm reading the description of something, Tiki will come up and start putting the whole thing in context, referring back to her own experience of growing up in India and her understanding of Indian history, politics, culture and religion.  What was simply interesting at a superficial level immediately becomes much more meaningful.

Tiki buying flower for an offering at the temple

Marathi is the language spoken in the state of Maharashtra where Pune is located, though many people speak both Hindi and English as well.  Since Tiki speaks Hindi, she is the one who normally gives the rickshaw drivers directions on where we want to go.  What a huge help for us!

A temple at the Parvati complex

Above:  Just like in Mexico City at the Basilica, children often rush over to practice their English and are eager to pose for a picture.

Women we met on our 10-minute walk from Parvati temple to Saras Baug

Below:  The temple at Saras Baug