Bells on the train

Riding the train can sometimes be a pain, but it is nonetheless a fascinating experience here in Mumbai...

Today, as I gazed out at the slums and the poverty that is so much of this city, I got a soundtrack to the sites.

Coming from somewhere in a nearby 2nd class car, loud bells, drums, and boisterous singing filled the air as the Indian city swept by.

There is something about the ringing, chanting, and festivity-like quality to the sounds of acoustic, tribal or religious music that turn an otherwise drab morning into a colorful experience for the ears.

Twice now, I have hopped off the train and strained to catch a glimpse of these musicians, as the train leaves the station, wondering how in the world they find space in the train cars to play their music, and twice now, I have seen not even the slightest trace of this band of men. They are swallowed up by the masses, hidden away from sight among the throngs of people -- only their music permeates the crowds.