Hampi Life

Hampi is known for its amazing collection of antiquities over a large area -- temple after temple. But driving around shows everyday life that in some respects is at least as interesting in the high art of the past.

Nothing defines everyday life more than cooking and cleaning. Cooking is mostly private, but laundry is done any where there is a supply of water. And much of this water is not what I would want to wash in!

Agriculture is the main "industry" in this part of India.

Ag workers, especially sugarcane cutters, camp out as they move to harvest crops.

Scarecrows

Oxen/bullocks frequently have brass tips on their horns.

Part of the problem with air quality in India is the open-air fires. This one is fairly clean and burning brush. The fires to reduce roadside garbage are more problematical -- but it does do a good job of reducing litter and makes it easier to retrieve metal in the trash for recycling.

The town of Hampi is small and mostly filled with restaurants and guest-houses (minimal comforts) for visitors. The percentage of young (20-something) tourists was far higher here than anywhere else I've been.

Hampi -- the town.

Hampi essentials for sale along the street.

Family transportation. (Count 'em -- there are five people on that bike.) In the U.S. this would require a mini-van.

I think this is a temple, but it is definitely odd.