Mamallapuram
We took a bus from Chennai to the seaside village of Mamallapuram. Renowned for it’s stone carving tradition dating back to the fifth century, the town is still home to numerous craftsmen earning a living from carving stone.
We were fortunate to be visiting during the annual dance festival which provided us with our first taste of Indian folk and classical dance. Just as enjoyable as the dancing itself was the accompanying live music.
There were numerous examples of the stone carving tradition to be seen including the Shore temple and the Pancha Rathas. After dusk the spectacular Arjuna’s Penance was lit and provided a stunning backdrop for the live dancing. A highlight for our stay for Matthew was recognising, then chatting to, the poet and Newsnight Review pundit Tom Paulin.
We celebrated news years eve with a delicious meal of sea food curries and our first alcoholic drinks since our arrival in India. The beach was the main site for the new year celebrations with bonfires, music, dancing and fireworks. The festivities were somewhat ruined for me after some idiot left off a firecracker right next to me burning a hole in my trousers