Jen and her daughter, Nora, as well as Manisha, the Elementary Guide, are in India for a wedding and to visit other important Montessori locations. This is Part 2 of the Travel Journal.

“Nora and I are staying at this retreat center, where the wedding will be held. We wait for the rickshaw and see a Christian service happening next to our room. We spy a little bit, recognizing the rituals, despite the language difference.

We arrive at Manisha’s parents’ house, a hidden gem in the center of the city. To get there, the rickshaw drops is off a few blocks away. We walk through a maze of shops and flats. Entering through two gates, we wash our hands and feet before ascending the sturdiest staircase I’ve ever seen. The house is solid, made mostly of a dense wood over 500 years ago. Built-in cabinets, settees, and deep, wide wooden swings define this peaceful place.

This morning is a little lazy, cutting broad beans for dinner and chatting. Manisha shows Nora how to roll roti & Nora is in heaven.

We eat breakfast, then head to Manisha’s sister’s flat.

We enter and see Sayali with one henna artist on an arm and one on a leg. They work quickly, precisely, creating intricate designs, hiding each letter of the groom’s name in the design.

Lunch is served on large tin trays—a daal, roti, a spicy cabbage sautéed dish, and some rice. We hear about Sayali, as her friends join the festivities.

Soon, one of the artists finishes Sayali and begins working on one of the many aunties. One-by-one, we take turns, unique designs talking shape on hands and feet... and one head.

After several hours of reminding Nora to bounce carefully, it’s time to head back to Manisha’s parents. We stop to pick Up my blouse from the tailor. Across the street, we stop to get barrettes and bindi at one of the street shops. I learn, as I ask for lipstick, that I should check my purchases with Manisha before ordering. Still learning why, but I am trusting her on this one.

There’s discussion back at the home front about the purpose of all these time-consuming rituals. As I was watching these aunties, three generations of family and friends, coming together to be pampered, to enjoy one another, to dote on this bride, I wondered why we need a deeper purpose. Sayali is being sent off into marriage, surrounded by her people. That’s important.”

Jen Stoll - Owner & Director

Jen's Travel Journal: Part 2