Badal, with his knowledge of the city he has grown up in, made our trip to Varanasi infinitely more interesting than if we had used a guide book or just wandered the streets, which in itself, is a fun thing to do.
Badal showed us the ghats and talked about their history. We were simply amazed that in the annual monsoon time, places where we were walking would be underwater. Further on, he nudged us toward a particular ghat where the oldest crematorium is. We were fortunate that a ceremony was in session and, as visitors that we had a chance to understand the sacredness of the ritual. It was very moving.
Badal suggested an early morning music experience for the next day. Our boat tour included 3 musicians- one playing flute, another tabla and third, the Sitar. We made our way across the Ganga, close to the sand bar where we were treated to a delightful concert as the sun arose. How incredibly romantic and beautiful.
Thanks Badal…you have a knack on knowing what your visitors would like to see. May you continue to prosper.