The Real Essence of Kerala – Venice of the East

The Flavour of Kerala

The real flavor of Kerala comes out in full bloom during the festivals and charismatic boat races. Boat race in Kerala is an experience that one should not miss while in the state. This is a race that is symbolic of the state and you will not get to witness anything like this in other Indian states. Festivals in Kerala too are a grand affair where the entire state is decorated in its full glory. When the manual adornments join hands with nature’s endowments, the result is nothing short of a visual treat.

Boat race in Kerala

The Unparalleled Boat Race

Come to Kerala in August every year, it becomes the cynosure to all eyes due to the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race conducted in the state. Alleppey, the proud owner of magnificent backwaters play host to the boat races. It is home to numerous other boat races too, however the Nehru Trophy race is “The Race”, purely because of the popularity and the hundred odd pairs of hands that manoeuvre the oars in rhythmic fashion. Set against the breath-taking background of palm and coconut trees, the backwaters are filled with more than a dozen teams who stride on their boats with a song on their lips and passion in their hearts. It would be apt to say that the Nehru Trophy Boat Race rings a bell in many Keralite’s mind than the cricket tournaments in other parts of the country are crazy about. These races have earned such popularity that corporates sponsor for the race expenses and the prizes. Next time when you plan your trip to Kerala, ensure you are here during the second week of August, to watch this marvel on water.

Festivals – Congruence of Religion, Tradition and Values 

Two of the main festivals of the state are Onam and Vishu. Onam, celebrated during the month of September is when the entire state wears a floral look that is soothing to the eye. Celebrated as a ten day festival, every Keralite has a delicious floral carpet in front of her home to welcome King Mahabali who visits the state every year and blesses his people. Food and flowers complete this festival. During the tenth day, every home in Kerala enjoys a sumptuous lunch known as Onam Sadhya. Sometimes there are around 27 different types of dishes spread out on a big banana leaf. Sounds tasty, doesn’t it? Vishu on the other hand, is more subtle of the two and marks the beginning of a New Year for the Malayalees. In every house elders bless the youngsters and hand them over some money on a beetle leaf. This is known as Kaineetam. Crackers mark the celebration of Vishu.