The world is filled with so many tourist spots and yet there is one among all of them that is honored with the title: God’s Own Country. The answer perhaps lies in the beauty of Kerala. And beauty is not just indicative of the environmental greatness of the place. Of course, the flora and fauna of any geographical location forms an essential part of its qualities, but there are other aspects as well that require proper attention.
Did you know that Kerala is one of the first states in India to form a welfare policy for the transgender community? Moreover, the state has made it clear that people belonging to the transgender community cannot be regarded as a member of “third gender” or “other gender” in government forms. The state-run hospitals have also been instructed to carry out gender reassignment surgeries free of cost.
Kerala has a relatively high level of Human Development Index, which means that the mode of life lived by the people there is relatively better than most other states in the country. This aspect can be noticed when you walk through the streets of Kerala and talk to the locals. Besides, the healthcare facilities provided by the state are very well-developed. In terms of education, the state has been doing extremely well with some of the best institutions in India being placed there.
But wait… you must be wondering why on earth we are discussing about the advancements in this state! The reason is pretty simple. When they tell you, it is “God’s Own Country”, you need to stop and ask whether that is the truth. God does not reside in physical beauty alone – God exists in the light and light exists through the presence of education, healthcare and everything else that makes life better. If you visit Kerala, you will be a part of this progress.
Photo by Mohit GuptaHaving said that, it is essential that we take a closer look at the beauty of the state. From the backwaters of Kerala to the hills in Munnar, the place has many interesting geographical beauties that one may choose to spend some time in. Kerala has a predominantly humid tropic climate. However, the eastern parts of the state are subject to deciduous and semi-evergreen forests.
Photo by Mohit GuptaThe wildlife found in the state is vast and exciting to take a tour of. It is, perhaps, owing to this very reason that Kerala has a large number of national parks, biosphere reserves, wildlife sanctuaries and tiger reserves. Places such as the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Eravikulum National Park, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Tiger Reserve deserve special mention in this context.
The people in Kerala have a very vibrant culture. Tourists would surely love to mingle in the local festivities celebrated there with great enthusiasm. One may cite the example of Padayani, which is a ritual theatre art form related to the goddess temples in the Central Travancore region of Kerala. All such theatrical exhibitions in Kerala provide a rare quality of visual treat. There is no way that a person would be able to forget the grand dramatic renditions in the course of their lives. Kathakali is another dance form in the southwestern region of Kerala that has become a special highlight for the tourism industry in the state. Needless to mention, Kathakali is a well-known dance form all around the globe.
Photo by Mohit GuptaOne of the best parts about visiting Kerala is the cuisine. From the basic appam to elaborate dishes with beef, Kerala has it all. If you are not a meat lover, you need not worry. There is a vast range of vegetarian dishes available as well. But, most importantly, the availability of seafood is bound to rope in all food lovers to the place. The sight of gigantic lobsters that turn a delectable red after being cooked, the crevices of their shells oozing with juices of the sweet meat is sure to make you go crazy with hunger. A spicy crab curry with your regular appam will also make your mouth water.
The best part about touring Kerala is the presence of a great environment that includes a proper modernized mix of the culture of the state along with its age-old venerated traditions.
Wherever in India you may choose to go, Kerala must surely be a part of your plan. You will most definitely have a fulfilling experience.
Written By Poonam Chatterjee
Week 10, March 2021
