Bangalore

First impressions: it appears on the surface to be very western, influenced no doubt by the software industry that drives the economy. Hwy signs even encourage drivers to "follow lane discipline". Lots of billboard advertising like TO. Ads designed to appeal to those of means, using words like "priviledged, prestigious." Reinforcement of the caste system. Conversely in Varanassi, noticed a motorbike ad: "worth the 16 year wait" and product price. Took that to mean it would take the average Muhamad-blow that long to save enough rupees. My driver for the next few days, Muthu (name means: the pearl), was quick to tell me he's from Tamil Nadu. While writing this, he's buying a toy car for his son from a tout who approached the car. Haggled from 60Rs to two for 30! Anyhow, gonna sit back and enjoy the four hour ride to Mysore. Weary. These 4 (today) and 5 and 6 a.m. mornings are taxing.
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