Potli Naani ki: collecting a bag full of stories as the Grannies drive across Rajasthan

The Naanis wrapped up the first leg of their journey cruising around Rajasthan – the land of sand, magnificent havelis & forts with wondrous art work and talented artists in every town and village.

Driving a distance of more than 1200 kms covering major towns and cities of Sikar, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaiselmer, Barmer, they are now headed to Gujarat. The longest distance they covered was on Day 5 as they drove from Jodhpur to Jaiselmer driving a distance of 330 kms, the roads were so smooth that Monicka almost dozed off. Neeru and Pratibha came to her rescue, just like all the other Indian road trips, this road trip is also not complete without a game of Antakshari. So whenever any of the team mate is about to doze off the other two Naanis start singing… at the top of their voices, songs from yesteryears Pyaar hua ikraar hua hai… to Mere sapnon ki Raani kab aayegi tu…  to the more recent hits Mere Saiyyan ji se aaj maine Break- up kar liya… Our Naanis can give all the newbies a run for their money with their driving as well as singing abilities 😉

Every stop in Rajasthan was a celebration of craft and art, beginning from the Jutti vaala they met on their first halt in Sikar, to the Saari vaalas of Jodhpur who were more than happy to parcel the cargo all the way to Delhi.

They also spent a lively evening in Sam dunes dancing with Kaalbeliyas and Manganiyars

The tour of Salavas a Bishnoi village near Jodhpur was an opener. They learned more than a skill or two from the Potters and weavers.

But the one who charmed them the most with his art was the miniaturist, KUMAR SWAMI, they met in Jaiselmer who was more than happy to be interviewed by our Naanis.

Each of these meetings had a different story to tell and and as they travel ahead, the Naanis are surely collecting more Kahaanis in their Potli…