Thursday, March 16, 2006

Observation 1: Guju Toilets

Newer toilets in Gujarat are different from those elsewhere I've visited. There are three unique features that help them stand out as truly special:

1. Wings. These "flaps" come off the side of the toilet seat. They have ridges, and remind me of the places to put your feet when using a squat toilet. Does anyone know why Western toilets might have these? Are we planning to stand on the toilet itself?

2. Flush. In the US, the flush handle is on the toilet itself. Many places in India have this as well. Not so in Gujarat. There is a knob or handle attached to the wall, and only connected to the toilet via some pipe system. You turn the knob to release water into the bowl. Unlike other toilets, this system doesn't automatically shut off, so you would need to close the knob.

3. Bidet. Guju toilets have a bidet set-up. Other places use a tap and a small bucket, or a spray gun, for cleaning oneself. Guju toilets tend to have a high-pressure water shooter built into the top of the toilet bowl that shoots straight across your bum. It's a little surprising the first few times of use, but it works well.

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