First visit to a Gurdwara

Another bus we had to sleep on and another poor nights sleep. I’d say never again, but I remember saying that the last time. After almost 18 hours sat on the same seat my bum was literally red raw!

Dar es Salaam (or Dar as I’m going to refer to it from now on) has to be my favourite city so far (outside of South Africa). It’s a very relaxed place and is a mixture of different cultures and peoples from around the world. It’s cosmopolitan nature and architecture make it a welcome change to the dust bowls of other cities.

After Bhav’s rather long trip to the police station we went to the National Museum and briefly walked around the botanical gardens (which have seen much better days). In the evening we decided to visit the Sikh Temple (or Gurdwara). I’ve never been to one and Bhav being a Sikh (at least in upbringing) herself meant I’d have the perfect guide. The chance of a free dinner at the end of all that culture also sounded good.

We were the first people to arrive for the evening prayers, so only the two men (one singing and playing a small organ like instrument and the other playing two drums) witnessed what could have been a faux pas if it wasn’t for Bhavneets briefing on how to bow and that I needed to tie a handkerchief to my head.

Dinner was good although basic by what Bhav’s seen. I certainly felt welcome and was invited in to one guys room to listen to him playing the sitar. I though I’d have a go but it’s definitely best left to the professionals. My brief twangs and listening to the guy play for what must have been 30 minutes made me want to buy a CD when I get back!