Oh what a do! Afzal's house was in full preparation when I returned, having dodged a number of firecrackers along the way. All hands were on deck - cleaning the terrace, preparing the food, lighting candles and sprinkling out floral designs, by the front door, with coloured flour. This wards off the evil spirits and welcomes in the goddess of wealth - I was sprinkling furiously. We all got dressed into our finery, and Afzal talked me through her beautiful collections of saris - all colours, fine materials, and patterns from over the years - there really is a sari for all celebrations and considering August is the only month in India without some kind of do - there were a fair few. I feel very lucky to have met Afzal, she has been so kind
... read more