We left Bangalore with the Shatabdi Express train at 11 A.M. and reached Mysore in exactly two hours time. In accordance with the Indian tradition, we were heartily welcomed at the railway station with flower garlands by Dr. Suresh Patil from the Anthropological Survey of India (ASI), and Dr. Kikkeri Narayana from the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), who had been kind enough to plan for our programme in Mysore.

After some hectic weeks mostly spent in big cities in India with their high levels of air pollution, it was pleasant to arrive at the beautiful, small city of Mysore where the air felt fresh and clean. The city has many historical buildings connected to the Maharaja of Mysore (the main palace on the photo to the right), and in many parts the city looks like a museum of architecture. It is known as the cultural capital of Karnataka, and it is also famous for having a pleasant climate all year round.

We went straight to to the wonderful new-built guest house (truly the best guest house we have ever experienced anywhere) belonging to the CIIL, where we were going to stay for two nights. Afther lunch, we proceeded for meetings at the Anthropological Survey of India.

Article Link:http://sasnetold.eu/sasnet/reports-sasnet-contact-journey-india-november-2007.html