Imagine you could open a window in your house onto a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Himalyan peaks. You share the road with cows and chickens, while monkeys tried to steal bread and fruit from street vendors! Walking the streets of your small hometown you see Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead and Victor Banerjee, lead actor in the award-winning film, A Passage to India. These are just some of the experiences that librarian Rashmi Thapliyal Swain will share when she presents “A Native Looks at India.” If you have been to India, bring a photograph, souvenirs, or a story to share.
Rashmi Swain will talk about her experiences growing up in India, in a city named Mussoorie, also known as “Queen of the Hills.” She will share how she met her American husband in India and demonstrate how to wear a sari. Indian artifacts, a travel film, and Indian music will also be part of this free event.
Rashmi Swain is a librarian in Oak Park Public Library’s Adult and Teen Services department. Her home state in India is famous because the Beatles made a retreat there that changed their music and their lives. While on retreat, George Harrison took sitar lessons from sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, winner of three Grammy Awards and several Indian awards.
