Random - Neem leaves

Hitch-hiking to the Sunderbans

Before landing in Kolkata, Sunderbans was on my mind. Finally, the idea materialised into a trip last weekend (24th Oct). Thought of having some fun in the travel, so showing the finger to packaged tours, I went hitch-hiking :)... The road took me first on a local train, then across a river on a flat rickshaw, to the next stop on a "auto" and then to the final destination (Pakhirala) on a "van". 

These are the flat rickshaws which carry "affluent" passengers across the river in low-tide conditions. Every-day commuters do not use these but just wade across the thigh-deep mud and river. Tried it too, but two early slips convinced me to take the "affluent" carrier service.

These are called "autos" - sturdy old cruiser bike-fronts and engines fitted to flat rickshaws. Apart from these improvised carriers, I did not see any cruiser bike there. Do not laugh, but these are called "vans". I tried a lot to understand the reason, but the origin of this term was lost. I just know that the ride was one of the most enjoyable I have had.

Serenity @ Hooghly

Street seduction :P

These are called jalebis and are an awesome sweet treat. I love them best while they are hot and with ice-cream - but you will never complain even when they are alone :) .. Got this shot on the streets of Kolkata, near Dakshineshwar Kali Temple.

Contrast

A street lamp against the evening sky

Roadside Sweeties @ Kolkata

at Kolkata,I can safely say that 'sweets will follow you', at least during the festive seasons. Here, you see a man preparing the much loved Gulab Jamun - now with such open temptation, why wont the sales go up?

Durga Puja @ Kolkata - the collage