Sarkhej Roza is a magnificent complex built on the outskirts of Ahmedabad.  It is composed of  a  modest, but graceful old  mosque, a library, a lake, gardens and palace ruins.  It was built by the city’s founding monarch as a memorial for his spiritual  adviser and  Sufi saint, Sheikh Ahmed Khattu who was  buried in the mausoleum.  These beautiful carved screened windows are in the library. They let in light and air but provide privacy for those inside looking out, especially for the women who are not to be seen except by their family.

This is the ruins of the queen’s palace which is an integration of Muslim,  Hindu and Jain architectural elements.

Another shot of the queen’s palace which now is in ruins. There was a huge lake in front of these buildings which as you can see is all dried up. But maybe not now as it is monsoon.

Next stop was the mausoleum where the spiritual adviser is buried . He is reported to have lived to be 111 years old.

Next was the mosque which is a house of prayer even today. Women are not allowed in this mosque, but other mosques didn’t restrict women from entering. We tried always to be respectful and honor the religious practices wherever we were.

As David began photographing the site and the buildings , we were in a large piazza in front of the mosque. There was a large tree for shade and under it were many woman , children and babies.  Yeah…my favorite.  I waved and they flew over to me as you can see!

She wanted to see herself in my hat!  One of the girls asked where she could  buy one!

These young people seemed to be a couple. Do you think they could be married?

Mom giving a little encouraging push into the picture. 

What great pleasure they all seemed to get having their pictures taken and then seeing themselves in the window. . . such simple things bring much pleasure. 

There is our rickshaw driver Sunil, who came over the rescue me for the crowd,  never knowing this is the best part of the day for me. I love the beautiful warm friendly children and their long suffering yet incredibly patient elders. This was a special blessing for me.

As we were leaving the entrance door to the complex, I spotted this sign and it became my number two favorite shot of the day .  It is said that Islam is still practiced as it was in the ancient days….looks pretty modern and up to date with the  posting of  this sign!

Namaste. . . .. Anne   T I I I   ( I am adding an additional I for This Is Incredible India!