While flush with temple and palace (2nd largest in India) details other guides omitted, Uma also regaled us with a romantic tale of a found and lost princely heritage, an unfulfilled Western love, drug addiction, aimless wandering, a father's revengeful wrath, and a cold, arranged marriage worthy of any Harlequin novel.
We were smitten; we were duped.
Turns out Uma is rich, very rich and while an honest enough guide--as India defines the word--he enjoys the dramatic flourishes guiding offers, using his clients as willing supporting actors in his self-scripted Bollywood film.
All part of this colorful world!! No need to pay for entertainment EVER!!
Uma is pointing out some of the exquisite details in a miniature painting Udaipur is famous for. Takes many years to complete one using squirrel tail hair brushes and camel eye lash brush. Real gold details and precious stone ground for paint.
Peacock full of precious stones in Palace which is still in use. Buddy guards the front door. Notice the sharp points designed as elephant protection
The sun was designed to stand in for the real thing for the village during monsoon season.
Boat ride on lake at sunset.
George and guide stand in square where a scene of Octopussy was filmed. He was in it. 3 years old. Or so he says!!
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