Decidedly Indian

My days here are numbered, sadly. It is no secret that I am not happy about it. It is no secret that I do not want to leave. It is also no secret that I completely love India, and specifically, Mumbai. But, my mom and my teaching contract insist that I must return, so reluctantly, I shall, but trust me, it WILL be at the last possible minute.
With that, the last week or so has been quite busy with many activities. Last Wed. evening, I rejoined with Shanthala's HUM group. The topic of discussion that evening was my adventures here in India, and also the differences in Indian/American education. Easy topics for discussion since I have a lot to say about both! I can't thank this wonderful group of ladies enough. They have absolutely showered me with kindness and hospitality since the moment I stepped off the plane. I couldn't have done it without you all. I especially thank Shyamala for getting me on my feet and showing me around, Aruna for keeping me sane and connected to Mulund, and to Grija, any chance for non-veg. is a treat! I am not sure how I can repay any of you.
Aside from the HUM meeting, Somaiya College is in full "cutural forum" mode. There are many programs in place right now to commemorate the silver anniversary of the college and to recognize outstanding students. The English department has put up several literary competitions with great success. I am pleased to have been part of the poetry and story-boarding instruction. I am hoping that my fellow Fulbright friend Taiyaba (novelist) will hold a writing workshop in the coming week.
Last Thursday, I met my fellow Fulbright friends in Juhu for a night at Pritvhi Theatre. This small, sort of experimental theatre is located in Juhu and what a total treat. The play, "Me, Kash & Cruise" was a look at Bombay, a city that continually rises from "the dead." A city that is always "dealing" with its "interesting" politics, numerous terror attacks, riots, etc. The play was timely given the events of the past few weeks. The acting was superb and after having lived here for a few months, I could relate to much of the material. We also had wonderful Italian food and sangria (DelItaliano) in Juhu, a great night in all!
What else? I broke a tooth this past weekend and had my first adventure with the Indian medical/hospital system. I must say, I was completely impressed. I was able to get into the emergency dental clinic at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai immediately. I only had to wait for a few minutes and the problem was diagnosed quite quickly. I am able to have the tooth repaired and re-capped later this week for a fraction of American prices, and frankly, I was far more impressed with the level of service. I completely understand the growing boom for these "medical vacations" people are scheduling in India. Thanks Dr. Ria for your humor, sorry I squirmed so much and thanks Nitesh for making my tooth your priority!
This week, I am attending a wedding on Tuesday. A colleague of mine from the English Dept. is getting married. I am wearing a sari, and am quite excited about it. I will have more to say about all of this in my next post. In all, I am cherishing EVERY last second I have in this amazing city.