Leaving Mysore behind for the second time this year I realise that you do not come to Mysore as a tourist; you come here as a yoga practitioner. Mysore does not have beaches or a big club scene; it has three of the world’s best Ashtanga yoga teachers, a world renowned Ayurvedic doctor, one of the best Sanskrit and philosophy teachers in the world and of course the dedicated foodies who provide special food catered especially for yogis. And, of course, it has Mr. Joseph, an American who has made it his priority to introduce new visitors to all that Mysore has to offer. It is an absolute pleasure staying at Chez Mr. Joseph’s, whose lovely young housekeeper Nandini likes to take naps somewhere amongst the seven rooms, whose dog Ruby takes pleasure in riding on the front of the ‘Royal Enfield’, and who will take his guests on the ‘Royal Enfield’ tour of Mysore. Sitting on the back of the bike, with the breeze blowing through ones hair is a fantastic way to experience the bustling streets of Mysore. For newcomers there simply is no better way to become familiar with this wonderful town. If you have never been to India or to a third world country for that matter, Joseph will insure that you are introduced to all that is vital to know; and all of this is included in the price, and in the end you will also have made a wonderful friend.

Then on my last day Joseph took me out to Odanadi, a privately funded refuge for children who have been recovered from the sex trade. This includes children who are sold as sex slaves as well as children whose mothers are drug addicts and prostitutes, and without being too graphic, simply do not look after their children. The director is a man who 21 years ago felt compelled to help these children. He has a family of his own and when we visited, his daughter was happily playing with the other girls. The girls are housed in a separate building to that of the boys and the place is spotless. One of the only places in Mysore I have found to be exemplarily in cleanliness. Sadly the boys are housed in temporary accommodation due to the struggle to obtain land and funding for another building. The organisation depends entirely on private donations. Many Western yogis also donate their time and effort by visiting the refuge and helping with arts and crafts as well as simply spending time with the children. It is certainly one of the most inspirational places I have been to. One thing that struck me especially is that these children are happy, despite the fact that most of them have been severely abused.

It is hard to imagine, having a 16-year old son myself. I cannot possibly fathom what would drive a parent to such desperate measures as to abandon their child to a fate worse than death. Here at Odanadi the girls have a future. They are educated and groomed for the outside world. In their own time they are free to leave once having reached adulthood; and all seem to do well. It is interesting to see these girls doing their best to retain some sort of typical Indian femininity. The clothing provided is what ever is donated. Indian woman pride themselves on their appearance, even the lowliest street sweeper will dress in a bright and colourful sari.

It is not so expensive to have clothing made in Mysore. I paid about $60 for four three-piece outfits including the tailoring. Any money donated to the centre goes directly to providing for the girls. The administrative costs are few, as most work on a volunteer basis. So if you feel compelled to give a little you can contact Mr. Stanley Parashu through his email address and website.

Then, changing the subject completely, I also met one of India’s most outstanding artists Ganjifa Raghupathi Bhatta. His work is inspired by his dedication to Brahmin philosophy. His paintings are sold all over the world. I was lucky enough to purchase some special pieces directly from him and even commissioned one. Again the prices are very reasonable, whereas once his work reaches the West you will pay a great deal more. He lives in Mysore permanently and is a good friend of Joseph’s as well.

So, now I will take my newly de-toxed body and brilliant clean teeth of to Goa and a retreat I have been very much looking forward to visiting, Purple Valley Yoga Retreat.