STREETS OF VARANASI: NOT LOOKING

STREETS OF VARANASI: LOOKING

THE STREETS OF BODHGAYA

MAITREYA SCHOOL, BODHGAYA

"Maitreya" translates as "loving kindness." This wonderful school teaches what they call "universal education," or moral principles, in addition to standard academic subjects. While Buddhist imagery is pervasive throughout the school and its grounds, these principles are taught without reference to any particular religious tradition. They are taught in order to help the students lead more happy and balanced lives.

MONKS AT MAHABODI TEMPLE

Many monks, from a variety of Buddhist traditions, are scattered throughout the temple grounds.

MAHABODI TEMPLE, BODHGAYA

The temple of the "Great Awakening," where Siddhartha found enlightenment beneath the ancestor of this sprawling fig tree. The pilgrims who came here appeared to be genuinely moved. We were generally put off by the insistence of folks trying to sell us merchandise. 

THE STREETS OF AGRA: PART TWO

More scenes from the busy streets of Agra. India is not easy traveling for those of us conditioned to the relative comforts of the West. For most of the people who live here, it certainly appears to be a difficult life. Whether or not they are happy, and why, is what we are trying to learn.