Mahoba

I had 11 hours to kill in the tiny station of Mahoba, as this is where my connection to Varanasi left from.. at 1am, the joys of train travel! I set out for a walk around the village, and was confronted by a HUGE number of police with guns milling around. Rather a shock, but thankfully they weren't there for me, but to prepare for the local elections. Its seemingly a dangerous/corrupt affair if this kind of security is needed.

My desire for a quiet walk was rather quickly ruined (i thought) by an offer for a ride around town on the back of a motor bike. He seemed nice, and didn't want money, but as we drove around I saw a number of things I would liked to have seen. However, I got to see many other things that I wouldn't have seen otherwise, so it was ok in the end. Including a paan farm. Its a leaf here that is chewed by up to 75% of the male population, especially the muslims, and is mildly stimulating apparently. I tried a leaf and the bitterness was terrible... not a habit ill be taking up mum!

After the tour around, I was taken back to the mans house, and spent a very relaxing afternoon, playing games with his nephews- learning to play Carrom was fun! The family turned out to be Catholic, and I went along to Ash Wednesday service - which not only was my first time, but was all in Hindi, so I had no idea what was going on. The small church was packed though, so I guess it was good!

And the food! Amazing daal and channa masala with the family - well, the men, women eat after - and it was so tasty.

It was one of those experiences that make travelling great, namely, the kindness of strangers.