Dream Trip 2009

Great Travel Moment

These catfish didn't play around in the Gadsisar Lake of Jaisalmer in Northwest India. They knew what they wanted and they came for it. As residents of this artificial water tank built by Maharawal Garsi Singh in 1367, the catfish, as is clear by the photo, are primed to ingest whatever comes their way. To think that up until not so long ago, this lake provided the city's drinking water. Now it offers visitors a brush with inhabitants revered. These swimmers are considered holy. In fact, the catfish have grown bhuge through notoriety and frequent public feedings. The catfish seem to know their special status, and take their standing seriously, though it could be argued that opening one's mouths for a handout may not be considered the best of etiquette.