DakshinaChitra

Last week we went to DakshinaChitra, a heritage center where they have houses and displays of art and crafts from all around South India. It was fascinating to see the difference in architecture and style depending on the region or religion represented.

This kolam (and here) was at the front gate.

We were welcomed by Ganesha, of course, a favorite god.

Here's Johnny outside the Chettinad House, which is set up to look as it would if a merchant lived there.

Did you know that Snakes and Ladders (and here) originated in India? It was meant to teach that virtues (the ladders) lead to Nirvana while vices (the snakes) lead you back to rebirth.

This is a display of musical instruments used in pujas. The music is supposed to drown out evil or distracting noises.

One of the houses held a gallery of religious art.

Here's Johnny looking at a bronze sculpture of Shiva reclining on a five-headed serpent. Johnny told me that's what Shiva does after performing his duties as destroyer.

This house had a collection of baby cradles. I've occasionally seen babies hung in cradles made from saris.

This contraption is a baby's walker.

The kids took turns grinding rice flour in one of the houses.

Here they are in front of a small temple chariot. The chariots are used to parade the temple idols around during festivals.

We watched this man make blown glass pieces.

At the weaving and pottery house, Evie made a little basket, and Johnny made a ball that rattles when you shake it.

Here they are showing off their handiwork while we wait for delicious masala dosai and shakes.

Some of the houses had textiles on display, and one showed the ikat weaving process.

Many of the houses had puja rooms or household shrines, which varied quite a bit according to region.

We finished up with a stop in the market, where Evie watched this woman making little snakes and other animals out of something that looked oddly like taffy.

Johnny and Evie each bought a couple of souvenirs. I especially like the little stone elephant pendant that Johnny bought. He's been wearing it on a black cord, and it looks awesome!

DakshinaChitra got two thumbs up from us! It was fun, and we learned a lot. We'll be going back.