Rice paddy work is not for the squeamish: you can be in mud up to your knees
The 1st challenge is climbing steep stone stairs to reach our paddy
Rice is traditionally planted in the centre of the paddy, but once tall enough . . .
. . . it is gathered & replanted around the edge
When we finish, our paddy will be all filled in like our neighbour's
Little Rani considers joining the effort
Dr. Aditya's half-finished clinic, next to the paddy, offers a good vantage point on the work
Rani decides to go the rest of the way & help
Rice & smile!
Around the outer paddy, oxen plough the area for the transplants
We've hired our oxen from a nearby farmer, who is also their driver
Has the mud claimed 1 of Katyayani's boots?
When heavy rain interrupts the work, everyone heads for shelter in the clinic
But a quick exit in deep mud is difficult!
The oxen & driver probably appreciate the work break
Inside the clinic, little Somnath sets some small mud crabs found during the work
The crabs eye their new surroundings . . .
. . . as Shurjo, Jemal, & Baba eye them back
Clinic director Aditya welcomes one of his photogenic visitors
Meditation break
This might be the messiest meditation in Ananda's history!
A blissful though bedraggled Blezy
Outside, the ploughman returns to his task as a neighbour drops by (note the makeshift raingear)
Over at Seva House, hot lunch is a special blessing today!
Rain continues, so it's meditation, Phase II
Jaidhara
Ruchi, Katyayani
Farewell blessing for Jaidhara, leaving for Ananda Assisi tomorrow
Jai, Transplanting Team!
