So the boys were back at my window at 7 am this morning. My jobsite doesn't start until 9 - maybe that's why nothing gets done.These shots are from the other day. I asked Kausik about my friend here with the beard.
He had been working contentedly with his lungi tied up around his waist. Then I appeared at the window with my camera and all his friends got excited about having their picture taken.
As he climbed over to join the group photo he made the deft motion that clears the knot and lets the lungi drop full length for the photo.
I asked Kausik why he would do that and it was explained to me that this is a sign of respect. To show your legs is indecent, so you lower your 'skirts' if you meet someone.
I couldn't stop laughing. The thought of 2 million guys wandering around Chennai 'indecent' was too much!
(BTW: during lunch break yesterday I went downstairs with my laptop and showed the guys their photos. Today they arrived in standard issue polo shirts and warm up pants. Maybe the boss figured he had to dress up the image!)
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