The Loving People of Kolkata: The City of Joy

My trip to Kolkata has a lot of learnings about the history and culture of the people known as 'Bengali.' It was the former capital of India under British rule until they transferred the Administrative center to New Delhi to make it the new money. It was just a recent past (2001) when Calcutta was changed to Kolkata.

The city is hot and humid in summer, considering it is located in a coastal state surrounded by seas and lakes. The weather might be unfavorable to some, but I have the tolerance for its extreme; my country, The Philippines, could even get hotter throughout the year. 

Since Kolkata and West Bengal are blessed with bodies of water, they are lucky to have fishing as one of their sources of livelihood. Bengalis love to eat fish, except for some who become pure vegetarians. 

The fishing industry is quite good in West Bengal and is India's leading fish-producing state. Most of the Bengal population eats fish, just like some of the coastal states of India, like Maharashtra (capital, Mumbai), Bihar, and the state of Kerala in the south. 

Kolkata may be one of the most populated cities in the world, but the population density is lower than I thought. It is relatively quiet compared to the cities of Delhi and Mumbai. And later, I have known that people in the town only travel a little for shopping, outdoor fun, and other activities. Some of the locals would need to think of how big and progressive the kind of city they have is. Some would even think of Kolkata as a typical village with slow-paced living. 

There are few forts, tombs, and monuments in Kolkata compared to Delhi, but the former British Raj has built impressive historical infrastructures. 

I have seen the magnificence of the Victoria Memorial, built in honor of Queen Victoria of Britain. It is somewhat similar to the architectural design of the Taj Mahal in Agra with white marble and Mughal design. The structure is beautiful from afar, and the lawns and garden are pretty and well-maintained. 

The Victoria Memorial

Near the Victoria Memorial is 'Fort William,' which was built as a military headquarters and still serves its primary purpose now. Adjacent to it is the Race Course, which hosts one of India's most significant horse race events. It used to be the pastime of the elites during the British regime, but now it is open to everyone. 

The Queen's Way Street Park offers a large playground for everyone and a favorite place for cricketers. It is a pleasant and spacious park, and some statues of built-in bronze are visible. The street was named to honor a Queen's visit to Kolkata on the way to the Victoria Memorial. 

These are just a few of the many good places to visit in Kolkata, and I am grateful that even for a short period, I have witnessed the place's grandeur. What I appreciate most is the history I've learned about the incredible architecture and sites. It is not just what you see that will move you; it also has some stories to tell back in time. 

Kolkata is making progress and faster development in terms of the local economy. Both residential and commercial buildings are on the rise, particularly in the reclaimed area of the northeastern side of Kolkata.

Due to the lack of available space to support the growing population and the increasing demand for housing, the local government has planned expansion for reclamation projects to benefit the people. 

The city is also becoming an Information Technology hub, and several Multinational companies built their headquarters in the vibrant place of 'Salt Lake,' which is the city center situated in a reclaimed salt-water lake, and that's how it got its name. 

With the rising progress of Kolkata, the locals remained to be spiritual. I have witnessed how they observed the 'Vasant Navrati' or 'Durga Puja,' which celebrates the triumph of good versus evil.  Although the spiritual significance is similar to the Holi Festival, the 'Durga Puja' celebration is mainly prayers and chanting. 

The city of Kolkata may have different impressions on everyone and the visitors, but to truly appreciate and understand a particular place, one needs to travel and be there to experience what it offers. We may think of not-so-good things about the site, but the moment we are there, our perspective has changed and created a lasting memory.

During my short stay, I felt the hospitality and warmth of the people. They treat visitors nicely and do their best to make one feel special. I had a nice feeling and enjoyed the acceptance and treatment they showed. An emotional connection was handled, and there's a substantial soul of the city and the people. No matter what social status they are living in society, they still find some happiness and joy in their hearts. 

In the future, I would love to come back to this place and witness its transformation. It is not just the beautiful place but the joyful people that make you feel good and loved that matters most. 

©️ 2021 Del Cusay

Meeting The Dalai Lama in New Delhi

"Meeting, The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that there is certain holiness in you.  It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being."


Today was another great opportunity. I have met and attended His Holiness The Dalai Lama's teaching in Buddha Jayanti Park, New Delhi. Just a few days ago, I was blessed to travel -- 'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending'Meeting The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala and attending his lecture about 'Jataka Tales' which is about the story of Buddha's birth and rebirth. Today, he addressed thousands of attendees about 'The Three Principal Aspects of The Path,' significant to the Tibetans-in-exile and everyone present regardless of nationality and creed.

Most of the crowd are Tibetans, followed by Indians and some foreigners who are followers of The Dalai Lama. After falling in line towards the venue's entrance, it was good that I found a seat at the back which is more comfortable than sitting on the ground like my previous experience in his lecture in Dharamsala. Some people in groups are sitting on the lawn while others are busy roaming around organizing the event.

Image from: Tibet.net

At the entrance, people are welcomed by Tibetan ushers, and walking on the path are blossoming colorful flowers around. The chirping of birds and the vibrant surroundings relax the senses. Even rabbits and flocks of swans in a pond are visible and have been taken good care of. Walking further are some hilly pathways with petals scattered on the aisles, which are made especially for welcoming His Holiness. The weather is warm but tolerable since it is not the official summer yet. His lecture in Dharamsala was cold, while in Delhi, it was good weather for me since I like the tropical season.

As the open ground was about to be filled with attendees, The Dalai Lama and his entourage walked towards his elevated podium while greeting people with his smiles. This time there were no chanting ceremonies by the Namgyal monks before his lecture, which started at around 2 pm. The good thing about his speech was that an interpreter translated every part of The Dalai Lama's lecture into English for the benefit of the non-Tibetans. This is better since the previous lecture in Dharamsala was delivered in Tibetan, and only those with an FM radio could hear the English translation. 

However, if the same thing happened in the previous experience, I do not worry since seeing the Dalai Lama for me is enough, and I did not mind the language he used in his lecture. Still, since there was an English interpreter, I felt more grateful and happy that I understood his message better. It was also good to hear The Dalai Lama tried speaking in English to make his point. He still cracks some jokes accompanied by his world-renowned laugh and smile to uplift people's spirits. 

Being the living Buddha of compassion, the Dalai Lama has made his teachings as meaningful and lively as possible. Even though it was a long time sitting, it was not tiring, and one could feel his loving and compassionate energy toward the people. His teachings include human suffering, happiness, and enlightenment which is still significant today. 

According to His Holiness, the primary cause of suffering is discontentment. People of today are becoming more materialistic and want something more despite having enough already. Nevertheless, happiness can be attained by contentment and satisfaction with everything. The feeling of 'having enough' and being spiritual at the same time can be an ultimate source of internal happiness and peace of mind. 

Image from:  tibet.net

Likewise, a person can become happier and experience less suffering if enlightenment is achieved. In Buddhist philosophy, spiritual tools like prayer, 'The Power of Meditation,' and selfless services to people are indispensable in attaining a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life'The Power of Meditation,,' and selfless services to the people are essential to achieve a happy, fulfilled, and enlightened life in Buddhist philosophy. 

Although I am a Christian, this principle is relevant and meaningful. We can learn these things from the Buddhist perspective of living. 

At the end of The Dalai Lama's lecture, he thanked everyone for making the event possible and successful. It was followed by his recessional ceremony going back to his destination. Before he finally vanished into sight, I met him up close while he waved his hand to the people who signaled his blessings. 

Meeting The Dalai Lama is a rare opportunity and truly a blessing. His spirituality and compassionate nature give hope and faith to the people to appreciate life and realize that 'There is Certain Holiness in You.'. It is for us to discover our 'Dharma' or life purpose and live in the holiness of our being. 

© 2013 Del Cusay

Meeting His Holiness The Dalai Lama in Dharamsala

"My experience with meeting The Dalai Lama is one of the most unforgettable moments. His simplicity and compassion for the people made him a great name in the history of Spirituality. His message of enlightenment  is significant in today's time and truly a timeless piece of wisdom dedicated to mankind and the future of the world."

For a few days since I arrived in Dharamsala, I have been accustomed to the unique culture and tradition of the people, most especially the Tibetans-in-exile living in Mcleod Ganj. It is a vibrant community with spiritual people living serenely in the cold breeze of mountains beneath the Himalayas.

Although the Tibetans of Mcleod Ganj have been living in an asylum for several decades, they have still tried to preserve their culture and improve the living conditions of the thousands of refugees. They may be far away from their motherland, but they are fortunate for the achievement of freedom in exile. I have found peacefulness and spirituality in this sacred place in The Land of the Tibetans in Dharamsala: Closer to Heaven. 

The simple way of living of the Tibetans is genuinely admirable. They remain content with the blessings they receive and make the best effort to develop their lives utilizing the valuable teachings and philosophies of their Spiritual teacher and leader, His Holiness, The 14th Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama, vested with the authority to rule his people, has shown the capacity to lead and transform the lives of the Tibetans in exile. At his age, The Holy Man still has the energy and vigor to protect his people and become a man of love and compassion that the world has known.

The Dalai Lama, the head of state of the Tibetans, is the most popular and respected Buddhist monk, yet His Holiness describes himself as a simple monk chosen to lead by the Tibetan people. He is not secluded in the hill station of Dharamsala since He is a well-traveled man. He has met a lot of foreign dignitaries for spiritual and peace talks and received numerous awards and recognition from all over the world, including the Nobel Price Award for his peaceful means of fighting for the sovereignty of Tibet against Chinese communist rule.

The central teachings of His Holiness are for humanity to live in simplicity and contentment while cultivating a loving and compassionate nature. I am not a Buddhist, yet his instructions are beyond religion. It is still relevant to everyone regardless of religious beliefs. It is merely a universal philosophy that was started by a Holy man in the conquest of enlightenment thousands of years ago.

I read some of The Dalai Lama's books in Delhi last year. One of my favorites is the book "The Art of Happiness," about the four noble truths. Reading his works encourages people to live a better life, find inner peace and happiness, and seek enlightenment in a troubled world.

Since visiting The Dalai Lama's temple on my first day of the visit, I have known that he will lecture on the 25th of the month about the teachings from the "Jataka Tales." It is a story based on the life and rebirth of Buddha. There was no registration for this event, so I attended for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet The Holy Man.

The Tsuglagkhang Complex

A day before his scheduled lecture in Tsuglagkhang temple, I had the chance to visit some places and the nearby sightseeing in Mcleod Ganj. From the place I am staying at, Snow Crest Hotel in Naddi Village, it took me a half-hour trek to reach the 4 km distance to Mcleod Ganj. On the way, I was delighted to see the natural wonder of Dal Lake and pass by the Tibetan Children's village, just a few-minute walk from the lake. For the second time, I visited The Dalai Lama's temple to pass around the prayer wheels and to observe the monks in their afternoon rituals. The temple was busy preparing for tomorrow's event, and many pilgrims started to arrive, so I took some 'Kangra tea' at the famous tea house--moonpeak espresso cafe, as recommended. I did not wait for the sunset and returned to the hotel to reserve my energy for the next day's event.

On the 25th of February, I woke up early to prepare and go to The Dalai Lama's temple. The cab driver, upon request, picked me up at 5:30 a.m. and reached the temple before 6 am, just a few minutes before sunrise. The guard at the entrance was strict; no cameras or cellular phones were allowed inside. I left my things in the nearby coffee shop and carried a handbag with a notebook and a pen for taking notes. The man in the shop was so kind, and I told him to get it as soon as the lecture was finished.

Now that I was free from restricted gadgets, I passed by the two security checks before heading to the Namgyal monastery just above the checkpoint. I went to the right section to find my seating place reserved for English-speaking people. When I found the right place overlooking the Holy Man without barriers, the monks gathered, and pilgrims worldwide were excited to see The Dalai Lama.

The residence of The Dalai Lama 

At around 6:20 a.m., The Dalai Lama is set to leave his residence for his processional ceremony. The monks and pilgrims, including myself, were rushing to the nearest place where the Holy Man would pass by going up to the Namgyal Monastery, which is adjacent to his residence. As the procession started, he was guided by the Namgyal monks and guarded by the security men. The entourage followed the footstep of the Holy Man, who waives his hand to greet the thousands of people gathered in his temple.

The Dalai Lama and other monks performed an early morning ritual of sacred chants and mantras for about an hour and a half. At 8 a.m., His Holiness and his entourage went down and proceeded to his lecture place, an elevated rectangular platform with Tibetan decorations. Another 20-minute chant and mantra were observed before The Dalai Lama lectured in the Tibetan language at 8:20 a.m.

The whole complex is filled with an audience, mostly Tibetans, who understood the message very well. Some have brought an FM radio since the lecture is also translated into the English and Chinese languages in a specific radio frequency. I did not have one, so I just listened to the original message in the Tibetan language. The Dalai Lama's voice was clear and calm, and he even cracked a joke with the crowd.

The Namgyal Monastery

The lecture ended at 10 a.m., followed by a recessional returning to his residence just a few meters away. The audience witnessed the Holy Man's last walk before he was gone out of sight. The people along the aisles were lucky to have shaken hands with The Dalai Lama while others started walking down the temple to return to their respective places or destinations.

My experience with meeting The Dalai Lama is one of the most unforgettable moments. His simplicity and compassion for the people made him a great name in the history of Spirituality. His message of enlightenment is significant today and truly a timeless piece of wisdom dedicated to mankind and the world's future.

The Dalai Lama is committed to serving humanity, not just the Buddhist Community. The world has constantly been changing, and there is no such thing as permanence. The Dalai Lama is a Holy man, but ordinary people can achieve enlightenment given that There is Certain Holiness in You.

I am grateful for another day full of learning and energy. I hope to see His Holiness The Dalai Lama at another time if given another opportunity. From now on, what is important is to live with the message of love, compassion, and inner peace--The Dalai Lama's way.


© 2013 Del Cusay

The Land of Tibetans in Dharamshala: Closer to Heaven

It is always nice to have a vacation in a faraway place, to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It is a great time to relax and become one with yourself while enjoying the soothing ambiance of the place.

Since I am in India for the second time, It was surprising to receive an invitation to visit the Northern State of Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the highlands of Dharamshala--the place of the Tibetans-in-exile.

From the Tibetan Colony called Majnu Ka Tilla in Delhi, it took approximately 12 hours to reach Dharamshala. The bus departed at 7 pm on the 22nd, and I arrived at 7 am the following day. It is the longest land travel on a single journey I have experienced. 

At the boarding point in Delhi, I got to talk to some people about the history and culture of Tibet and its people living in the upper Dharamsala called Mcleod Ganj. The bus got delayed for an hour and a half, so I was lucky not to get bored while waiting. It was a pleasant conversation, and I have instilled the knowledge I gained at that moment.

In the bus stand of Dharamsala, It took approximately 10 minutes to reach the hotel at Naddi Village--about 3 km. from Mcleod Ganj. The journey was smooth since they had a good road linking the northern state. When I stepped off the bus, it was so cold as the temperature reached near zero degrees centigrade. The whole day was rainy, the place was covered by fog, and the wind was chilly.

I had time to set my things and prepare myself to go to Mcleod Ganj after breakfast and a few hours to rest and contemplate. Back in Delhi, I have already read about popular tourist spots and activities. I wanted to spend my time wisely and get the best thing that Dharamsala could offer, so it is nice to have planned ahead of time.

The Dhauladhar Range

Although it rained on my first day of the visit, I got to see the picturesque panoramic view of the Dhauladhar range, which is widely visible on the balcony of a hotel in the Kangra district. Viewing the snow-capped mountain range with the tall deodar and pine trees in the Alps is truly magnificent. The Dauladhar range offers a great view of the whole Kangra Valley. Currently, the mountain is closed for trekking since the weather is unpredictable. 

I have planned to go trekking on the triund hill, which is about 9 km. from Mcleod Ganj, and it would take 2-3 hours to reach there, and they said it's a good place for sightseeing the frosty mountains and the alpine forest at the ridge of the Dhauladhar range. Since it is temporarily closed, I only get to see it from afar while imagining the life of the Naddi/Gaddi people living in the cold mountains and what it is like to be there at the snowline of the Himalayan foothill. I needed 3 thick blankets at night, and going closer to the snowy mountains would be a great challenge to conquer.

I am in the Naddi Village and have witnessed their peaceful and harmonious lives. In a culturally preserved place, they live simply with contentment and happiness. They are friendly people, and seeing them early in the morning bringing their cows in a greener pasture on this hill road is a beautiful experience.

In the afternoon, I prepared to go to Mcleod Ganj to Tsuglagkhang temple--the place of the Dalai Lama. It was drizzling and cold, but I dared to go some sightseeing. I walked uphill and entered the temple full of monks and tourists.

I have felt the place's serenity and seen the monks' pleasant smiles while roaming around the Namgyal monastery of the temple. I have been there for 2 hours to glimpse the Tibetans-in-exile. They are peaceful and happy despite the misery they have suffered under Chinese rule in Tibet.

The Tibetans in Mcleod Ganj have formed their Government under the leadership of the 14th Dalai Lama. I met a Tibetan souvenir vendor just below the temple and briefly discussed their condition. I then learned that the Tibetans fled to Dharamsala after the failed uprising in 1959 headed by the current Dalai Lama. They suffered cruelty and harsh treatment from the Chinese invaders, and the best thing they did was to have themselves in exile. 

After 50 years, the Chinese Government has kept its sovereignty, which they have fought for several decades. The history I learned from this encounter gave me knowledge of the existence of the Tibetans in Dharamsala.

Adjacent to the Namgyal monastery is the residence of the Dalai Lama. The most surprising moment was when I learned that the Dalai Lama was in town and had been meditating in his room for that period. He will give a talk on the morning of the 25th. It is open to the public, and there is no need to register for this event. My visit was good luck, and I will attend the lecture of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama. I still have a day to explore the place before the course of the Dalai Lama, so I need to prepare myself to see and meet the Holy Man.

It was raining in the afternoon before I left the Monastery, so I decided to have a cup cafe latte in the nearby coffee shop. I stayed briefly to warm up since I couldn't go out and bear the downpour of rain. I thought of not getting sick and reserving my energy to see the Dalai Lama, so I bought an umbrella and started walking up to the square center, the central area of Mcleod Ganj. 

Along the way, I passed some souvenir shops, bookstores, tea shops, restaurants, and hotels. It was still raining when I standby to wait for the cab driver to return to the hotel. I planned to stay in Mcleod Ganj until 8 pm, but since it was raining and cold, I decided to rest and be ready for another journey the next day.

Bearing extreme temperatures is a challenge. I am used to a tropical and humid climate, but I am now becoming tolerant of cold weather that reaches a negative degree centigrade at some point. In a few days, I will be leaving this heavenly place, and what I will be carrying is not a thing but a collection of memorable experiences from the finest areas of the sacred mountain and the wisdom from the great people.

© 2013 Del Cusay

Related Post:

👉 The Gaddi Tribe of Naddi Village

👉 Living with the Gods in McLeod Ganj

Chilly Winds of India's Wintertime: A Reflection

"India could be a land of contrast, but I have witnessed and learned how they persevere and raise the bar towards excellence, making them achieve economic progress and rising power. Some serious challenges may be confronting them, but with faith, unity, and goodwill, India could gain something it deserves."

The wintertime in India is about to end, yet early morning is still misty and foggy while late-night gets chilly. The weather is a bit warm in the daytime, especially in the afternoon, but it is okay and favorable weather. A few days ago, when I arrived on the evening of the 16th, the temperature was quite tolerable, and I did not wear a thermal jacket compared to last year when I reached for the first time in November when the weather was cold and cold chilly.

I left India in the summer of mid-April last year. It was about ten months ago, and now I am back for the second time. I had a pleasant experience on my first visit since the people were nice and friendly. The warm acceptance and welcoming smile are their way of showing hospitality to visitors. This is what I felt like when I arrived a few days ago; in return, greeting people in an Indian way, 'Namaste,' is an excellent start to embracing their culture and beliefs.

Misty and chilly morning in Dwarka, Southwestern Delhi

I never imagined that I would go to India and become exposed to its cultural and social norms. Back in the Philippines, I learned the Indian salutation 'Namaste' but later realized its spiritual significance. It is not just a standard greeting but means that when two or more persons meet, 'the presence of God in me meets the presence of God in you' is the real significance of this sacred word. In a philosophical context, it is fitting since God is present in everyone and only needs recognition. 

People of all ages greet 'Namaste' at home, in the street,  in a social gathering, and even on the phone. Bowing of the head while putting hands together in the center of the chest shows courtesy, friendliness, love, and humility. This simple yet graceful gesture is significant even in today's time. However, I have observed that this salutation is declining due to the influence of Western culture. Saying 'hi and hello' is what I have been receiving. Last year, when I was in Mumbai, I seldom greeted 'Namaste'; what I have been hearing most of the time is 'hi and hello.'

When I was in elementary, we used to greet our teachers and visitors in a Filipino way, 'Mabuhay.' Still, before the 20th century ended, it was changed to 'hi and hello,' a formal and casual way of greeting in the West. 

In India, 'Namaste' as a form of salutation feels like being at peace with someone, even without using bowing and hand gestures. Just uttering the word is already a humble experience like no other in the world. 

For someone not used to cold weather, especially the winter season, it is not easy to wake up early. The good thing is that I kept my winter clothing here when I returned home to Manila last year. A morning walk is possible, but I cannot do jogging or vigorous exercises on the street, or else I get chilled.

Foggy streets of Dwarka in Southwest Delhi

On a foggy and misty morning, people start their day bearing the cold. They wear 
thick clothing usually made of wool while riding on a bicycle. I have seen some students chatting while patiently waiting for their school bus. They tolerate the winter season and have nothing to complain about but to bear with it.

In Mumbai and the rest of southern Indian states, they don't get this kind of weather that northern India, including Delhi, is experiencing. The Himalayan region of India is icy at this time and could even have some snow in the mountain range. Dharamsala is one of the most visited places in India and most popular among foreign travelers.

In the cold weather, having a cup of hot tea with milk is nice, or Indian chai. I have learned to make this kind of beverage, which has a warming and soothing effect. Tea is a staple drink in India, and the country is among the world's top tea producers. I like Indian chai rather than drinking regular tea. However, I could not miss drinking a cup of coffee since I drink it regularly at any time. I am in India, so I can enjoy both beverages they offer.

I am also grateful to have been taught how to make their staple food, ' chapati and paratha.' Both are plain bread made from whole-grain flour, but cooking differs in thickness. I also learned to cook the 'dum aloo,' a dish made of potatoes and some spices that complements the 'paratha' or 'chapati.' I eat rice as my staple, but since I am in India, I must learn to eat the Indian way.

It is always good to learn something new. Learning another place's culture and tradition is a beautiful experience and wisdom. In a multicultural and diverse land, there is nothing to be ignorant about but to understand and accept its norms, beliefs, and social standing.

India may be a land of contrast, but I have witnessed and learned how they persevere and raise the bar towards excellence, making them achieve economic progress and rising power. Some severe challenges may be confronting them, but with faith, unity, and goodwill, India could gain something it deserves.

Wintertime in India is about to end, spring/summer is fast approaching, and it is like the rebirth--the restorative phase. It is the most beautiful season when the sky is clear, and the weather is warm with the blossoming flowers around. I hope I can witness their celebration of the 'Holi festival,' which marks the beginning of spring. For now, it is essential to be grateful for the learning that the winter could bring until such time that it will come to an end--then comes the season of rebirth.

© 2013 Del Cusay