March 22, 2009 - Fatehpur Sikri

At Fatehput Sikri, a few miles out of Agra, we purchased a simple cloth to offer in the temple. These cloths are then given to the poor in the village so they can make clothes for themselves. The ceremony consisted of presenting the cloth on what I would presume was some type of alter, and then scattering flower petals over the cloth. Over time layers upon layers of these cloths and petals are built up on the alter. Next a simple string was given to us to tie to the stone screens that surround the inner chamber of the temple. While tying the string to the screen we made a wish, the deepest desire of our hearts. It came with a 100 percent guarantee! I am hoping for big things! The surrounding walls of the main building at Fatehpur Sikri is lined with domed lanterns; creating a stunning architecture. I can only imagine what it would have looked like in its prime with the lanterns all glowing. The gate that I sketched is rumored to be the tallest gate in all of Asia; adding to the impressiveness and grandeur of Fatehpur Sikri. While sketching, a group of school students came over to see what I was doing and insisted on having each and every student’s picture taken with me and my father. Each boy would sit between my father and I; they would wrap their arms around us for the picture. It was entertaining and a bit funny to say the least.

While traveling the road between Fatehpur Sikri and Agra there were thousands upon thousands of Muslims walking toward Fatehpur Sikri. They were making their weekly trek to the Temple. You have to understand, this was not a one or two mile trek. This was a 15 to 20 mile journey from Agra. That type of devotion touched me. Not many people have that kind of devotion in the world these days. Little children were walking and women were carrying bags a top their heads and often with a baby in their arms. Walking and walking and walking. I had a gentlemen tell me the other day that the Muslims are fanatical; this may be true but this act of the journey to temple was respectable and inspirational.