My birthplace

I was born in the South part of India, in a region called Kerala. Kerala is a land of great natural beauty, and rightfully we, Malayalees, claim it as God’s own country. Crowned on the east by high mountains, bordered on the west by the Arabian sea, Kerala boasts some of the most majestic natural beauty in the world. Part of the mosaic of Indian culture, Keralian culture has a flavor all its own. Marked by the language, Malayalam, we Malayalees are a proud bunch. Tempered by centuries of trade and exposure to outside world, the culture is exceptionally welcoming to people of different faiths or ethnicities. No matter where you settle, you will find yourself in the middle of a close-knit community, where children address the lady next door as "aunt", housewives frequently shares recipes and neighbors are extensions of the immediate family.

In our society education is a strict measure of an individual’s achievement, while humility, hard work and community service is extolled. Elders, such as parents, teachers and priests are afforded the greatest respect amongst us. Once splintered by the caste system, today’s Kerala is one of the most communally tranquil areas of India. It is not uncommon to find a Hindu temple, a church and a mosque near to each other. The many fairs and festivals that come with this religious harmony form an integral part of our heritage and my early childhood. In this land of mystic beauty, ethnic harmony, rich heritage and gracious hospitality, one can always find themselves enchanted, welcomed and engaged. When visiting a Malayalee home, even if unannounced, a feast is, at most, an hour away. True to the legendary spice tradition, the staples of rice and side dishes will entice the taste buds, and occasionally the tear buds.