After leaving the Maldives last night, we sailed north which then put us in the Arabian Sea, which is part of the northern Indian Ocean. I’m learning more about geography now since I’m not as familiar with this part of the world. They have a huge globe in the library (lighted) which is a big help in finding where we are going! We are starting to use it more and more.
Today was like going to class. Started with the morning bridge lesson, of course! Then Doug and I (as did all passengers) have to go through Indian immigration inspection on the ship. No lines, so that was good.
Then we went to hear our first explorations series lecture about India. The man, Shreeyash Palshikar, was a very articulate and interesting speaker. Today’s talk was on Hindu deities. It was very interesting – so now we will know what we are seeing with all the little statues in the shops in Mumbai! It was like Greek or Roman mythology – only Indian. I will share one deity story that I thought was great.
Two parent deities decided to see which of their several children were “the best.” One of their children was the god Ganesha (the one with the head of an elephant – another interesting story of how he got that head – but another time!). All the deities had different modes of transportation – usually riding on some sort of animal. The parents’ contest to determine the best child was to have them circle the world three times, and the first to return would win. Well, since Ganesha was transported on on mouse, he knew he would never win. So, after the other sibling deities had taken off, he went around his parents three times indicating that they were “his world.” Needless to say, he won!
Lunch was wonderful – a fresh fish bake. They served the fish they had gotten fresh from the Maldives just yesterday. There was swordfish (my favorite), tuna (2nd favorite), mahi mahi (Doug said it was too dry), and shrimp in a great sauce. There may have been one other fish, but I didn’t have it. They grilled all of them – it was a treat.
After lunch I went to another “class” that I thought was about Indian tradition and culture. I should have been tipped off when it was given by the gemnist who manages the exclusive jewelry shop on board. So, I learned a little about the history of Indian jewelry and how gold is important to all Indians. But it was not quite what I thought it would be.
After that I was tired of “going to class” so I skipped the afternoon lecture about Island Ecosystems. Instead I read my beach book and relaxed on deck. It was pleasant with a mild breeze to keep you cool (in the shade). I tried the sunny side deck and only lasted about 10 minutes before I thought I was totally baked!
It was formal night (again!!), with the theme of royalty. Later in the evening they had a “royal ball” where a king and queen were crowned. I just couldn’t get too excited about all that. So, after dinner, we just read more until our eyes closed.
P.S. I forgot to mention a day or two ago at sea that Doug used his birthday gift from our three sons and their families. They gave him a gift certificate for a massage in the ship’s spa. It lasted about 1 1/2 hours. He was so relaxed when he got back to the cabin! He really enjoyed it. It was a great gift!
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