On our last day at the Auyuryogashram we walked through the small residential streets around the retreat centre. It was a local holiday so children were out playing games and riding bikes. We met a boisterous group of young boys who showed us the rice paddies, a local shrine, a holy bathing site, a rock quarry and paths through the woods.

On the way back, a football game was in progress and Pankaj joined in playing net. Only a couple of balls went by him!

Children here are curious with sweet genuine smiles that reach their eyes. They laugh often. They touch affectionately and walk with arms around one another. One teenage boy made sure that I was safe walking down a steep hill by holding my hand all the way. 

In India, it seems you never know what will happen in a given day. Plans are met with surprises that often feel like gifts. This unplanned tour was a warm farewell from Parlikad.