Madonna's Indian New Year
American pop diva Madonna and her family are spending the New Year in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan, according to a number of reports.
The 49 year-old singer and her film director husband Guy Ritchie (39) flew to Jodphur from the Maldives by private jet on New Year's Eve with their children Lourdes (11), Rocco (seven) and David (two) along with family friends, a childminder and a bodyguard.
A Daily Mail source said: "Madonna wanted the authentic Rajasthani experience and particularly to give the children a trip to remember. She wants to involve them in the local customs and traditions.
"On New Year's Eve they had a wonderful, magical evening under the stars and spent a lovely day yesterday around the local villages and hamlets..."
It is thought that the couple are celebrating the formal approval of their controversial adoption of David Banda, a Malawi-born orphan, with the extravagant family holiday.
During their visit the family have been entertained by royalty and socialised with local dignitaries in the Jodphur region. They have visited some of the area's historic landmarks, including the 16th century Rohit Garh Fort which is now a heritage hotel, and spent time in local villages. It is believed that they will also be visiting the Ramakrishna Jain Temple and Udaipur city. There is tight security surrounding the party on their five-day tour.
Rajasthan, famous for its beautiful scenery, palaces and forts, has a flourishing tourist industry and is very popular with international royalty and A-list celebrities. Prince Charles, Kate Winslet, Richard Gere and Liz Hurley have all visited the desert state.
Written by: Maxine Clarke
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