Kerala: A Sailor’s Rendezvous with God's Own Country

Back waters of Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Some places leave an impression on the mind; others capture the heart forever. For me, Kerala has always been one such place—a land of enchanting beauty that has revealed itself in different shades through the various stages of my life.

The Chinese Fishing nets at Kochi

My first encounter with Kerala dates to the days immediately after completing college. As the train carrying me southward approached Kochi, it slowly rumbled over the iconic Thevara Bridge. I still remember standing by the window, captivated by the sight that unfolded before me. The shimmering waters below reflected the morning sunrise, fishing boats glided silently across the backwaters, and clusters of coconut palms swayed gently in the breeze. Neon lights of the ships and the buildings near the harbour appeared like a fairytale setting. It felt as though I had entered a different world—one where nature and human life existed in perfect harmony. It was my first encounter with the sea!

The pristine golden beach

Soon after arriving, I found myself mesmerized by the scenic beauty of Willingdon Island. Surrounded by serene waters and bustling maritime activity, the island possessed a unique charm. Ships from distant lands berthed alongside elegant waterfronts while the cool sea breeze carried the scent of salt and adventure. Going for a morning jog around the Naval Base on rainy mornings with other batchmates was very refreshing.The contrast between the island's calm landscapes and its vibrant port life created a memorable experience that remains vivid even today.

The Sailing Camp from Naval Academy in 1977

During the course of my training, I had the opportunity to participate in a two-week sailing camp. Aboard a ‘Whaler’ boat, we navigated the labyrinth of Kerala's backwaters all the way to Kollam and back by rowing and sailing. The journey took us through narrow canals lined with coconut groves, sleepy villages where life moved at an unhurried pace, and vast stretches of tranquil water that mirrored the sky. We would cook on the boat during the day buying coconut oil from local fishermen. Each sunrise painted the backwaters in shades of gold, while the evenings brought breathtaking sunsets that dissolved into the horizon. The rhythmic splash of oars, the whisper of the wind in the sails, and the endless greenery created a sense of peace that few places can offer. The backwaters were more than waterways; they were living landscapes that offered a unique glimpse into Kerala's soul.

The Santa Cruz Cathedral in Kochi

Years later, my association with Kerala continued through the sea. Serving aboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, I frequently sailed between Mumbai and Kochi. Each voyage offered spectacular views of Kerala's coastline. As the ship entered the Kochi harbour through the narrow channel, the lush green landscape seemed to emerge from the Arabian Sea like a grand welcome. The sight of coconut-fringed shores, tranquil estuaries, and distant church spires never failed to stir a sense of anticipation. Even after numerous visits, I found myself marvelling at the sheer beauty of the land, as the ship berthed alongside.

                                                         The Spice Gardens in Kerala

In later years, my travels took me deeper into the state's interior. The dense jungles and spice gardens of Thekkady, Munnar (sprawling tea  estates), and Alappuzha introduced me to the intoxicating fragrances of cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. The rolling hills, mist-covered forests, and abundant wildlife showcased nature at its finest. Equally fascinating were the religious and cultural landmarks of 

At the Padmanabhaswamy Temple at Thriuvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram and other parts of the state, where ancient temples, churches, and traditions reflected Kerala's rich heritage and spiritual depth. Exploring these places allowed me to appreciate not only Kerala's natural beauty but also the deep cultural roots that define its identity.

Sadya

No exploration of Kerala would be complete without experiencing its remarkable cuisine. Over the years, I had the pleasure of savouring many of its culinary delights. I developed a particular fondness for soft, lacy appams served with flavourful stews, while the traditional breakfast of Puttu and Kadala curry became a favourite whenever I travelled through the state. The grand Sadya, served on a banana leaf with its rich assortment of dishes, was a celebration of flavours and hospitality. Kerala's abundant seafood was another irresistible attraction, with fresh fish, prawns, crab, and other delicacies prepared using aromatic local spices and coconut. The famed biryanis of Kochi and the Malabar region added yet another dimension to this gastronomic journey. The distinctive aromas of curry leaves, coconut, pepper, and cardamom remain inseparable from my memories of Kerala. Every meal seemed to reflect the abundance of the land and the generosity of its people.

A Kathakali dancer with makeup

Equally memorable were the cultural experiences that enriched my travels. Among them, Kathakali and Kalarippayattu stood out as a magnificent expression of Kerala's artistic heritage. Watching performers in elaborate costumes and vibrant makeup narrate stories from ancient epics through intricate facial expressions and graceful gestures was a truly captivating experience. Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional percussion instruments, the performances revealed a level of discipline and artistry that commanded admiration. Temple festivals, local celebrations, and cultural gatherings offered further glimpses into Kerala's vibrant traditions and strengthened my appreciation for a society that has preserved its heritage while embracing modernity.

INS Vikrant -the aircraft carrier

The rapid pace of industrialization has placed Kerala among the front-runner states in India.INS Vikrant the modern aircraft carrier that was built at Cochin Shipyard Ltd has placed our country among a select few nations of the world having this capability.

                                                  Young ducklings in the backwaters

Kerala has been much more than a destination. It has been a companion through different chapters of my life—a place that has continuously amazed me with its beauty, culture, cuisine, and tranquillity. Whether viewed from a train crossing Thevara Bridge, a sailboat gliding through the backwaters, the deck of INS Vikrant, or the winding roads of Thekkady and Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala remains truly deserving of its title: God's Own Country. Its landscapes, flavours, traditions, and people have left an indelible mark on my memory, ensuring that every thought of Kerala evokes a sense of nostalgia, admiration, and gratitude.