As you likely know, Kerala, a state on India’s tropical Malabar Coast, has suffered unprecedented monsoon rains recently. Hundreds are dead, millions are displaced. The infrastructure is in shambles. But, there is no doubt that Kerala will rebuild – better than ever.
I am saddened by the devastation. We spent some time there a few years ago. A highlight of my three trips to India. The people, the cuisine, the scenery are beyond compare. Hugging the Arabian Sea, the area is a tropical paradise beyond compare. Colorful is an understatement. The palm trees, the water, everything shimmers under the equatorial sun.
Everyone waits in anticipation for the monsoon to arrive. The harsh, dry, unbearable hot season will finally be over. The monsoon will bring cooler weather and rain to bring the parched vegetation back to life. But sometimes, like this year the monsoon brings more that is wished for.
I am happy to share a few favorite pictures of one of India’s best-kept secrets.
What the four seasons of the year mean to the European, the one season of the monsoon means to the Indian. It is preceded by desolation; it brings with it hopes of spring; it has the fullness of summer and the fulfillment of autumn all in one.
― Khushwant Singh, I Shall Not Hear the Nightingale
Beautiful series Ron. Thanks for joining the challenge
Welcome, Tina. Thanks to all of you for reviving the challenge.
Beautiful shots to describe Kerala, Roy…
Thanks so much, Roy
Wonderful captures Ron. I especially like the opening shot, the boats, and the elephants with their mahouts on top. So sad for Kerala. We spent nearly three months in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, but never made it to Kerala. I do wish we had. Perhaps some day we’ll go and add some tourist $ to help them rebuild.
Alison
Alison, thanks for your comment. India is such a fascinating country. Have you seen much of northern India?
Not the far north. We spent 2 months travelling in Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra, and Varanasi. I would love to go back.
We visited the same areas too. Also spent time in Calcutta, my favorite. Went to the last Kumba Mela in Allahabad. An experience of a lifetime. Like you, I could go back, but there’s so many other places to visit.
So much world, so little time. Sigh.
Thanks from this colour “from another world”
Wonderful shots. I love the first one especially. I’ve only been to Rajasthan. Kerala looks like a different country. 🙂
Wow, wonderful post!
Thanks, C.S. I appreciate your commenting.
Stunning photographs !! 🙂