diplomatic delhi.

It's a shame that the day after I left India was to be Republic Day (not to be confused with their Independance Day in August), marking the day India officially adopted its constitution. It would have been nice to see all of the celebrations that the capital had prepared, including a grand parade that showcases India's Air Force, Army and Navy. 

Delhi's India Gate.

Politically, Delhi has been the gateway to so many important events... including the rise and fall of one great man, Gandhi.

Affectionately dubbed the 'Father of the Nation', his simplistic lifestyle, and minimal dress goes to show that it's not the clothes you wear that make who you are. Outraged that the British were milling local Indian cotton into cloth, then re-selling it back to the Indians, Gandhi promoted the movement of wearing a simple khadi, spun by hand himself from a simple charkha (similar to the one seen on the flag of India). Khadi wasn't therefore just simply a cloth, but a symbol that boycotted foreign-goods and also one that represented self-sufficiency, an important roadblock to India's path to independence.

Not only did he sacrifice basic necessities such as clothing and food, but his own freedom as his fight for equitable rights had him incarcerated on several occasions. His life's mission was to better the lives of everyone, especially those of India's lowest classes. His philosophy will always be an inspiration for peace and nonviolence - something that these days, the world needs a little more of.

The Rajghat, the site
of Gandhi's cremation.

Saffron for courage & sacrifice. 
White for truth & peace.
Green for faith & chivalry.

His life was his message.