Hampi, as it is known and loved by friends who have been to India before me, is caught up in a rapid process of change. The government here, in partnership with UNESCO, have demolished the guest houses and colourful shops of Hampi Bazaar. Similar places on the other side of the river are now under threat, and Hampi of the Hippy Trail may be passing into the realms of memory, to be replaced by a homogenised tourist zone. When I was there last week I met Gali Durugappa, a brilliant musician. Gali is like a pied piper. Playing music at sunset up on the boulders in Hampi was something I shall never forget. The little chai seller children gather around him and learn his songs. The visitors to Hampi, from all over the planet, flock to the tiny music shop he runs with his wife. Music is the universal language, the direct link to the divine. Gali has a vision, which, if realised, will help to preserve the essence of what Hampi - beyond and as well as an astounding temple complex- has become to many thousands of travellers. Please read this link and share, especially with any friends who have been to Hampi. Or who are dreaming of going there. - Annie Durrant wrote this, but these words apply to me so perfectly! Please support Gali: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/free-community-music-centre
Welcome to the edge of nothingness. May you be a blessing to all you meet. May your presence be a gift. #india #hampi #travel #nothingness #signs
More Indian adventures #thetravellingaccordion #thesmalltravellingaccordion #travel #musicianlife #india #hampi
Playing like an elephant #thetravellingaccordion #india #hampi #travel #musicianlife #baraganmusic
Old Goa #india #baraganmusic #thetravellingaccordion #thesmalltravellingaccordion
Goa on pictures still looks good. And luckily we found a straw hut where in the nighttime it is quiet. But Arambol in reality: way too many tourists here. I feel a bit naive to have fallen for the lonely planet's description of a calm, quiet place. Reality: endless tourist shops, beach bars competing with LED lights, rustic rocks being hurt with concrete buildings. I feel a bit guilty to be here, being part of this touristic destruction. But hey, the diarrhea is making me Goa nowhere ;)
India, two more nights, and then you'll meet this small accordion! #travel #baraganmusic #thetravellingaccordion #india #musicianlife
Under the bridge in #vondelpark #amsterdam video thanks to @tasyasara #baraganmusic #streetmusician #streetart
A musician's jungle office #plants #green #jungle #wilderness #cityjungle
