We caught half an hour on the beach in Chennai (Madras), after visiting a graphic design school called Artlab. What I didn't know is that at least 4,000 people died when the tsunami hit the beach here in 2004. Most of those who died were the poor who live in fishing villages along the shore - their boats and homes were destroyed along with their loved ones, many children died. A lady told us that when the tsunami came, the first thing that happened was that the water retreated back, and of course everyone ran to see what was happening, children were estactic to see the crabs and fish on the sand where the water had receeded. Little did they know that their inquistiveness would lead to their death.
Two years later, you wouldn't know that anything had happened here. The shore is flanked with colourful new boats, many with the names of American sponsors painted on their hulls. Life continues, the sun continues to shine and fish are brought up in new nets.
The children we met said they didn't go to school, but they were happy playing and fishing with their fathers. They were fascinated by Chris' camera 'phone, and though Tamil is their first language they were adept at crying 'photo please'!
Two years later, you wouldn't know that anything had happened here. The shore is flanked with colourful new boats, many with the names of American sponsors painted on their hulls. Life continues, the sun continues to shine and fish are brought up in new nets.
The children we met said they didn't go to school, but they were happy playing and fishing with their fathers. They were fascinated by Chris' camera 'phone, and though Tamil is their first language they were adept at crying 'photo please'! 
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