Last year at this time I was newly landed in India and slightly discombobulated. Despite my desire to be adventurous, I spent the first month only venturing as far as the western-style mall next to our hotel.   When I traveled a little further it was to view apartments or complete government paperwork and we were accompanied by someone from my husband’s office.

It was the American Women’s Club (AWC) holiday Shopping Mela (mela means ‘fair’ in Hindi) that finally coaxed me out of our empty, marble-floored flat. I needed companionship, which is something that the club provides for ex-pat women   in Mumbai. I also needed to get interesting Christmas presents for family in the States. Wherever I am, I prefer doing at least some holiday shopping at local craft fairs or church bazaars.   It means my money supports cottage industries, local vendors and sometimes charities.   Not to mention that these events provide the opportunity to find unique gifts.   AWC is hosting the Mela   again next Sunday and the proceeds go to support a number of charitable causes including the Foundation for Mother and Child Health, a life saving organization working with some of Mumbai’s most vulnerable citizens. I’m encouraging my friends in India to attend and I’d like to congratulate my countrywomen for making a positive impact during their time in India.