Kerala popularly known as, ‘God’s Own Country’ and a state in Southern India. Kerala lies at the south west of the Indian Peninsula with the Arabian Sea on the West, the Western Ghats on the East. The Western Ghats bordering the eastern boundary of the state forms a continuous mountain wall. It enjoys unique geographical features and has pleasant climatic conditions throughout the year. Kerala’s culture is largely Dravidian in origin. It is one among the few places in India which was not under the direct British rule.
Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala which falls during the months of August and September. It is celebrated to mark the homecoming of the mythical king Mahabali. This celebration lasts for 10 days where the Kerala’s culture and tradition is displayed. People decorate the floor with floral arrangements called as Pookalam in Malayalam in order to welcome the king Mahabali.
Kathakali is one of the famous dance drama form in Kerala. The themes used in this dance form are religious in nature which deals with the epics. It is a dance which has a lot of similarities to both Ramanattom and Krishnanattom. This dance is performed only by men who also portray women characters. The language of the songs used in Kathakali is a combination of Malayalam and Sanskrit called as Manipravaalam.
The dance starts in the dusk and goes throughout the night and is performed in front of Kalivilakku (Kali – dance, Vilakku – lamp). Traditionally the lamp is used as a means of light when the play is performed. The artists introduce themselves in the play by singing a song. The costumes used are heavy and large as well the makeup is also very elaborate. The makeup used is made from various mineral ores and pigments. The makeup used by the artist is also classified into five basic sets namely Pacha, Kathi, Kari, Thaddi and Minukku. Its one of the main and famous dance forms in Kerala.
The backwater is a peculiar feature of this beautiful state. The houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a memorable experience. These houseboats are also called as Ketuvallam which literally means ‘bundle’ or ‘package boat’. The words ‘Kettu’ which means ‘tied with ropes’, and ‘vallam’ which means ‘boat’. Kerala backwaters form an economical means of transit. The backwater network includes five large lakes including 1500 kms of canals both - manmade and natural, extending to the entire length of Kerala.
The houseboats are manufacture in Alleppey with an entire clan of artisans. The houseboat consists of an open lounge, with one or sometimes even two bedrooms, a kitchen and a balcony. The houseboat crew is comprised of a cook, a captain and an oarsman. There is a/c and non-a/c houseboats, the facilities in the houseboat are spacious living area, bedroom with beautiful wood carvings and attached bathrooms, well furnished kitchen and a balcony. At night times traditional lanterns are used as a means of light in the houseboat. The view of the houseboat is mind-blowing during the night time.
The snake boat races are the thrilling festivals which are held in Alleppey, Kerala. It is held once in a year and is just before Onam usually in the month of August or September. They are popularly called as Chundan Vallams which means Snake Boats in Malayalam. The giant snake boats compete for the prestigious Nehru trophy. The snake boat races are held in several venues in Kerala, but the one’s held in Alleppey are the best known one. These boats are 100-120 feet long, which are made out of Aanjili wood. The boat has the capacity to carry nearly 90-100 sailors. The Chundan Vallam also has a record as the biggest water vessel used for sports purpose. The popular snake boat races which are held are Nehru Trophy, Indira Gandhi Boat Race, Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, Payippad Jalotsavam, etc.
Kerala overall is one the famous tourist destinations in India and is rightly called as the ‘God’s Own Country’. It is one of the best places in India particularly for nature lovers.
