Madonna’s India itinerary is almost an open window to the pop diva’s personal reinvention
For a pop diva who is billed the world over as the Material Girl, there’s a distinctly spiritual side Madonna has shown to India. International blogs are still gasping in disbelief about the way she has chosen to usher in the New Year — an almost back-of-the-beyond experience in the same exotic Rajasthan that lesser stars flock to for decadent, royal retreats.
Even in Mumbai, she toured a Colaba slum, lunched at an Udupi restaurant and found the time to visit a Synagogue in the Fort area on Wednesday afternoon. Her personal reinvention is too stark to be missed, starting with her active surrender to Judaism. A convert to the Kabbalah cult, Madonna was in Jerusalem with her family four months ago to spend the Jewish New Year with Israeli President Shimon Peres.
She’s already taken a Hebrew name — Esther — and is now reported to be taking formal steps to convert to Judaism. Currently, she’s known to attend synagogues, wear the Star of David and observe the Sabbath. Even her pals Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher had accompanied her to Israel for the Kabbalah trip.
On Tuesday night, Madonna’s ‘Mumbai guide’ Gregory David Roberts hosted a dinner for her at the sea-side eatery in Colaba, Salt Water Grill, run by his friend Riyaaz Amlani. Madonna and Guy are both believed to be vegans — so no milk products for them. Madonna is said to have ordered for a spinach ravioli.
A gaggle of socialites also turned up to meet Madonna in flesh and blood, but that’s when John Abraham came and took over the show.
John was shooting nearby with Sanjay Dutt at H20 and was invited to come and meet Madonna. Later, even Sanjay Dutt — who is apparently a die-hard fan — couldn’t resist dropping in for a bit with girlfriend Maanyata in tow to meet her. Did he ask Madonna for an autograph? At least Sanjay is not telling.
