In India, 60th, 80th and 100th birthdays warrant a big celebration and it just so happened that Jean turned 80 while we were at the illam. The preparations started days in advance; a priest had to be called, cows secured, dances learned. It was quite an event.
We started early because the ceremony had to be finished by dawn and it took over an hour. The priest had come the night before to build a ceremonial fire pit and altar. There was lots of chanting and pouring things in bowls and putting things in the fire, followed by fruit and the sweet rice that seem to accompany all Hindu ceremonies. I couldn't believe the kids were all hungry for breakfast an hour later. I was stuffed!
In India people give gifts on their birthdays. The children will bring around candy at school, and Jean always buys saris for the women and a local nursing home. 
In the evening we all gathered for dancing by the children, and of course numerous long Tamil speeches.
I love the picture of the old woman. She appears well cared for.
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