Arts...Travels...Writing

Last May, I went with a group of fellow photography enthusiasts to Bhutan in what proved to be a trip of a lifetime in more ways than one. The place is blessed with well-conserved natural resources, (lush mountains, clear streams, calm valleys),  its distinct culture which is greatly influenced by Buddhism, and the warmth of its people, who are generally ready to share a smile. Aside from these, what sets Bhutan apart from many Asian countries is its unique architecture. I'll be sharing more of my experience in future posts but for now, I'd like to share a few snaps, specifically a facet of Bhutanese architecture, its doors and windows. This window design typical of many houses and buildings in Bhutan Doors are as equally interesting...this one from a temple in Bhumtang Tashiccho Dzong in Thimpu Near Punakha Dzong In a temple complex in Bumthang...this is where the townsfolk light up candles Behind Tashiccho Dzong in Thimpu A prayer wh

I've never really explored the entirety of Gardens by the Bay, but last week I was delighted to discover a lotus pond near the Marina Reservoir promenade. And it helps that it is in a quiet area too:-) Here are some of my snaps: Lotus is considered a rare gem for its ability to grow out of a mud. It is an important symbol in Buddhism (it can mean purity, fortune, faithfulness, the stages of a Buddhist' life - depending on context and colour)...and many books use the analogy of lotus and mud to explain the role of murk (suffering, etc.) in the bigger scheme of things, i.e., the lotus flower (beauty) needs the mud (suffering, etc) to bloom and grow...one such book is Thich Nhat Hanh's No Mud, No Lotus Bees season! There's a whole stretch of them at Gardens by the Bay The flowers apparently bloom in the morning or with sunrise, and the older ones shed off their petals in the afternoon This is what's left after the bloom...it lacks