Visiting Lakshmi

As we toured across India, we came across a variety of creatures; pacing sloth bears, territorial peacocks, and of course plenty of cows (or “living speed brakes”). By the end of our trip I’d had my exotic animal fix, at times getting a little too close for comfort to nature. But even after nearly three weeks spent in this foreign place, what I was really excited for was for Lakshmi – the elephant at the Ganesha Temple in Pondicherry.

The temple itself was a small building with no more than a dozen people inside praying and giving offerings. The real attraction to the temple was Lakshmi, who's presence outside made the small street crowded with both Indians and tourists. The procedure was simple; pay a few rupees to a surrounding vendor for some fruit or grass, approach the elephant, and hold out the offering hoping Lakshmi decided not to take off your arm. Once/If she took the offering, she’d lift her trunk and give a gentle ‘bop’ on your head, providing a blessing as a real-life Ganesh (the elephant Hindu god).

The trip as a whole was simply amazing. So much happened in such a short amount of time, it’s difficult to summarize the entire experience. Each person added something great and unique to our group, and I’m certain that I’ve I grown both spiritually and mentally (and probably physically, with all the curry and naan I ate). One thing I know for sure; I will definitely be returning to India in the not-too-distant future.  


- Cameron