To Orwell Today,
re: SHRINE TO ORWELL and ORWELL MUSEUM IN INDIA

Hello there,

I need your urgent help. I am updating the Bihar chapter to the Rough Guide to India, and want to mention Motihari as Orwell's birthplace. Is there really to be a museum here? And if so, can anyone tell me if there are places to stay in town? I can only find reference to 'dharmashalas' on the Internet, but I need hotel names, addresses and phone numbers - even just one would do, a place where tourists would feel comfortable (it can be basic). Could you ask Nasir Abid, who seems to know what he's talking about on your website?

Time is of the essence, so as quick as you can.

Many thanks and best wishes,
Caroline Sylge

Greetings Caroline,

I haven't heard from Nasir Abid lately regarding how the plans for the Orwell Museum are coming along, but perhaps after reading your request he will get in touch.

My great grandparents, on my father's side, are buried in Poona, near Bombay, and if/when I ever return to India I will go and visit their graves and Orwell's museum. By that time, with help from your guidebook, it will have become a major tourist attraction with a hotel and bed-and-breakfasts where people can stay.

All the best,
Jackie Jura

ORWELL & JURA GRANDFATHERS VICARS

ORWELL MOTIHARI MUSEUM PROGRESS (Nasir sends updates on progress of the Orwell museum & accommodations in Patna)