Ever since I landed in Kutch, the people have been very nice. The place I stayed in Dholavira is in the middle of a village and some oldies from the village visit the place in the morning, sit by the fire, have a chai, greet people and leave by around 10-11am. They wear a type of Harem pants with a lot of pleats. I love Harem pants and asked them where I can buy one of what they are wearing. They said it’s not sold readymade. It’s stitched to order.
I said I liked it a lot and asked if there is a way to get one. One old uncle, took his phone and called someone and talked I Gujarati. I thought he was calling a shopkeeper to check if he has some spare pants etc. He kept the phone down and said the pant is on its way.
A guy came with a Harem pant and a Kurta. The uncle said it’s his pant and shirt and since I am almost the same size as him, it will fit me well. I was so happy and humbled at the same time. Looking at me excited he told me to change into this attire immediately.
He also tied his turban on my head. I took my round of pictures here and there. Everyone at the homestay were thrilled to see the fancy dress show. The old uncle later told me to keep the clothes for myself. When I denied he insisted and so I agreed. I asked him how much I need to pay him and he refused to take any money. I told him I will pay him something. He started doing cost of cloth, stitching charges and said it’s 1.2k. I gladly agreed.
When I went to give the money he gave a hard pat on my back and said it’s his gift to me and he won’t take the money. I could not do much and I unwillingly agreed.
Later I got a taste of desi beedi and some Jai Bolenath prasad from the oldies. It was a fun morning with them.
Endless thoughts 