Lonely Planet India - August 2016

Religious smells are more than just incense and flowers. They are a heady

concoction that comprises the smooth burning of butter candles in

monasteries (pictured) and the distinct smell of supari offered up on betel leaves

Teeming rushing and swirling India is a country where over a billion people

are always on the go. Like these dizzy giggling children enjoying joyrides in

the village mela every minute of the day is a feverish blur of movement

PHOTOGRAPHS: VIVEK NIGAM (CHILDREN ON FERRIS WHEEL) AYAN GHOSH (BUDDHIST LAMPS) & FRED CANONGE (LADIES IN RIVER)

The affectionate touch is an important part of Indian community living although barriers of gender do come into play. Be it the casual hug of an acquaintance

the tight embraces under the Eid moon or even the casual nudges and shoves between old friends touch becomes an expression of warmth and fondness

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