nature of kerala essay

Essay on Kerala

Students are often asked to write an essay on Kerala in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Kerala

Kerala: the introduction.

Kerala, a state in India, is known as ‘God’s Own Country’. It’s located in the southern part of the country and is famous for its natural beauty.

Geographical Features

Kerala is blessed with unique geographical features. It has high mountains, deep valleys, and long coastlines. The Western Ghats and Arabian Sea add to its charm.

Culture and Tradition

Kerala’s culture is rich and diverse. It’s famous for its classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The Malayalam language is widely spoken here.

Kerala’s economy thrives on agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. It’s known for its spices, coconuts, and tea plantations.

Kerala, with its diverse culture and stunning natural beauty, is a gem of India. It’s a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

Also check:

10 Lines on Kerala
Paragraph on Kerala
Speech on Kerala

250 Words Essay on Kerala

Introduction.

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country”, is a state in the southern part of India. Renowned for its unique geographical features, Kerala boasts a blend of serene beaches, tranquil backwaters, lush hill stations, and exotic wildlife, which makes it a paradise for tourists.

Cultural Richness

Kerala’s culture is deeply rooted in a history of diverse influences, from Dravidian and Aryan cultures to Arab and European. The state is famous for its traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The Malayalam literature, enriched by the works of writers like Thakazhi and M.T. Vasudevan Nair, is another cultural treasure of Kerala.

Economic Activities

The economy of Kerala is largely service-based, with services contributing to around 64% of the state’s GDP. It is also a major hub for spices, tea, and rubber production. The state’s literacy rate and Human Development Index are the highest in India, reflecting its emphasis on education and social welfare.

Environmental Conservation

Kerala’s environmental conservation efforts are commendable. The state is home to numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It also leads in sustainable practices, with projects like the Silent Valley National Park, which serves as a testament to its commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Kerala stands as a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and social welfare. Its achievements in education, health, and environmental conservation set a benchmark for other states in India. Kerala truly embodies the essence of “God’s Own Country”.

500 Words Essay on Kerala

Kerala, also known as ‘God’s Own Country’, is a beautiful state located in the southern region of India. It is renowned worldwide for its mesmerizing natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse traditions. This essay aims to provide an in-depth understanding of Kerala, its unique attributes, and its significant contributions to India.

Geographical Splendor

Kerala is blessed with a unique geographical location, nestled between the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on the east. The state’s topography is characterized by a network of 44 rivers, serene backwaters, lush hill stations, and stunning beaches. Kerala’s biodiversity is another remarkable feature, with two national parks, 12 wildlife sanctuaries, and several reserve forests, home to numerous endemic and endangered species.

Cultural Heritage

Kerala’s cultural heritage is as diverse and vibrant as its geography. The state is a fusion of Dravidian and Aryan cultures, which is evident in its music, dance, cuisine, and traditional art forms. Kathakali and Mohiniyattam are two of the most famous classical dance forms originating from Kerala. The state’s festivals, such as Onam and Vishu, are celebrated with great enthusiasm and reflect the rich cultural ethos of the region.

Economy and Development

Kerala’s economy is primarily service-oriented, with tertiary sector activities contributing to over 60% of the state’s gross domestic product. The state is a major exporter of spices, coir products, marine products, and handlooms. Kerala also has the highest Human Development Index (HDI) in India, indicating its superior living conditions and social development.

Education and Literacy

Education in Kerala is another area of commendable achievement. The state boasts a literacy rate of 96.2%, the highest in India, thanks to its effective literacy programmes. Kerala’s educational system emphasizes quality and inclusivity, with a focus on holistic development and critical thinking.

Healthcare and Social Welfare

In terms of healthcare, Kerala sets an example for the rest of the country. The state’s healthcare system is well-structured and accessible, ensuring a high standard of health and longevity for its residents. Kerala’s social welfare programs are equally impressive, ensuring the wellbeing of its most vulnerable citizens.

In conclusion, Kerala is a state that beautifully blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and progressive social policies. Its achievements in education, healthcare, and social welfare are a testament to the state’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. Kerala truly embodies the essence of ‘God’s Own Country’, offering a glimpse into a unique blend of nature, culture, and development.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Essay on Culture of Kerala
Essay on Cultural Programme
Essay on Heritage Handloom

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

blog , Travel Guide

Exploring the enchanting beauty of kerala: god’s own country.

Welcome to Kerala, a state nestled in the southwestern corner of India, often referred to as “God’s Own Country.” Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Kerala offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers from all walks of life. In this blog post, we will delve into the enchanting beauty of Kerala, highlighting its captivating backwaters, lush greenery, vibrant festivals, delectable cuisine, and much more. So, pack your bags and join us on this virtual journey to discover the wonders of Kerala!

History and Culture of Kerala

One of the most notable aspects of Kerala’s culture is its diverse religious practices, which include Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The state is also home to several historical monuments and landmarks, including the Fort Kochi, the Mattancherry Palace, and the Padmanabhapuram Palace.

Kerala, a state located in the southwestern region of India, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence indicating human settlements dating back to the Neolithic era.

Overall, the history and culture of Kerala are a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity and offer visitors a unique glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.

If you’re planning to visit Kerala, be sure to explore its rich cultural history by visiting the many Kerla places that showcase its unique heritage. From museums and art galleries to ancient temples and palaces, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Traditional Food and Cuisine of Kerala

One of the most unique aspects of Kerala’s cuisine is the use of coconut in almost every dish. The state is famous for its coconut-based curries, chutneys, and snacks. Another staple in Kerala’s cuisine is the use of various spices, including pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon, which give the dishes a rich and flavorful taste.

When it comes to food, Kerala is a true gastronomic delight. The state offers a rich and diverse cuisine that is characterized by its distinct flavors, spices, and ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in Kerala include appam, dosa, puttu, and idiyappam. Kerala is also famous for its seafood dishes, such as fish curry, prawn fry, and crab roast.

Moreover, Kerala also hosts several food festivals throughout the year that are a treat for foodies. The Malabar Food Fest, Onam Sadya, and the Cochin Carnival are some of the famous food festivals that you can attend during your visit to Kerala.

If you are a food lover, then you cannot miss visiting Kerala. The state has a variety of restaurants and food joints that offer authentic Kerala cuisine. Some of the must-visit places include Malabar Junction in Kochi, Paragon in Kozhikode, and Zam Zam in Thiruvananthapuram.

Art Forms and Festivals in Kerala

Kerala is famous for its vibrant art forms and diverse festivals that are an essential part of the state’s cultural heritage. The traditional art forms of Kerala, such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kalaripayattu, and Theyyam, are famous worldwide for their unique styles and techniques. These art forms have been practiced for centuries and are an important part of the social and cultural life of the people of Kerala.

One of the most popular art forms in Kerala is Kathakali, a dance drama that tells stories through intricate movements and expressions. The colorful costumes and elaborate makeup of the performers are a visual treat for the audience.

To witness the vibrant art forms and colorful festivals of Kerala, visit Kerala places like Fort Kochi, Thrissur, and Kozhikode. Kerala has a rich cultural heritage.

Apart from these classical art forms, Kerala is also famous for its traditional folk art forms such as Theyyam, a ritualistic performance that combines dance, music, and drama, and Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form. Other festivals such as Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Aranmula Boat Race are also celebrated with equal fervor and enthusiasm.

Natural Beauty of Kerala

For adventure enthusiasts, Kerala offers plenty of options such as trekking, hiking, and camping in its lush forests. Munnar, a hill station located in the Western Ghats, is a paradise for nature lovers. The picturesque tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic trails offer a perfect retreat for those who seek tranquility amidst nature. In addition to the above, Kerala’s

Kerala, a land of ancient traditions and customs, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. One of the must-visit Kerala places is the backwaters, which offer a serene and calming experience. The famous Vembanad Lake and Alleppey backwaters are a treat to the eyes, and one can enjoy a houseboat ride and witness the picturesque beauty of the state.

Kerala’s beaches are another attraction that one should not miss. Kovalam Beach, Varkala Beach, and Marari Beach are some of the most popular beaches in the state.

Ayurveda and Wellness Tourism in Kerala

When it comes to wellness tourism, Kerala is undoubtedly one of the best destinations in India. The ancient science of Ayurveda is deeply rooted in the culture of Kerala, and people from all over the world come here to experience the healing power of Ayurveda.

The state has several Ayurvedic centers and resorts that provide authentic Ayurvedic treatments. Many of these centers also offer yoga and meditation sessions, which further enhance the benefits of Ayurveda.

Kerala places a great emphasis on Ayurveda and has a wide range of treatments and therapies on offer. These treatments are natural, non-invasive, and focus on healing the body, mind, and soul. Ayurveda massages, herbal therapies, and yoga are some of the popular treatments available.

Some of the most popular wellness retreats in Kerala include Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort, Ayurveda Yoga Villa, Kalari Kovilakom, and Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village. These retreats are located in scenic locations and provide a peaceful and tranquil environment for visitors.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

Kerala is not only famous for its natural beauty but also its vast range of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. These protected areas are home to a variety of rare and endangered species, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and several species of deer. Visitors can take a jeep safari through the sanctuary to spot animals in their natural habitat.

The Periyar National Park is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Kerala. Located in the Western Ghats, the park is home to tigers, elephants, bison, and several species of deer.

Another must-visit destination for wildlife lovers is the Silent Valley National Park.

Apart from these, Kerala has several other wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.

Famous Tourist Destinations in Kerala

When it comes to tourism in India, Kerla places are some of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world. With its lush green forests, tranquil backwaters, serene beaches, and beautiful landscapes, Kerla is a true paradise for nature lovers.

Some of the most famous tourist destinations in Kerala include:

1. Munnar: This scenic hill station is famous for its tea plantations, cool climate, and breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

2. Alleppey: The Venice of the East, Alleppey is famous for its serene backwaters and houseboat cruises.

3. Kochi: Also known as Cochin, this historic city is famous for its Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture and spice markets.

4. Thekkady: Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady is famoius for its rich biodiversity and elephant sightings.

5. Kovalam: One of the most popular beaches in India, Kovalam is famoius for its clear waters and golden sand.

6. Wayanad: This scenic district is popular for its tea and coffee plantations, wildlife reserves, and picturesque hills.

7. Varkala: A quiet seaside town, Varkala is famous for its stunning cliff-top views of the Arabian Sea.

These are just a few of the many Kerla places you can visit. With so much to see and do, a visit to Kerala is sure to be a truly unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and head to Kerala for your next vacation!

Flora And Fauna Of Kerala

Kerala, a state located in the southwestern part of India, is known for its rich biodiversity and lush green landscapes. The region’s diverse flora and fauna are a result of its tropical climate, abundant rainfall, and the presence of the Western Ghats mountain range. Here are some notable examples of flora and fauna found in Kerala:

Tropical Evergreen Forests: Kerala is home to dense tropical evergreen forests that are characterized by a wide variety of tree species. Some prominent trees include rosewood, teak, ebony, jackfruit, mahogany, and bamboo.
Mangrove Forests: Kerala has several mangrove forests along its coastal areas. These unique ecosystems are important for maintaining the coastal ecosystem balance and are home to species like Avicennia and Rhizophora.
Medicinal Plants: Kerala has a rich tradition of Ayurveda, and many medicinal plants are found in the region. Plants like Aloe vera, Neem, Brahmi, Tulsi, and Ashwagandha have been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
Spice Plantations: Kerala is famous for its spice plantations, including pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and turmeric. These spices are not only essential ingredients in local cuisine but are also traded globally.
Orchids: Kerala boasts a wide variety of orchids, with over 120 species found in the region. The beautiful and delicate flowers of orchids make them highly valued among plant enthusiasts.
Elephants: Kerala has a significant population of Asian elephants, which are often spotted in wildlife reserves like Periyar National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. These majestic creatures are an important part of Kerala’s wildlife.
Tigers: Though critically endangered, tigers can still be found in Kerala’s protected areas. The Periyar Tiger Reserve is one of the prime habitats for tigers in the state.
Birds: Kerala is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide range of resident and migratory bird species. Some popular birding spots include Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, and the backwaters of Alleppey.
Reptiles: Kerala is home to various reptiles, including king cobras, pythons, vipers, and several species of turtles and tortoises.
Marine Life: The coastal areas of Kerala support a diverse marine ecosystem. You can find marine species like dolphins, whales, turtles, and a variety of fish in the Arabian Sea along the state’s coastline.

These are just a few examples of the diverse flora and fauna found in Kerala. The region’s natural beauty and biodiversity make it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The southernmost Indian state, Kerala, is known for its scenic beauty and green ambience. The green rich landscape of this destination also blessed with a wide range of flora and fauna. The natural habitat of the state makes it a haven for different animal and bird species. The landscape of Kerala encompasses highland deciduous, evergreen forests and partially evergreen forests in different parts of the state. Besides, this destination has humid tropical climate due its unique terrain and elevation. These unique features of Kerala make it the land of highly important biodiversity in the world. Explore the exotic flora and fauna of the state through Karmic.

A State With Natural Forests

The major biodiversity area of Kerala lies in the middle of the evergreen forests particularly in the eastern districts of the state. Some of the coastal areas of this state also occupy such biodiversity tracts. Since most of the regions in this part are under cultivation, not much wildlife registered at the coastal areas. Kerala has more than 9000 sq. km of natural forests out of which nearly 7500 sq km comes under the non-plantation area. Approximately 3400 sq. km area covers both wet evergreen and semi evergreen forests. Nearly 100 sq km areas of this state cover dry deciduous forests while the moist tropical region sprawled in an area of almost 4000 sq. km.

Kerala is also famous for Shola forests and nearly 24% of the area of this state is covered by such forests. It can be seen mainly at the high elevated areas of the state. There are two wetland areas in the state, Vembanad-Kol and Lake Sasthamkotta. Both of them are considered to be listed in the famous Ramsar Convention. Above all, Kerala has several protected areas including the well known Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

The windward mountain regions situated to the eastern part of Kerala covers moist and tropical dry forests. It is also a part of Western Ghats and famous for its rich flora including anjili, mullumurikku, sonokeling (Indian Rosewood) and Cassia. With more than thousand species of trees, this area has a dense cover. Some of the common flora in this region includes bamboo, palm, wild cardamom, black pepper and Vetiver Grass with amazing aroma.

Just like its flora, Kerala is also famous for its rich fauna.

This South Indian state is blessed with a wide array of mammals such as Asian Elephant, leopard, Bengal Tiger and Grizzleed Giant Squirrel. The Silent Valley is a famous national park in the state which is located in the Kundali Hills. It houses many endangered species such as Indian Bison, Indian Sloth bear, Lion tailed Macaque etc. Some of the common mammal species registered in Kerala is Indian Porcupine, Flying Squirrel, Swamp Lynx, Common Palm Civet, boar and some species of monkeys.

Kerala is home to a wide range of reptiles and some of the common reptiles registered in this state include King cobra, python, viper, crocodiles and species of turtles.

Kerala is a paradise for birdwatchers because of the wide range of bird species available in the state. This scenic destination is blessed with nearly 453 species of birds. You can easily watch them by planning a walking tour through the popular bird sanctuaries in Kerala. Some of the avian species that you can spot in these sanctuaries include the Great Hornbill (Zoological Name- Buceros bicornis), are Oriental Bay Owl, Kingfisher, Woodpecker, Sri Lanka Frogmouth (Zoological Name- Batrachostomus moniliger), Jungle Fowl, Peafowl, Hill Mayna, Indian Cormorant, Black hooded Oriole, Bulbul (Zoological Name- Pycnnotidae), Alexandrine Parakeet and Black Drongoes, You can also see some species of ducks in this state.

Aquatic Species

With numerous rivers, lakes, sea and ponds, Kerala is rich in aquatic species. The backwaters of the state have some freshwater fish. A stinging fish named Kadu is also seen in it. A brackish water species named choottachi is also registered in this state. In addition, many aquatic species are natives of the lakes and waterways of Kerala.

Preservation Of Flora And Fauna

Although Kerala is a small Indian state, it boasts exotic species of flora and fauna. However, unplanned urbanization depletes the rich forest reserve of the state. After realizing the possible repercussions of this situation, the government announced several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks for the preservation of the flora and fauna. Some of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in the state are Periyar Wildlife sanctuary, Neyyar wildlife sanctuary, Peppara Sanctuary, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary and Aralam wildlife sanctuary. The two national parks in the state are Eravikulam National Park and Silent Valley National Park.

Status of Flora ( Published By ENVIS Centre: Kerala State of Environment and Related Issues )

The floral diversity of Kerala can be categorized into three.

Wild and Indigenous
Indigenous and Cultivated
Exotic, yet cultivated or wild

Wild and indigenous floral elements are found in natural forests and other natural ecosystems. They offer a variety of products and services to mankind, including medicines and non wood forest produces. The natural forests are also rich in different types of traditionally used wood items.

Indigenous and cultivated plant varieties were once common in our agricultural fields and homesteads. These areas were also rich with a variety of indigenous rice, coconut, areca nut, pepper, ginger, turmeric, tapioca, plantains etc. In the last few decades many of these varieties have been neglected or ignored with the introduction of high-yielding hybrid varieties. In addition to this weeds and pests introduced into the state along with exotic crops replaced many indigenous varieties. Thus, the agrobiodiversity in the state has become a mixture of both indigenous and exotic species.

Flora of Kerala comprises of a total of 11,840 taxa of plants (SoE,2007). Among them, angiosperms comprises the dominant group, composed of 4968 taxa, of which about 900 are those endemic to Western Ghats. Among the Western Ghats endemics, 252 taxa are those confined to Kerala State.The flora comprises of 866 species of algae, 4800 species of fungi, 520 species of lichens, 350 species of bryophytes, 332 species of pteridophytes, 4 species of gymnosperms and 4968 species of angiosperms or flowering plants. Habitat wise, algal species are mostly confined to aquatic or damp conditions whereas the other plant groups in the State ate mostly terrestrial in habit. Forest areas being well protected.

Habit or life form-wise, there are herbs, shrubs, trees, lianas, epiphytes, lithophytes, saprophytes, etc. within the plant kingdom. Based on this the habitats are also different for different species. Table gives the details of the representation of different plant groups in the flora of Kerala. Apart from this there are hundreds of cultivated species either on plantations or crop levels or as garden plants, ornamentals, etc. There are also 850 species and varieties of cultivars growing the State with their origin in mostly tropical parts of the globe. Due to various reasons, many of them are in various threat categories of IUCN Red List of flora and fauna (2004), prepared at global level.

Total Number of Plant Taxa Belonging to Different Groups Recorded from Kerala

Wildlife Sanctuaries Of Kerala

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Peechi – Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Thattekkadu Bird Sanctuary
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmony Wild life Sanctuary
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary
Kurinjimala Sanctuary
Choolannur Pea Fowl Sanctuary
Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary
Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary

National Parks

Eravikulam National Park
Silent Valley National Park
Pampadum Shola National Park
Mathikettan Shola National Park
Anamudi Shola National Park

Luxury Force Traveller Van Rental Kochi

SOMETIMES JOURNEY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE DESTINATION

WHEN THE JOURNEY IS COMFORTABLE, THE DESTINATION LOOKS EVEN MORE ENCHANTING

Hire Luxury Tempo Traveller In Kerala

Luxury passenger van / traveller rental & hire.

Karmic Luxury Force Tempo Traveller Rental Kochi. Enjoy Amazing Tours Around Kerala With A Great Team Of Expert Chauffeurs.

Karmic Luxury Travel Service Offers Vans, Traveller & Coaches For Group Transportation In Kochi, ( Cochin ), Kerala For Best Fares.

Transpire House 7, Tel Exchange Road, Maradu, Kochi - 682304

Human by Nature, and the beauty of Kerala

by Gloria Apara | Mar 10, 2020 | India | 1 comment

share
save

A smiling face in a shaking head over the green palm trees background. That’s the first thought I have every time I think about Kerala.

The land which has totally changed my way of experiencing India.

I had the great opportunity to explore the region of Kerala with the Kerala Blog Express 5 th edition and within this trip, I gathered some of the best memories in travel I have made until today during this trip.

This was not my first time in India, it was actually the third, and the second time in the same year I was going back for more. For more experiences, for more beauty, more delicious food, and the most, more smiles!

This article is published in partnership with the Kerala Tourism board to share with you their latest campaign, Human by Nature, and as I’m writing these words, I have a big smile on my face as I remember my time exploring Kerala and thinking about its people.

Kerala’s cultural diversity

Kerala is a diverse land in many aspects, and as a traveler is a delight to be able to see how alive its culture is.

Everywhere you go you see people living under their traditions, women wearing the white and golden Sarees, men wearing their Doti, and several religious celebrations being part at different times of the year; Kerala is the land where Hindus, Muslim, and Christian live together and in peace.

The first time you see the Theyyam or the Muttappan is impressive, and if you have the chance to attend a demonstration of Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala, you will respect even more the culture and traditions developed in this area hundreds of years ago.

I was very surprised to know that more than 93% of the population in Kerala are literate, and they speak Malayalam, a language derived from Tamil that is 1100 years old or older.

Kerala is the land where Ayurveda was born, and you can spend several days to heal your body and reconnect doing an ayurvedic treatment retreat, or you can just indulge having a Shirodhara oil ayurvedic massage in the evening after touring the region.

Kerala and its natural beauty

When most people think about India the first images coming to their minds are about the Taj Mahal, sarees, and spicy food.

During my previous trips, this was part of the image I’ve had about India, as I was mostly traveling in the Northern areas.

The first hour in Kerala was mind-blowing! The scenario was of a very green road while driving out of Thiruvananthapuram airport, this was already very different from the other areas of India I’ve previously traveled.

Kerala’s nature is diverse, and you can be at the beach enjoying the sun and palm trees in the morning and later in the day walking through the tea plantations in Munnar.

One of the most touching experiences in Kerala was sleeping in a boat driving through the backwaters, where I could watch the most beautiful sunset and hear the birds while seeing all the life happening in and near the river.

This and so much more is what nature is in Kerala and I’m sure it will bring the best memories to your own trip!

People in Kerala

During my travels, I have encountered few places on Earth where I feel so welcomed as in Kerala.

Because India, in general, is a country where one of the key ingredients for the perfect memory formula is the interactions with its people.

Indians are one of the friendliest people with foreigners and travelers and it can be even a bit overwhelming the level of kindness they are able to have with someone new. I can’t tell how many selfies I have with people I talked to during my daily tours!

But especially in Kerala, people smile at you openly and with so much kindness in their eyes, that is hard to forget them.

I can only feel a great warm feeling in my heart every time I think about the dances, the laughs and the unique conversations I had with total strangers.

Kerala’s people are used to supporting each other and here, responsible tourism takes an important part in regional development. Communities are working together to preserve their culture and traditions and share them with visitors in homestays and real-life experiences tours.

I regret not spending more time in Kerala and staying in a local home for few days to be able to experience closely their way of living, exchanging stories and even perhaps learning to prepare a deliciously spicy curry!

People in Kerala are proud of who they are, and they don’t doubt in sharing everything with someone else. They love to show you their culture and make you feel part of them even if it’s just for a short time.

A trip to Kerala it’s so unique thanks to its people.

Kerala is green, wild and with so much natural beauty I had the feeling I could explore this area for a longer time.

Traveling in Kerala was revitalizing to me. It reminded me how important it is to keep the connection with your roots, embrace them and exalt them as they are part of who you are.

The land of kind people with big smiling eyes, the land who put tears in my eyes while saying goodbye to a land that has connected me with so much happiness, and remind me we are all the same kind of spices, we are all Humans.

I wish you can explore this region and see with your own eyes, God’s own country and its people.

No related posts.

Gloria Apara

Writer | Digital Content Creator

I’m Gloria, the creator of Nomadic Chica, with a passion for Travel, Coffee, and Asian food.

Growing up in Santiago Chile and dreaming of travel and international exploration. I have set out my life to make my dreams come true.

Having traveled through Asia, Europe, and South America, for the last 20 years, I have a wealth of travel knowledge and experience to share. NomadicChica.com was created to inspire others to travel and empower solo female travels with knowledge.

Love this article, This is so amazing blog post. This place is so nice and such a human nature beauty of Kerala. That’s sounds is so great. Thanks for sharing your information.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Hi! I’m Gloria, a serious travel addicted from Chile, passionate about going out of my comfort zone, trying delicious food, beautiful destinations and Luxury Places.

I’m here to hopefully inspire you enough to make your own travel dreams true!

My Podcast in Spanish

Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — India — Kerala – The Land of Culture

Kerala – The Land of Culture

Categories: India Vacation

About this sample

Words: 758 |

Published: Jan 4, 2019

Words: 758 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

Expert in: Geography & Travel Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

5 pages / 2581 words

3 pages / 1235 words

5 pages / 2324 words

2 pages / 731 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

The French and Indian War had profound effects for both the British Empire and the American colonists. It is often seen as the source of much of the resentment between the English government and the colonists that eventually led [...]

Republic Day is a momentous occasion in the history of India, celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor on the 26th of January each year. It marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950, [...]

The Sali Indian Creation Story is a captivating narrative that delves into the origins of the world and humanity according to the beliefs of the Sali people. This ancient tale is rich in symbolism and mythology, offering [...]

India defines diversity, thus diversity is seen in every aspect of Indian life starting from food & clothing to customs & traditions. It is reflected in Indian marriages as well. In Indian society marriage is a highly [...]

Climate change refers to the disruption of weather patterns due to the change in chemical balance of the ecosystem. It is mainly caused by greenhouse gases and other land and air pollutants that are present predominantly due to [...]

Dharma is a word with a diverse set of meanings. To some extent it can be referred as an ever changing duty based on the surrounding environment and people. ” It is a collection of principles that needs to be observed and [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

Tourism in Kerala: A Comprehensive Overview

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Tourism in Kerala is growing year-on-year amongst both domestic tourists and international tourists. But what is tourism in Kerala all about and why is it such big business for the Indian economy? Lets take a deeper look at the tourism industry in Kerala…

The geography of Kerala

The tourism industry in kerala, why people travel to kerala, most popular types of tourism in kerala, most popular tourist attractions in kerala, what types of tourists travel to kerala, crime and safety in kerala, required budget to visit kerala, general tips for visiting kerala, 10 interesting facts about tourism in kerala, 10 faqs about tourism in kerala, tourism in kerala- to conclude, tourism in kerala .

Kerala is the beautiful southern state of India known as “God’s Own Country”. Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, attracting millions of visitors each year with its serene backwaters, pristine beaches, lush green forests , and rich cultural heritage. This tiny state is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, wildlife, and unique traditions that make it a must-visit destination for travellers from all over the world and making tourism in Kerala an important industry.

In this article about tourism in Kerala, we will explore some of the top tourist attractions here and provide tips on how to plan a memorable trip to this fascinating part of India. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, tourism in Kerala has something to offer everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of tourism in Kerala!

Kerala is a state in the southwestern region of India. It is situated on the Malabar Coast and is bordered by Karnataka to the north and northeast, Tamil Nadu to the east and south, and the Arabian Sea to the west. The state covers an area of 38,863 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 34 million people.

The success of tourism in Kerala is largely attributed to its geography . The geography of Kerala is characterised by its diverse landscapes, including mountains, hills, valleys, backwaters, and beaches. The Western Ghats , a mountain range that runs parallel to the coast, forms the eastern boundary of the state. The highest peak in Kerala, Anamudi , is located in the Western Ghats and stands at an elevation of 2,695 meters.

The coastal region of Kerala is dotted with backwaters, lagoons, and estuaries that are formed by the network of interconnected canals and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. The backwaters are a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse array of flora and fauna, including a variety of fish, birds, and aquatic plants.

The state also has a number of rivers , including the Periyar, the Bharathapuzha, and the Pamba. These rivers originate in the Western Ghats and flow westwards towards the Arabian Sea.

In addition to its natural features, Kerala is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to a diverse population that includes Malayalis, Tamilians, Kannadigas, and other ethnic groups. The state is also renowned for its cuisine, which is known for its use of coconut, rice, and spices. Overall, the geography of Kerala plays a significant role in shaping the culture , economy, and way of life of the people who call it home.

Kerala is a popular tourist destination in India, known for its beaches, backwaters, hill stations, and cultural heritage. Here are some statistics on the tourism industry in Kerala:

In 2019, Kerala received 1.96 crore (19.6 million) domestic and foreign tourists, according to the Kerala Tourism Department.
The total revenue generated from tourism in Kerala in 2019 was estimated to be around Rs. 45,010 crore (approximately $6.1 billion USD).
The average length of stay for foreign tourists in Kerala is around 14 days, while domestic tourists stay for an average of 3-4 days.
The most popular tourist destinations in Kerala are the backwaters of Alappuzha, the hill station of Munnar, the beaches of Kovalam, and the cultural city of Kochi.
Tourism in Kerala provides employment to around 15.7% of the state’s population, with around 1.5 million people working directly or indirectly in the industry.

Tourism in Kerala is relatively diverse and people travel to Kerala for a variety of reasons, including its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. Here are some of the main reasons why people travel to Kerala:

Natural beauty : Kerala is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its backwaters, beaches, and lush green landscapes. The state is also home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that offer visitors the chance to see a variety of flora and fauna.
Ayurveda and wellness: Kerala is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies, which attract visitors from all over the world. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that uses natural herbs and remedies to promote health and wellbeing.
Cultural heritage: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its art, architecture, music, dance, and festivals. Visitors can explore ancient temples, palaces, and museums to learn more about the state’s history and culture.
Cuisine: Kerala is famous for its delicious cuisine, which features a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are prepared with locally sourced ingredients and traditional spices.
Adventure activities: Kerala offers a range of adventure activities , including trekking, rafting, kayaking, and paragliding. The state’s hilly terrain and scenic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
Beaches : Kerala has a long coastline with several beautiful beaches that are popular with tourists. Some of the most famous beaches in Kerala include Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai.

The most popular types of tourism in Kerala are:

Backwater tourism: Kerala’s backwaters, a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes, are a major tourist attraction. Visitors can take a houseboat ride or a canoe tour to explore the backwaters.
Hill station tourism: Kerala has several hill stations, such as Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady, which are popular for their scenic beauty and pleasant weather.
Beach tourism: Kerala has a long coastline and several beautiful beaches, such as Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai, which are popular for water sports and beach activities.
Wildlife tourism : Kerala has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park, which are popular for wildlife safaris and nature walks.
Ayurvedic tourism : Kerala is known for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and therapies, which are popular among tourists seeking rejuvenation and wellness.
Cultural tourism: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, and tourists can explore the state’s art, music, and dance forms, such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and visit historical monuments and museums.
Adventure tourism : Kerala offers several adventure activities, such as trekking, camping, kayaking, and parasailing, which are popular among adventure enthusiasts.
Eco-tourism: Kerala has several eco-tourism destinations, such as Gavi and Thenmala, which are popular for their eco-friendly activities and sustainable tourism practices.

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala that make tourism in Kerala such big business:

Backwaters : The backwaters of Kerala are a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, and lakes that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. Visitors can take a houseboat ride through the backwaters to experience the serene and tranquil environment.
Beaches : Kerala has several beautiful beaches along its long coastline, including Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai. These beaches offer visitors the chance to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Hill stations : Kerala has several hill stations that are popular with tourists, including Munnar, Wayanad, and Thekkady. These hill stations are known for their scenic beauty, tea plantations, and wildlife.
Fort Kochi : Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood in the city of Kochi that is known for its colonial architecture, art galleries, and spice markets. Visitors can also explore the famous Chinese fishing nets and enjoy the local cuisine.
Kathakali : Kathakali is a traditional dance form that originated in Kerala and is known for its elaborate costumes and makeup. Visitors can watch Kathakali performances at various theaters and cultural centers.
Ayurveda : erala is known for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies. Visitors can experience Ayurvedic massages, therapies, and treatments at various Ayurveda centers and resorts.
Wildlfe sanctuaries: Kerala has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Periyar National Park, Silent Valley National Park, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. These sanctuaries offer visitors the chance to see a variety of animals and birds in their natural habitat.

Tourism in Kerala attracts a diverse range of tourists from different parts of India and around the world. Here are some of the types of tourists who travel to Kerala:

Nature lovers : Kerala is known for its natural beauty, including its backwaters, beaches, hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries. Nature lovers are drawn to Kerala’s serene and tranquil environment.
Cultural enthusiasts: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its art, architecture, music, dance, and festivals. Cultural enthusiasts are drawn to Kerala’s temples, palaces, museums, and traditional performing arts.
Wellness seekers : Kerala is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and wellness therapies. Wellness seekers are drawn to Kerala’s Ayurvedic spas and resorts that offer a range of treatments and therapies.
Adventure enthusiasts: Kerala offers a range of adventure activities, including trekking, rafting, kayaking, and paragliding. Adventure enthusiasts are drawn to Kerala’s hilly terrain and scenic landscapes that provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
Family vacationers: Kerala is a popular destination for family vacations, with a range of activities and attractions that appeal to both children and adults. Family vacationers are drawn to Kerala’s beaches, backwaters, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Honeymooners : Kerala is a popular destination for honeymooners, with its romantic backwaters, secluded beaches, and hill stations. Honeymooners are drawn to Kerala’s serene and romantic environment that provides the perfect setting for a memorable honeymoon.

Tourism in Kerala is generally considered a safe, with a low crime rate compared to other parts of India. However, like any other destination, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here is some information on crime and safety in Kerala:

Petty crime: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Visitors should take care of their belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Road safety: Road accidents can occur in Kerala, particularly on narrow roads and in rural areas. Visitors should take care when traveling by road and avoid traveling at night.
Water safety: Visitors should take care when swimming in the sea or backwaters, as strong currents can occur in certain areas. It is important to follow local safety guidelines and swim only in designated areas.
Health and hygiene : Visitors should take precautions to avoid illnesses such as malaria and dengue fever, which are prevalent in some parts of Kerala. It is also important to practice good hygiene, including washing hands regularly and avoiding street food.
Women’s safety: Kerala is considered a relatively safe state for women travelers, but it is important to take precautions such as avoiding traveling alone at night and dressing conservatively in public areas.

Overall, Kerala is considered a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. It is important to be aware of your surroundings, take care of your belongings, and follow local safety guidelines.

The required budget for a trip to Kerala will depend on a variety of factors such as the length of your stay, your travel style, and the activities and attractions you plan to visit. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your trip:

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Kerala will vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget options such as hostels and guesthouses can cost around INR 500-1500 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around INR 2000-5000 per night. Luxury resorts and hotels can cost upwards of INR 10,000 per night.

Food and drink

Kerala offers a range of food options at varying prices. Local street food and small restaurants can cost around INR 100-300 per meal, while mid-range restaurants can cost around INR 500-1000 per meal. Fine dining options can cost upwards of INR 2000 per meal. The cost of alcohol will vary depending on the type and location, with prices ranging from INR 100-500 per drink.

Transportation

The cost of transportation in Kerala will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Local buses and trains are affordable, with fares starting at around INR 10-20. Taxis and private cars can be more expensive, with prices varying depending on the distance traveled.

Activities and attractions

The cost of activities and attractions in Kerala will vary depending on what you choose to do. Entry fees for museums and attractions can range from INR 50-500, while adventure activities such as trekking and rafting can cost upwards of INR 1000 per person.

Overall, a budget of INR 3000-5000 per day should be sufficient for a budget traveler to cover accommodation, food, and transportation costs in Kerala. Mid-range travelers should budget around INR 7000-10,000 per day, while luxury travelers should budget upwards of INR 15,000 per day. It is always a good idea to research and plan your trip in advance to ensure you have a realistic budget and are able to enjoy your trip without any financial stress.

Visiting India can be a daunting experience, so here are some general tips for visiting Kerala:

Plan your itinerary in advance : Kerala offers a wide range of experiences, from backwater cruises to hill station treks. It is a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your visit.
Pack appropriate clothing: Kerala is a tropical state with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Visitors should pack light and breathable clothing, including cotton and linen. It is also important to pack comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or trekking.
Carry a mosquito repellent: Kerala is known for its lush greenery, which means mosquitoes can be prevalent in some areas. It is a good idea to carry a mosquito repellent with you to avoid mosquito bites.
Try local cuisine : Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, including seafood, appam, and Kerala-style biryani. Visitors should try the local cuisine for an authentic experience.
Respect local customs and traditions : Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and seek permission before taking photographs of people.
Bargain when shopping: Bargaining is common in Kerala, especially when shopping at markets and street vendors. Visitors should not be afraid to negotiate the price and should be prepared to walk away if they are not satisfied with the price.
Stay hydrated: Kerala’s hot and humid climate can be draining, so visitors should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
Respect nature: Kerala is known for its natural beauty, including backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. Visitors should respect nature by not littering and avoiding activities that can harm the environment.

Kerala offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Visitors should be open to new experiences, respectful of local customs, and take precautions to ensure their safety and comfort.

Lets finish off this article about tourism in Kerala with some interesting facts:

Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country” due to its natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history.
Kerala is the first state in India to have a 100% literacy rate, achieved through a combination of government initiatives and public participation.
Kerala has a long tradition of Ayurvedic medicine, a system of holistic healing that dates back over 5000 years.
The backwaters of Kerala are a unique ecosystem consisting of interconnected waterways, canals, and lagoons that support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Kerala is one of the few places in the world where you can see the traditional Chinese fishing nets, which were introduced by traders from China over 500 years ago.
The traditional dance form of Kerala, called Kathakali, is known for its elaborate makeup, costumes, and facial expressions.
Kerala has a rich tradition of martial arts, including Kalaripayattu, which is believed to be one of the oldest martial arts in the world
The cuisine of Kerala is known for its use of coconut, spices, and seafood. Some popular dishes include appam, puttu, and fish curry.
The state animal of Kerala is the Indian elephant, and the state bird is the great Indian hornbill.
Kerala has the highest life expectancy in India, with an average life expectancy of 74 years. This is attributed to the state’s high literacy rate, access to healthcare, and focus on wellness and holistic living.

Here are 10 frequently asked questions about tourism in Kerala:

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala is from October to February when the weather is cool and dry.

What are the popular backwater destinations in Kerala?

The popular backwater destinations in Kerala are Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam.

What are the popular hill stations in Kerala?

The popular hill stations in Kerala are Munnar, Wayanad, and Vagamon.

What are the popular wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala?

The popular wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Kerala are Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

What is Ayurveda, and where can I experience it in Kerala?

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that uses natural herbs and remedies for healing. Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and several resorts and spas offer Ayurvedic massages and treatments.

What are the popular beach destinations in Kerala?

The popular beach destinations in Kerala are Kovalam, Varkala, and Cherai.

What are the popular cultural festivals in Kerala?

The popular cultural festivals in Kerala are Onam, Vishu, and Thrissur Pooram.

What are the popular adventure activities in Kerala?

The popular adventure activities in Kerala are trekking, camping, water sports, and wildlife safaris.

What is the cuisine of Kerala, and what are the popular dishes?

The cuisine of Kerala is known for its use of coconut, spices, and seafood. Some popular dishes are appam, Kerala-style biryani, and fish curry.

Is it safe for solo travelers to visit Kerala?

Kerala is generally considered a safe state for tourists, including solo travellers. However, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety and avoid traveling alone at night.

As you can see, tourism in Kerala is big business. Tourism in Kerala facilitate different types of tourism , encourages different types of tourists and offer the country a way to make money. If you are planning a trip to Kerala or you simply wanted to learn more about this destination, I hope that you have found this article about tourism in Kerala helpful. Here are some more articles that I am sure you will love too:

15 fascinating facts about the forests in Kerala
15 Must-know Facts about the Best India Waterfalls
The 10 longest rivers in India
25 Fascinating History Facts About India
49 Fascinating Facts About India

Liked this article? Click to share!

KERALA-Know Everything Real About A Land of Attractions

KERALA: The god’s own country is one of the major tourist attraction as well as the best honeymoon destination in India. The land of God, Kerala is believed to be a gift of the Arabian Sea. The pride of Kerala are Gorgeous and Exotic Beaches , Breathtaking hill Stations, Enchanting waterfalls , Beautiful lagoons, Meandering rivers and Amazing natural scenarios. These colors are made Kerala as a land of beauty and paradise on earth. Kerala is also famous for its Ayurvedic treatments, high mountains, gorges and deep-cut valley, lush and evergreen rain forest and coconuts water and oil and foods items. Kerala houseboats are first and best preference of the tourist to enjoy their moments in beautiful lakes of Kerala. The Idukki dam is the first Indian arch dam in Periyar river Kerala and the largest arch dam in Asia. Shopping, museums and markets are also best way to explore Kerala. Follow to visit some of the Best Place in Kerala .

Top 10 Reason and Place to Visit i n Kerala

Beaches: Sea, Sand and Sun are the gifts given by the god, which makes Kerala the land of most delightful beaches in the world. Kerala Backwaters offers a series of beaches that are perfect for a relaxing time with your love one. Some of the best beaches in Kerala are Kovalam, Cherai, Varkala, Kappad, Muzhappilangad and Bekal. Watch the sunset along with the blue water beaches of Kerala is the best way to end your day and start a romantic night.

Sports: The Exotic Beaches of Kerala are best for surfing, rafting and many more adventures ocean water sports . Kerala is the one of the best place for scuba diving and Snorkelling in India. Kerala is also known for its kind of Martial Arts called Kalarippayattu – A new insight into the traditional martial art of Kerala. Mountains climbing, Trekking , camping and Kayoing in rippling rivers of Kerala are some different types of sport that any one can enjoy. Ayurvedic treatments in Kerala are best way to relax and feel fresh after these sports.

Cuisines: After the enjoyments, foods are the next thing in mind. Kerala has a rich and unique flavor of foods like Sea foods , malayali cuisines and banana dishes. Kerala is famous for its spices and its spicy recipes of vegetarian and non vegetation food. Best cuisine of Kerala is Meen Curry – Kerala style fish curry made in fried coconut.

Wildlife: The Land of God, Kerala has a rich culture in Flora and Fauna. Kerala is the only state in India where highest number of Indian Elephants are found. The best place for wild animals are Silent Valley, Periyar national park and Tiger Reserve,which is situated high in the ranges of the Western Ghat . The land of elephants share their habitat with Panthera , King Cobra and other wild animals .

Natural beauty: Kerala the land of beauty is describes as the favourite child of nature, and famous for its breath-taking natural beauty. Major attraction are includes long coconuts tree, the blue mountain and rivers makes Kerala one of the greenest places ever seen. The beautiful milky falls of water splashing through the rocks should not be miss. Other attraction are Vembanad Lake India’s longest lake, Sasthamkotta lake and Cheruthoni Dam .

Festivals : Kerala has many colourful festivals and every festival has its own importance. Onam, the annual harvest festival and it is the largest festival celebrated in Kerala. Vallamkali or Snake Boat Races is the traditional boat race in Kerala. This famous water sport marks the end of Onam festival . Pooram Festival, the The main features of the pooram are the decorated elephants . Peoples of Kerala worship elephants and snakes on different festival occasions.

Villages: The villages in Kerala offer a feast to the eyes of the travellers by way of its panoramic view of the fields, farms, hillsides, rivers and lakes. The locals engage in fishing, farming, pottery, jute making and handicrafts. These villages with paddy fields all around and coconut trees are perfect to spend a relaxed holiday. Some of the popular villages are Vavannoor, Udayagiri, Aranmula, Cheppad, Teekoy,etc.

That what I was expecting ….

found your site on del.icio.us today and really liked it.. i bookmarked it and will be back to check it out some more later

you can not stop your self by saying WoW, I would definitely like to visit this heaven on earth some time

agreed Narendar. actually this is ” Heaven of Earth “.

GOD OWN COUNTRY……………………

this is actually a good treat but pls update this site.thank u for doin this.

Thanks Sarath, Sure will do.

a precise presentation….

Thank you Deepa

The One Liner

God’s own country: 6 beautiful- unique features that define kerala., kanjul verma may 30, 2023. 4 minute read.

In this article, you will witness the feel of the unique natural beauties of Kerala. You will also learn about rich traditions through various mythological and historical references. Know the cuisines and people’s lifestyle of God’s Own Country.

Let's dive right in..

Table of Content
Breathtaking Landscapes
Exotic Wildlife and Rich Diversity
Cultural Heritage and Traditions
Ayurvedic treatments and wellness practices
Kerala Cuisines
People’s lifestyle

Final Thoughts

Beautiful backwaters, stunning hill stations, pristine beaches, and lush green landscapes all in one place.

Can you guess the destination that offers such a diverse range of captivating features?

Well, let me take you on a journey where tranquil houseboat rides on the backwaters, breathtaking views from mist-covered mountains, sun-kissed shores, and lush plantations await you.

Known as “God’s Own Country,” It’s a place where traditions come alive through vibrant festivals, where the aroma of spices fills the air, and where the warm hospitality of the people makes you feel like you’re a part of their big, happy family so if you haven’t guessed it already,

Welcome to the enchanting land of Kerala, a true gem on the Southwestern coast of India!

Six things that make kerala beautiful, 1. breathtaking landscapes:, 1.1 tranquil backwaters.

Peaceful canals, surrounded by lush green fields and swaying palm trees. Well, that’s exactly the vibe of Kerala’s famous backwaters.

Kerala boasts a network of backwaters that covers around 900 kilometers. It’s an extensive maze of interconnected canals, lakes, and rivers that connect picturesque villages and lush green landscapes.

Places like Alleppey and Kumarakom offer the perfect opportunity to experience these serene and beautiful waterways.

You can board a traditional houseboat, known as a Kettuvallam , and let the gentle ripples transport you to a place of serenity and peace. You can also venture further to places like Kumarakom, Kollam, and Kasaragod to witness the diverse beauty of these interconnected water bodies.

1.2 Charming Hill Stations

When you venture into the Western Ghats, you’ll come across the enchanting hill stations of Kerala.

One of these gems is Munnar, and trust me, it’s a sight you don’t want to miss.

Imagine endless stretches of vibrant green tea plantations as far as the eye can see. The tea bushes are dotted with colorful flowers, creating a mesmerizing view that’s even more magical when surrounded by misty mountains.

Tucked away in the Western Ghats, Ponmudi is a lesser-known gem that offers breathtaking vistas and a serene atmosphere.

The winding roads leading up to this hill station are adorned with stunning viewpoints where you can catch panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and tea estates.

Now, let’s talk about Wayanad , another hill station that’s simply amazing.

It’s famous for its stunning valleys and breathtaking waterfalls. When you’re there, you can escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and soak in nature’s serenity.

Stroll through the valleys and let the sight of cascading waterfalls leave you in awe. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax and feel at peace, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

1.3 Pristine Beaches

And let’s not forget about the pristine beaches that Kerala offers.

They’re like straight out of a postcard! The sand is soft and golden, and the water is so clear you can see right through it.

Whether you want to take a dip, sunbathe, or simply walk barefoot along the shore, Kerala’s beaches have got you covered!

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, head to Kovalam Beach , known for its thrilling water sports like surfing and parasailing.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking tranquility, you can find secluded and less crowded beaches like Marari and Bekal, perfect for a peaceful getaway or a romantic evening stroll.

It doesn’t stop here!

These beaches also offer a unique natural phenomenon called the “Snehatheeram,” which translates to “Love Shore.”

During certain times of the year, the sea retreats and reveals a heart-shaped sand formation on the coast of Varkala Beach, leaving visitors enchanted by the whimsical display of nature’s love.

Kerala’s coastline stretches for about 590 kilometers, offering an array of pristine beaches, each one of which is unique in its own way, so explore and find just the right pick for you!

1.4 Enchanting Waterfalls

Alright, let’s turn our attention to the incredible world of waterfalls!

Kerala is blessed with an abundance of these jaw-dropping waterfalls that will leave you in awe.

The best thing about Kerala’s waterfalls is that they are easily accessible and, thanks to the abundant rainfall in the area, can be visited throughout the year. They are well-maintained, with clear paths and viewpoints to enjoy the stunning views of the waterfalls.

One of the most treasured waterfalls in Kerela is the Athirappilly Falls, located near Thrissur, often called the “Niagara Falls of India”?

It’s no surprise, given its majestic height of approximately 80 feet and the sheer volume of water thunders down its rocky cliffs.

This powerful spectacle has even attracted filmmakers, with scenes from popular movies like Dil Se, Raavan, Pukar, and Kuch na Kaho being shot against the backdrop of this magnificent waterfall.

In recent years the waterfall has become famous as Bahubali Falls because the most dramatic scenes of the movie Bahubali were shot here.

For adventure enthusiasts, Kerala’s waterfalls offer more than just scenic beauty.

With a height of around 200 feet, Soochipara Falls in Wayanad , known as the “Sentinel Rock Waterfalls” due to the large rock formations that guard the cascades, is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts who can indulge in activities like rock climbing and trekking in the surrounding area.

And let’s not forget about the pools formed at the base of the waterfalls.

These inviting natural pools are perfect for a refreshing dip, allowing visitors to cool off and rejuvenate amidst the captivating beauty of their surroundings.

One of the tallest waterfalls in Kerala, the 300 feet Meenmutty Falls is a true spectacle to witness, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a sense of tranquility that is simply magical.

Lastly, the Palaruvi Falls in Kollam, known as the “Milky Cascade, ” is a stunning waterfall with a height of around 300 feet, creating a mesmerizing white veil as the water elegantly descends the rocks.

Palaruvi Falls gets its name from the Malayalam words “Pala,” meaning “Milk,” and “Aravi,” meaning “Stream,” aptly describing its milky appearance.

It’s a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and find solace amidst the serene surroundings.

1.5 Vibrant Sunsets:

Did you know that Kerala’s atmospheric conditions and geographical location contribute to its spectacular sunsets?

The region’s proximity to the equator and its tropical climate creates the perfect setting for vibrant and colorful evening skies.

The warm and humid air enhances the intensity of the colors, making Kerala’s sunsets genuinely remarkable.

The sky turns into a stunning painting, with shades of orange, pink, and purple blending together.

It’s like nature’s own Instagram filter, giving you the perfect backdrop for those envy-inducing sunset photos.

But the vibrant sunsets of Kerala aren’t just about the colors in the sky.

It’s the whole experience that makes it truly special. The cool breeze, the sound of waves crashing gently on the shore, and the feeling of being in harmony with nature—all add to the moment’s magic.

So, whether you find yourself on the sandy shores of Kovalam Beach, atop the cliffs of Varkala Beach, or gliding through the backwaters of Alleppey, be sure to take a moment to witness the vibrant sunsets of Kerala!

2. Exotic Wildlife and Rich Diversity

Kerala is blessed with rich and diverse wildlife that adds to the state’s natural beauty.

From majestic elephants to elusive tigers and colorful bird species, Kerala’s wildlife offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s biodiversity.

One of the most iconic wildlife sightings in Kerala is the mighty Indian elephant.

These gentle giants roam freely in the forests and national parks of the state. Imagine coming face to face with these magnificent creatures as they gracefully move through the lush greenery!

But elephants aren’t the only stars of Kerala’s wildlife scene.

The Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is home to the elusive and majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. The reserve also boasts a wide variety of other wildlife, including leopards, sambar deer, and Indian bison.

Silent Valley National Park , a pristine rainforest, is a treasure trove of biodiversity, housing rare flora and fauna that will leave nature enthusiasts in awe.

Did you know Kerala is also known as the “Land of the Lion-tailed Macaque”?

This endangered primate species, with its distinctive silver mane and lion-like appearance, can be found in the Western Ghats of Kerala.

Spotting these fascinating macaques swinging through the treetops is a treat for any nature enthusiast!

Another intriguing resident of Kerala’s wildlife is the Nilgiri Tahr . With its curved horns and sturdy build, this mountain goat species is found in the high-altitude grasslands of the Western Ghats.

Eravikulam National Park in Munnar is a prime location to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Now, let’s head to the backwaters and coastal regions of Kerala, where you’ll encounter a wide variety of marine life.

The Arabian Sea is home to playful dolphins that love to show off their acrobatic skills.

Take a boat ride along the coast, and if you’re lucky, you might witness these intelligent creatures leaping and twirling in the waves!

Kerala is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary , nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake, attracts a wide array of avian species.

From elegant egrets and colorful kingfishers to the iconic Indian darter, this sanctuary offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Kerala’s birdlife.

Kerala’s rich biodiversity results from its diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests and evergreen forests to wetlands and coastal regions.

The state takes pride in its conservation efforts, with many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural habitats of these incredible creatures.

3. Cultural Heritage and Traditions

Kerala is renowned for its rich cultural tapestry, with a blend of influences from various communities that have shaped its identity. This is where ancient traditions and customs come to life, adding a touch of charm and uniqueness to the state.

One of the most iconic cultural practices is the art form of Kathakali.

Picture this: performers dressed in vibrant costumes, wearing elaborate makeup, and showcasing mesmerizing dance movements.

Kathakali is a visual extravaganza that tells stories from ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It’s like stepping into a different world of drama and artistic expression.

Another classical dance form called Mohiniyattam is also an essential token of the rich heritage of Kerela.

It’s a graceful dance performed by women, characterized by fluid movements, intricate hand gestures, and expressive storytelling.

Mohiniyattam is said to have originated from the divine dance of Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, and it continues to enchant audiences with its elegance and charm.

One of the iconic cultural symbols of Kerala is the Theyyam ritual.

It’s a unique form of worship where performers, adorned in vibrant costumes and intricate makeup, transform into deities and mythical characters.

Theyyam is believed to bring blessings and divine intervention to the community, and witnessing a Theyyam performance is like stepping into a world of ancient rituals and spiritual hunger.

Did you know that Kalaripayattu , a traditional martial art form, is believed to be one of the oldest fighting systems in existence?

It combines physical agility, self-defense techniques, and weaponry skills. Kalaripayattu has been practiced in Kerala for centuries and is considered a cultural treasure that showcases the state’s martial prowess and discipline.

When it comes to traditional attire, Kerala is famous for its Kasavu sarees. These sarees are characterized by their elegant off-white fabric with gold-bordered edges, and they hold great significance in Kerala’s cultural fabric.

The Kasavu sarees are often worn during special occasions, festivals, and weddings, adding a touch of grace and tradition to the attire.

3.1 Religious Importance

Ever wondered why kerela is called “god’s own country”, well, here’s why..

This fact is closely associated with the mythological story of the creation of Kerala, known as Parasurama’s legend.

According to the legend, the sage Parasurama threw his axe into the sea, which resulted in the formation of the land of Kerala.

It’s believed that Parasurama’s creation represents the struggle between land and sea, and Kerala is considered a land reclaimed from the mighty ocean.

The stories of temples, mosques, and churches here will leave you wondering how harmonious, secular, and divine this place can be, proving itself nothing less than “God’s own country”!

Let’s dig deeper!

Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is shrouded in mystery and holds a treasure trove of historical artifacts.

According to legends, the temple is believed to have been constructed by Lord Vishnu himself and has been a center of worship for centuries.

The temple’s architecture showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Kerala’s traditional artisans, with intricate carvings and beautiful murals adorning its walls.

The temple gained global attention for its hidden vaults, referred to as the “Vaults of the Anantha,” which contained immense wealth and valuable artifacts, making it one of the wealthiest temples in the world.

Sabarimala Temple, nestled in the dense forests of the Western Ghats, holds a significant place in Hindu mythology.

It is believed to be the place where Lord Ayyappa, the son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (an avatar of Lord Vishnu), meditated after defeating the demoness Mahishi.

The temple stands atop the Sabarimala hill, accessible through a rigorous pilgrimage marked by a 41-day fasting period and a challenging trek.

Sabarimala Temple is also famous for its “Pathinettam Padi,” the 18 sacred steps that devotees climb to seek Lord Ayyappa’s blessings.

The customs and rituals associated with Sabarimala Temple are deeply rooted in tradition and reflect the devotion and dedication of the devotees who undertake this spiritual journey.

Speaking of mythology, Kerala has a rich tradition of temple festivals, and one such iconic festival is the Thrissur Pooram.

It’s a grand celebration at the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur, where magnificent processions of decorated elephants, traditional music, and vibrant fireworks take center stage.

The festival brings together people from all walks of life to witness the spectacular display of devotion, cultural heritage, and a sense of community bonding.

Christianity, too, has a long and rich history in Kerala, dating back to the arrival of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, St. Thomas landed in Kerala in the 1st century AD and established Christian communities along the Malabar Coast.

The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, one of the oldest Christian communities in India, has its roots in Kerala.

The St. Francis Church in Kochi, believed to be one of the oldest European churches in India, holds special significance. The Portuguese built it in the 16th century and showcased a blend of European and Indian architectural styles.

Islam, too, has a profound presence in Kerala’s culture.

The state witnessed the arrival of Islam through Arab traders and merchants around the 7th century AD.

The Muslim community, known as Mappilas, played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange.

Mosques showcasing a unique blend of Islamic and local architectural styles can be found across the region.

One remarkable mosque is the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur , believed to be the first mosque in India, established in the 7th century AD.

Legend has it that the ruling king of Kodungallur received a dream message from Prophet Muhammad, leading to his conversion to Islam and the subsequent construction of the mosque.

The stories, traditions, and architectural marvels associated with these religions reflect the interplay of faith, history, and cultural exchange, making Kerala a truly fascinating destination.

“Kerala: A Journey Through the Ages” by K.R. Usha – is a book that provides a comprehensive overview of Kerala’s cultural heritage, tracing its history, art forms, festivals, and architectural wonders. It offers insights into the traditions that have shaped Kerala’s identity over the centuries.

4. Ayurvedic treatments and wellness practices

Kerala’s Ayurveda is rooted in a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Passed down through generations, this holistic system of medicine focuses on bringing harmony to the body, mind, and spirit.

It’s like a personalized prescription for wellness!

In Kerala, you’ll find many Ayurvedic treatments that cater to different needs.

Think of soothing massages, herbal therapies, and even personalized diet plans. These treatments are designed to not only relax your body but also revitalize your spirit.

Imagine the feeling of tension melting away as skilled therapists work their magic!

But it doesn’t stop there!

Kerala is home to world-class wellness resorts and centers like the award-winning

Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village, Palakkad,
the world’s first Ayurvedic resort,
Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort,
Kovalam, The Nattika Beach Ayurveda Resort, Thrissur

And many more where you can immerse yourself in the healing ambiance.

These tranquil havens offer a range of authentic Ayurvedic treatments administered by knowledgeable doctors and therapists who have mastered the art of wellness.

One of the highlights of Kerala’s Ayurveda is the famous Panchakarma therapy . This specialized detoxification process involves a series of cleansing treatments, like massages, herbal steam baths, and nasal irrigation.

It’s like hitting the reset button for your body, flushing out toxins, and restoring balance.

Herbal medicines are at the heart of Ayurveda, and Kerala’s biodiversity provides a treasure trove of natural ingredients.

From turmeric and ginger to neem and ashwagandha, these herbs are carefully selected and used in various Ayurvedic preparations.

Now, let’s talk about yoga and meditation.

You can complement your Ayurvedic journey with yoga and meditation practices that promote physical fitness, mental clarity, and a deep connection with your inner self.

Believe it or not!

People from all over the world flock to Kerala for wellness tourism.

In fact, in 2019 alone, more than 1.5 million wellness tourists visited the region.

You will be startled to know that famous personalities like Oprah Winfrey, Prince Charles, Angelina Jolie, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, and many more have also visited Kerala to explore traditional healing practices and wellness therapies.

That’s a testament to Kerala’s reputation as a wellness destination, offering authentic Ayurvedic experiences that leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

The Kerala government has been a champion of Ayurveda, supporting its growth and ensuring its authenticity. They’ve set up research institutes, wellness centers, and even a dedicated Ayurveda college.

So you can trust that you’re in good hands when it comes to your well-being.

If you’re curious about specific Ayurvedic treatments, there are plenty to choose from.

Whether it’s the indulgent Abhyanga massage, the blissful Shirodhara oil pour, the rejuvenating Pizhichil oil bath, or the soothing Nasya nasal therapy, each treatment offers a unique experience tailored to your needs.

Thus, whether you seek relaxation, rejuvenation, or specific health benefits, Kerala’s Ayurvedic offerings provide a unique opportunity to experience the healing power of this traditional system.

5. Kerala Cuisines

Kerala is known for its diverse and flavorful culinary traditions.

The cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, aromatic herbs, coconut, and an array of fresh ingredients. It truly reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage and the bountiful resources it offers.

One of the signature dishes of Kerala is the famous “Sadya,” a traditional feast served on a banana leaf.

It’s a grand affair that showcases a variety of vegetarian dishes, each bursting with unique flavors.

From the tangy Avial (mixed vegetable curry) to the creamy olan (ash gourd and coconut milk stew), every dish is a celebration of Kerala’s culinary prowess.

Seafood takes center stage in Kerala’s cuisine, thanks to its long coastline and abundant marine life.

The state is renowned for its lip-smacking seafood delicacies, such as the spicy and tangy fish curry known as “Meen Curry” or the aromatic and flavorful “Karimeen Pollichathu” (grilled pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf).

Coconut plays a vital role in Kerala’s cuisine, and you’ll find it in various forms, adding a unique touch to the dishes.

Whether it’s grated coconut used in curries, coconut milk in gravies, or coconut oil for cooking, it imparts a rich and distinct flavor to the food.

Rice is a staple in Kerala, and you’ll find a wide variety of rice-based dishes to savor. From the fluffy and fragrant “Ghee Rice” to the aromatic and spicy “ Biryani,” each rice dish is a culinary delight that will leave you wanting more.

Now, let's talk about Snacks and Sweets

Kerala offers a delectable array of snacks that are perfect for munching any time of the day.

Treat yourself to the crispy and savory “Kozhukatta” (rice dumplings), the deep-fried goodness of “Banana Chips, ” or the steamed rice cakes known as “ Puttu.” And for those with a sweet tooth, indulge in the irresistible “Payasam” (rice pudding) or the delicate and sweet “Unniyappam” (rice and jaggery fritters).

Kerala is also famous for its unique beverages. Sip on a refreshing glass of “ Sambharam ” (spiced buttermilk) to beat the heat or savor the rich flavors of “ Kaapi” (South Indian filter coffee) that will awaken your senses.

One interesting fact about Kerala’s cuisine is its emphasis on balance and harmony.

The traditional meal includes a combination of flavors such as sweet, salty, sour, and spicy, all in perfect harmony. It’s a culinary philosophy that aims to create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, a spice enthusiast, or someone who prefers milder flavors, Kerala’s cuisine has something for everyone.

The dishes are a reflection of the region’s cultural diversity and its love for gastronomic delights.

6. People’s lifestyle

The lifestyle of people in Kerala is influenced by its rich cultural heritage, natural surroundings, and deep-rooted traditions.

Known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere and extensive secularism, Kerala offers a unique way of life deeply connected to nature and community.

They value family bonds, community interactions, and a close-knit social structure. The concept of “extended family” is prevalent, where several generations live under one roof, fostering solid familial relationships.

Keralites have a deep appreciation for nature and sustainable living.

The state’s lush green landscapes, backwaters, and serene beaches have a significant impact on their lifestyle choices.

Many Keralites practice eco-friendly habits, such as organic farming, rainwater harvesting, and preservation of natural resources.

Education and literacy hold great importance in Kerala, making it one of the most literate states in India.

The emphasis on education has led to a highly educated workforce with a strong focus on intellectual pursuits, research, and innovation.

The cuisine, as we discussed earlier, is an integral part of the lifestyle in Kerala.

Food is central to social gatherings and celebrations, bringing families and communities together.

Keralites take pride in their culinary traditions and enjoy sharing their delicious meals with others.

Keralites also have a strong sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.

Kerala is one of the most secular states in India, where people of all religions live harmoniously.

They actively participate in community development programs, religious occasions of different religions, environmental initiatives, and social welfare activities.

The concept of “grama sabhas ” (village assemblies) is prevalent, where local communities come together to address issues, make decisions, and promote collective well-being.

Overall, the lifestyle of people in Kerala reflects a harmonious blend of tradition, nature, community, and a deep-rooted connection to their cultural heritage.

It is this unique way of life that adds to the charm and allure of “God’s Own Country.”

The Secret Sauce of Success: What Makes Karnataka the Ideal Destination for IT Companies (A Case Study)

In conclusion, Kerala stands out as a remarkable destination that truly lives up to its reputation as “God’s Own Country.”

Its breathtaking landscapes, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and enchanting waterfalls create a picturesque setting that is hard to match.

The state’s rich cultural heritage, with its diverse traditions, festivals, and architectural wonders, adds depth and vibrancy to the overall experience.

The warmth and hospitality of the people of Kerala make visitors feel right at home, embracing them with open arms.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deep connection with nature and culture, Kerala offers it all. It is a place where traditions are celebrated, nature thrives, and the soul finds solace.

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable journey that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm-hearted people, look no further than the enchanting land of Kerala.

Craving Comfort? Food Fixes Don't Last. Learn Healthy Coping Mechanisms And Everything About Emotional Eating.
Live with Honor: The Importance Role of Integrity in Modern Life

Subscribe to new post

Art & Culture
Offbeat Travel
Volunteering
Nostalgiphilia
Culture Directory
Collaborate

Exploring the Exhilarating Art Forms of Kerala

Folk Dances

1. kathakali, 2. kalaripayattu, 3. ottamthullal, 4. kutiyattam, 6. mohiniyattam, 7. chakyar koothu, 8. pulikali, 9. padayani, 10. kummattikali, 11. thiruvathira.

Kerala is a land of exhilarating and breathtaking beauty. Composed of paddy fields and lined by coconut trees, with a gentle touch of the forests, it is no wonder that Kerala is recognized as” God’s Own Country .” Set in the southernmost part of India, Kerala is a state where the laws of unity, tranquility, and harmony reign supreme. As a state which reserves high esteem for its rituals and traditions, Kerala has succeeded in preserving its Artforms through centuries. Thus today, Kerala hosts several unique Artforms, which have all passed the test of time and still find audiences among the young and the old alike. From the vibrant Kathakali, which speaks through subtle expressions to the Ottamthullal, which provides social commentary through its lyrical narration, Kerala is home to some of the exuberant artforms of the world.

Any discussion on the art forms of Kerala must undoubtedly begin with the great Kathakali, the symbol of Kerala’s rich heritage . Kathakali is the finest of all art forms prevalent in Kerala and is rightly counted as the icon of the state. Kathakali employs a vibrant mix of exquisite makeup, music, and costumes for its performance. It uses music, mudras, and the facial expressions of the performer. The movements of the eye and the coordination between the music and hand gestures are quite critical in deciphering the meaning of the action portrayed.

The artform narrates stories from Indian epics in a unique manner with the help of specific mudras. Hence to comprehend the meaning of the act performed, one must be well versed in the epics. In this art form, every minute detail is of utmost importance, from the colour of the costume to the subtle facial expressions; every element contributes to the interpretation of the act portrayed onstage. Kathakali is the most distinguishing factor of Kerala and attracts art lovers from every corner of the world.

Known popularly as the “Mother of all Martial Arts” in the world, Kalaripayattu is believed to be the oldest of all martial art forms. A method of warfare that is said to have originated in Kerala, about three centuries ago, Kalaripayattu is an art form that will keep the viewer thrilled and engrossed throughout the performance. A defensive art form, Kalaripayattu, is said to be an antecedent of popular martial arts such as kungfu. From yoga to healing , it encompasses several disciplines.

Kalaripayattu uses a wide range of weaponry, including sharpened knives, urumi (flexible sword), long staff, sword, and shield, among others, based on the experience and ability of the trainee. Besides being a Martial art, Kalaripayattu also focuses on unifying the mind and the body of the performers. It lays stress on the flexibility of the body and the concentration power of the participants. It is a stunning visual treat and should be experienced by everyone. The quick-paced movements, extreme focus, and the stunts are sure to keep the viewers at the edge of their seats.

Often characterized as “the poor man’s Kathakali,” Thullal has an interesting tale about its origin. Kunjan Nambiar, who had unintentionally dozed off during a performance of Chakyar Koottu, was ridiculed by the Chakyar. In reply to the ridicule, Nambiar created the art form of Ottamthullal, which discusses social and politically relevant issues. Unlike all the art forms discussed till now, Ottamthullal involves only one performer, who gives out a solo performance.

Ottamthullal is a mix of humorous and witty dialogues sung lyrically. This art is a delicate composition of dance, music, vibrant expressions, colourful costume, and light-hearted humour. Unlike the other forms of art such as Kathakali or Kutiyattam, Ottamthullal can be viewed and understood by anyone. Also, unlike the other artforms that take months of practice, Ottamthullal gives the performer freedom to improvise. The lyrical narration that accompanies the dance is greatly coordinated with the latter; the recitation is mostly lyrical and poetical giving the viewer a unique and brilliant experience.

Kutiyattan is an ancient performing theatre art believed to be at least a thousand years old. It is perhaps the only surviving theatrical art form that is based on the ancient Sanskrit theatre. The word Kutiyattan, which means “performing together,” itself gives us a glimpse of its content. The actors of the stage use tenuous makeup, which itself takes quite long to complete and wear elaborate costumes. Like in Kathakali, every single shift in the facial expression or a slight movement can depict the inner thoughts and conflicts of the character on stage.

Due to its universality and rich heritage, Kutiyattan has been recognized by UNESCO as “a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity.” The actors are required to undergo rigorous training of about ten to fifteen years to be deemed a professional. The actors elaborately portray every single situation that the character encounters. Apart from the serious characters like the Chakyar and the Nangiar, Kutiyattam also hosts a comic character named Vishakha, who gives out humorous lines and speaks in Malayalam, while the other characters use Sanskrit. Kutiyattam is one of a kind of drama that should not be missed if one visits Kerala.

“The Dance of the Gods,” Theyyam is an art form that is said to have been originated from northern Kerala, most specifically from Malabar. It is performed to offer worship and devotion to gods, and hence, it is a kind of a divine art form. The performer usually wears an elaborate costume, mostly coloured red. It is believed that the spirit of the deity is transferred to the performer during the performance. Theyyam is primarily performed in the months between November and December in the north Malabar region mainly, Kannur, Kasargod, etc. The art form is said to be at least 1500 years old and is performed with much reverence and held in high esteem all over Kerala’s state.

Mohiniyattam is a dance form usually performed as a solo performance; it is also based on the subtle facial expression, hand gestures, and body movements, all of which coordinate to narrate deep meanings to the audience. The dancer is usually clad in a simple white sari with golden borders and seeks to represent the usual dressing style of a Keralite woman. Mohiniyattam is an amalgamation of some of the essential elements of Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Kutiyattam, and Koothu. The musical component of the art form is sung in Manipravalam, a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam.

Regarding the other art forms of Kerala, Mohiniattam employs simple and elegant costume and makeup but is not a bit less mesmerizing. The mudras and gestures used in Mohiniattam can signify particular objects and things and are employed to tell a story. Hence, more than just being a dancer, the performer engrosses the audience by narrating the story through her elegant and subtle movements. Mohiniyattam is the soul of all the artforms of Kerala and is one that should never be missed.

The art form is quite ancient but has been successfully transferred from one generation to another. In the olden times, Chakyar Koothu was only performed by the people of the Chakyar community. The Chakyar was the court jester and hence was free to criticize the actions of the king. In modern times, Chakyar Kooth has taken on a new colouring as it represents the mythological and epics in a rather interesting way. Chakyar Koothu embodies humour and uses it to engross the audience to the act. Apart from the solo performer, Chakyar Koothu involves two other instruments, the Mizhav, and the Edathalam. Like Ottamthullal, Chakyar Koothu is also a kind of social criticism and satire of the social situation.

Pulikali is a street art form that is enjoyed far and wide in Kerala at the time of Onam. To perform this art, performers and artists apply black and orange paint on their bodies to resemble a tiger. The other performers will be dressed as hunters. The whole idea behind Pulikai is tiger hunting, and the performers enact the role of the tiger and the hunter in accordance with the music provided. The performance is quite exhilarating and exotic; the viewers are in for a visual threat. Mostly Pulikali takes place on streets and is considered to be a folk art of Kerala. The quick-paced movements and the fast-paced music accompanying the performance add a sense of thrill to the performance. Pulikali is also an art form that is admired by people all over the world.

Padayani is a ritual art form performed in the temples of Goddess Badrakali in Kerala. The Artform narrates the story of Goddess Kali’s victory over the Demon, Darika. The performer wears colorful and vibrant masks and Kolams which represent various Gods and Goddesses. Padayani is also performed to thank the Goddess for the harvest. The performance is spectacular and embodies in it, elements from different art forms across Kerala. It bears a considerable resemblance to the Artform of Theyyam.

The Artform of Kumattikali is mostly performed during the festival of Onam, the state festival of Kerala. The performers wear an outfit that is specially made from a type of grass called Kummattipullu. The colorful and painted masks depict characters from Indian Mythology. The dancers move from house to house, collecting presents from each. Kummattikali is most prevalent in the Thrissur district of Kerala. The performance is accompanied by music from a unique musical instrument named “Onavillu.” .Kummattikali is an art form that is inherent to Kerala and is sure to provide a memorable experience to the viewer.

Thiruvathira is also an art form that is based in Kerala and performed during Onam. On this particular occasion, women dress in traditional Kasavu saree and dance in a circle around the Nilavilak. The dance is quite graceful and has tender and elegant movements, with the rhythmic clapping of hands. Unlike the artforms discussed above, which require strenuous training and years of experience, Thiruvathira is played by every woman. During the Onam season, each house would host a Thiruvathira in their compound and be considered a quintessential part of Onam celebrations.

Image credits: The copyright for the images used in this article belong to their respective owners. Best known credits are given under the image. For changing the image credit or to get the image removed from Caleidoscope, please contact us.

Nice article. We should start adopting eco-friendly products like bamboo toothbrush, cotton grocery shopping bags, natural scrubbers etc., to reduce the waste and save our earth. Revive is offering Eco Friendly Products in India. Revive’s eco friendly products are natural, sustainable, ethical sourced and come with plastic-free packaging. Choose natural, be sustainable, and be a part of the revival

Thanks Jagadeesh, we suggest you to list your business in our cultural directory. http://www.caleidoscope.in/indian-art-and-cultural-directory

INSPIRING READS

Thriving thrift culture in india – sustainable and pocket friendly fashion, the magaji laddu – the gi tagged delicacy of odisha, shades of kalyan – a musical evening by nalandaway foundation’s delhi children’s choir, delhi govt. school children shine at kalakriti arts festival, saraswati – ode to the goddess of learning and music in artworks, passionate about patang here are few interesting facts about kites, trending topics.

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon. Learn more

WEB STORIES New
ENTERTAINMENT
CAREER & CAMPUS
INFOGRAPHICS
ISL 2023-24

Manorama Online
Manorama News TV
ManoramaMAX
Radio Mango
Subscription

Palakkad: where nature unleashes its beauty

Palakkad is often referred to as the granary of Kerala. Some would even call it the city of majestic forts. In fact this northwestern district is a store house of incredible sights and holds a significant position in the historical map of Kerala. Malampuzha dam, Tipu Sultan Fort, Kalpathy heritage village, Kanjirapuzha dam-garden and Nelliampathy are some of the amazing tourist destinations in Palakkad.

The mesmerizing sight of the exotic Palmyra trees, serene lake and its beautiful banks, makes Kava, the place where the Malapuzha River originates, a favorite destination of the nature lovers. One can reach Kava by travelling five kilometers towards Anakkal on the Malampuzha road. Clusters of lean Palmyra trees, which gained an iconic status through OV Vijayan’s Khasakhinte Ithihasam, and the serene banks of the Malampuzha dam offers a breath taking view for the visitors.

Palakkad fort – A reminder of Mysore's campaigns in Malabar

Enjoy your perfect Palakkad picnic in Malampuzha

Though waterfalls like Mayiladumpara and Karuvanpeta attract huge number of tourists, it would be dried up during summer. Absence of regular bus service through this route is a disadvantage. It is advisable to reach this place in own or hired vehicles. District tourism promotion council: 0491 2538996.

The ‘yakshi’ and the rock garden

Malampuzha has always enticed the imagination of the travelers with its hanging bridge, beautifully landscaped garden and the legendary granite sculpture of the Malampuzha Yakshi. The rock garden in Malampuzha, initiated by the district tourism council, is the first of its kind in South India. Renowned sculptor Nek Chand Saini, whom the country honored with a Padma Shri, has created the fascinating rock statues at the garden.

Rock figurines of fish, humans, deer and swans enthrall the visitors with its perfection and charm. Glass, mud tiles and granite pieces too are used to create these beautiful statutes that adorn the rock garden. Tourists can enter the rock garden from 10 am to 6 pm. Besides the entrance fee, extra amount will be charged for taking camera inside the garden. Malampuzha: 0491 2815295.

The agraharam (Brahmin village) at Kalpathy, which earned the status of the first heritage village in the state, exudes an old world charm with its rows of houses and courtyards adorned with ‘kolam’(intricate designs drawn with rice flour). The rich and unique Brahmanic traditions and the Vishalakshi Sametha Vishwanatha temple give a spiritual significance for the place. The beautiful Kalpathy River which flows serenely through the village is truly an amazing sight to behold. One can reach Kalpathy by taking a left at the Palakkad – Olavakkad road after Chathapuram.

Hangouts Palakkad
Kerala Destinations

Stay in Munnar for just Rs 1 on March 27; promises night guides’ association

Jacaranda trees in full bloom attract visitors to Munnar

IHCL’s ‘Scenic Hotel’ open in Munnar

She lodge opened in Kozhikode

Floating restaurant, house boat terminal and more to be launched in Kumarakom

International paragliding festival at Vagamon: India's largest aero sports adventure fest from March 14

Tourism sector in Wayanad feels the heat as temperature rises and wild animal attacks increase

Women's Day weekend plan: Here's what KTDC has in store for you

Loved Manjummel Boys? Visit Kerala's own Guna Caves at Kochareekkal in Ernakulam

Announcements
SUBSCRIPTION

Visual Ethnography

For Readers

Creating Pantheon -Nature, Colours and Beliefs: A Visual Narrative of Kaliyattam in Kerala

ASHLEY, Wayne - HOLLOMAN, Regina.

From Ritual to Theatre in Kerala. The Drama Review: TDR, 26 (2): 59-72.

ASHLEY, Wayne.

The Teyyam Kettu of Northern Kerala. The Drama Review: TDR, 23 (2): 99-112.

BLACKBURN, Stuart H.

Death and Deification: Folk Cults in Hinduism. History of Religions, 24 (3): 255-74.

CHANDRAN, T V.

Ritual as ideology: text and context in teyyam. Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi: D.K. Print

DAMODARAN, M P.

Teyyam is the best tool for reconstructing the history of North Malabar. Anthropologist. 10 (4): 283-87.

FREEMAN, John Richardson

Gods, Groves and the Culture of Nature in Kerala. Modern Asian Studies, 33 (2): 257-302.

Purity and violence: sacred power in the teyyam worship of Malabar. University of Pennsylvania. Dissertations

available from ProQuest. AAI9125644. https://repository.upenn.edu/dissertations/AAI9125644.

GADGIL, Madhav – CHANDRAN,M. D. Subash

Sacred Groves. India International Centre Quarterly, 19 (1/2): 183-187.

GADGIL, Madhav – VARTAK,V. D.

The Sacred Groves of Western Ghats in India. Economic Botany, 30 (2): 152-160.

GOUGH, E. Kathleen

Cults of the Dead among the Nāyars. The Journal of American Folklore, 71 (281): 446-78.

GROESBECK, Rolf

"Classical Music," "Folk Music," and the Brahmanical Temple in Kerala, India. Asian Music, 30 (2): 87-112.

Dhim, Kam, Cappu, Pottu: Timbral Discourses and Performances among Temple Drummers in Kerala, India. Yearbook for Traditional Music, 35: 39-68.

GOUGH, Kathleen

Peasant Resistance and Revolt in South India. Pacific Affairs, 41 (4): 526-44.

KOGA, Mayuri

The politics of ritual and art in Kerala: controversies concerning the staging of teyyam. Journal of the Japanese Association for South Asian Studies. 15. 54-79.

KURUP, K. K. N.

Teyyam. Trivandrum: Government of Kerala, Department of Public Relations.

Peasantry and the Anti-Imperialist Struggles in Kerala. Social Scientist, 16 (9): 35-45.

KURUP, K.K.N.

The Socio-Economic Transformation of a Traditional Village in Kerala. Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 64: 850-859.

MENON, Dilip M.

Peasants and Politics in Malabar. Economic and Political Weekly, 32 (41): 2618-2620.

MILLER, Eric J.

Caste and Territory in Malabar. American Anthropologist, New Series,56 (3): 410- 420.

NAMBIAR, Balan

Teyyam. India International Centre Quarterly, 22 (2/3): 135-142.

RADHAKRISHNAN, P.

Land Reforms and Social Change: Study of a Kerala Village. Economic and Political Weekly, 18 (52/53): A143-150.

TARABOUT, Gilles

Malabar Gods, Nation-Building and World Culture: On Perceptions of the Local and the Global. In Globalizing India: Perspectives from Below. Jackie Assayag & Christopher John Fuller (eds). London: Anthem

Press. Pp. 186-209.

"Passions" in the Discourses on Witchcraft in Kerala. Journal of Indian Philosophy, 28 (5/6): 651-664.

VADAKKINIYIL, Dinesan

Images of Transgression: Teyyam in Malabar. Social Analysis: The International Journal of Social and Cultural Practice, 54 (2): 130-150.

ZARRILLI, Phillip B.

Kalarippayatt, Martial Art of Kerala. The Drama Review: TDR, 23 (2): 113-24.

There are currently no refbacks.

ISSN Print 2499-9288 ISSN Online 2281-1605 Publisher Edizioni Museo Pasqualino Patronage University of Basilicata, Italy Web Salvo Leo

International Handbook of Disaster Research pp 1–6 Cite as

How Local Governments in Kerala Play Crucial Roles During Natural Calamities

George Mathew 2
Living reference work entry
First Online: 02 June 2023

Natural disasters were there from the very existence of the human kind and nature in the universe. No place in the world is a disaster-free zone. But, how the challenge is faced by mankind is a matter of great concern. This article analyzes how Kerala, geographically situated in a natural disaster-prone area, fought three calamities in 2018, viz., (1) the floods, (2) the Nipah virus, and (3) Covid-19 epidemic, bravely. It focusses on how Kerala society has resilience against calamities and the role of local governments (panchayats) in saving people’s lives. The People’s Plan Campaign, initiated by the Kerala State Planning Board in August 1996, aimed at strengthening the decentralization process through the local bodies, and it has become an integral part of people’s lives in the state. The article highlights the success, the state achieved, during calamities in saving people’s lives and property, emphasizing the need that the other parts of the country could follow the Kerala model of development, particularly in dealing with disasters of any nature.

Development
Local government

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution .

Institute of Social Sciences. (1991). Social background of district council members in Kerala 1991. ISS Occasional Paper Series – 8, 1991.

Google Scholar

The Hindu , April 18, 2020.

Shaju Philip. Indian Express , May 19, 2021.

Web Article: Sabrang, Kerala: How are local bodies helping control Covid? 19 May 2021.

Institute of Social Sciences, Outstanding Women Panchayat Leaders Award, 2019 (Women’s Political Empowerment Day Celebrations, 24–25 April 2019). This award is given to Ms. Sajimol Francis in recognition of her pioneering work, particularly during the 2004 Tsunami and the flood calamity in 2018 in Kerala.

Web Article: Sabrang, ibid.

Covid Fight: RBI Praises Kerala’s Health Sector: Local Self-governments. The New Indian Express , 31 October 2020.

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi, India

George Mathew

You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Editor information

Editors and affiliations.

Centre for the Study of Law and Governance, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Delhi, India

Amita Singh

Section Editor information

Centre for the Study of Law and Governance, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

About this entry

Cite this entry.

Mathew, G. (2023). How Local Governments in Kerala Play Crucial Roles During Natural Calamities. In: Singh, A. (eds) International Handbook of Disaster Research. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-8800-3_206-1

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-8800-3_206-1

Received : 05 January 2023

Accepted : 10 January 2023

Published : 02 June 2023

Publisher Name : Springer, Singapore

Print ISBN : 978-981-16-8800-3

Online ISBN : 978-981-16-8800-3

eBook Packages : Springer Reference Business and Management Reference Module Humanities and Social Sciences Reference Module Business, Economics and Social Sciences

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Find a journal
Track your research

Growth and Success in Kerala

Introduction to Kerala

Kerala stands out among the states of India, not only for its relative poverty, but for the truly remarkable array of basic health benefits which it manages to provide to its citizens. Despite having a per-capita GNP of only $298 in 1991, Kerala boasted a nearly one hundred percent literacy rate, and had one of the lowest incidences of child malnutrition in all of India. By contrast, the GNP in the rest of the country was $330, and the adult literacy rate only 52% (Franke and Chasin 1994). The robustness of health of Kerala’s citizens also shows through in a variety of other metrics, and the extraordinary success of Kerala’s ambitious program to settle entrenched historical inequities and promote truly exceptional widespread health demands an explanation. In fact, the phenomenon of the state’s development has been so well studied that the “Kerala Model” is frequently referred to by economists, anthropologists, and policy-makers alike.

However, looking simply at the health metrics in Kerala is not sufficient. To fully understand its current situation, one must take a biosocial approach. This means recognizing that “measurable biological and clinical processes are inflected by society, political economy, belief, desire, to a similar extent as other aspects of social life” (Farmer, et al). For Kerala, this entails looking not just at the failures or successes of currently implemented policy, but also at the historical circumstances which informed it and the social structures which surround and shape it. Only by looking at the Kerala model more deeply, analyzing it through a variety of disciplines, can we hope to find meaningful answers about the causes of its successes and failures, and its applicability and meaning in a broader world context.

One aspect that contributes to the uniqueness of Kerala is the strong civil activity and organization of its citizens. This history of mobilization started centuries ago under the oppressive and demeaning caste system, pressing vital reforms through entrenched local and national interests to result in the current notable health statistics. Though the benefits of these reforms are experienced both biologically and socially, they come as the result of deliberate moves of policy and advocacy which organized the disadvantaged to fight for their own rights. With that opportunity, the people of Kerala have managed to structure and enforce specific reforms which have direct, beneficial effects on the way they live.

Kerala is often dismissed as a special case, a perfect storm of ecological, historical, and individual circumstances. However, the characteristics of Kerala which enabled its success are not strictly limited by setting, and the approach it took toward advocacy, policy, and reform can apply in broader contexts, and has. The idea of education as mobilization addresses one of the main problems in development today – the fact that that it often enhances inequality even as it promotes GNP-level growth – by working to combat “structural violence” at its roots (Farmer). Kerala challenges the assumption that countries have to experience economic growth on the national level to be lifted out of poverty by showing that meaningful education reform and the nurturing of an engaged active citizenry can create a better standard of life without succeeding on any traditional monetary growth metrics. The state’s uniqueness is not then a testament to the Kerala Model’s ineffectiveness or irreplicability, as some allege, but to the deep entrenchment of the economic growth model and the interests which support it.

History of Kerala

Kerala’s successes are the result of a long history of division and struggle. Up through the 1900s, people in that area were bound by a rigidly inflexible caste system. Subtleties of dress and speech “ensured that a person’s place in society could be recognized at a glance” (Jeffrey 1992). These highly visible classifications in turn determined how wealth was distributed and how different social groups interacted. Higher-caste groups were considered pure; they owned the land or were priests, while lower castes were relegated to the most menial labor and considered contaminated or polluted. Though this system was in place throughout India, it was both particularly elaborate and exceedingly strict in Kerala. In the nineteenth century, Indian reformer Swami Vivekananda called the region “a madhouse of caste” (Franke and Chasin 1994). Chief among the restrictions imposed on the lowest castes were their inability to own land, interact with higher-caste individuals, or enter Hindu temples, but other instances of structural violence against lower-caste Keralites were innumerable and utterly pervasive. These inequalities were doubly entrenched in tradition and religion in India, making them especially intractable. However, as described later, education for critical consciousness works to counteract the systemized violence of the caste hierarchy by teaching people to question the system rather than just adapt to it.

The caste system epitomizes traditional authority, which social theorist Max Weber described as “resting on an established belief in the sanctity of immemorial traditions and the legitimacy of the status of those exercising authority under them” (1964). Traditional authority differs from bureaucratic, or rational-legal authority in that it is historically derived. Because of this, policies are determined by custom, or the whims of whoever custom selects to rule. The utter lack of meritocracy in such a static caste society meant that edicts from the ruling class could only be enforced as long as the tradition on which they were grounded continued to prevail. As challenges to the traditional system came in the form of the caste liberation movement, they also inspired challenges against the idea of top-down authority at all. When the caste system finally fell, those who had been most disadvantaged by it had also learned that social and governmental structures were not infallible – that they could be agitated against.

Education played an important part in Kerala’s tremendous transition from a rigidly caste-divided society into one of India’s most egalitarian states. Though the region historically had strong literacy rates, it was the early-1900s expansion of the education system into the countryside which paved the way for the mass mobilization and active citizenry which today define Kerala. However, this early emphasis on vernacular schools (schools which taught in the native language, Malayalam) was actually implemented with much the opposite intention. A Maharaja of Travancore explained the pro-education policies by saying, “a government which has to deal with an educated population is by far stronger than one which has to control ignorant and disorderly masses. Hence education is a twice-blessed thing – it benefits those who give it and those who receive it” (Jeffrey 1992). Though advocating for education, he and other elites believed it would lead to a less barbarous, easier to control populace. In this case, limited knowledge about the effects of literacy and education, led decision-makers to implement policies with results almost diametrically opposite of what they intended, a phenomenon Robert Merton called “the unanticipated consequences of purposive social action” (1936). Ironically, the very education reforms structured to make the populace easier to govern would help inform the radical movements which later swept Kerala. This gap between expectations and results shows most clearly in the selection of Booker T. Washington’s Up from Slavery as a required text. While educational authorities applauded “Washington’s emphasis on deference and slow, peaceful change,” low-caste Hindus read it as a manual for how to go about challenging their oppressive situation. In this case, the maharajas were simply unable to fully understand the impact that the texts they selected would make, and because of this they never anticipated the revolutionary seeds their own purportedly placating school system would sow.

The school system in Kerala directly challenged the traditions of the past. It mixed the castes, even as it heightened awareness of ethnic identities by using them for scholarship distribution and other such organizational purposes. These hardened social identities challenged traditional modes of hierarchy and deference in Kerala, giving rise to a much larger movement. Schools became a testing ground for little acts of rebellion, and as Gandhi’s nationalist non-cooperation movement swept the country, it found many student followers. Rebellion was literally taught in class – teachers were paid little and irregularly, and they objected, noisily. “From the mid-1930s, vigorous teachers’ unions spread new ideas and forms of protest into distant corners” (Jeffrey 1992). This idea of dissent, of critically examining one’s situation and working to change it, strikes at the heart of structural violence, which perpetuates its injustice by being unnoticed. For this reason, the very first movements of the educationally engaged Kerala citizens were to combat these systemic injustices, mostly through land reforms.

The various modes of dissent against structural violence became part of the social landscape of Kerala, incorporated through years of organized activism like temple entry marches, which sought to gain access to segregated temples, and “interdining,” which publically broke taboos by showing high- and low-caste Indians eating together (Franke and Chasin 1994). As the former students became teachers, this method of mass organization as communication became an integral part of Kerala’s culture, a process which Berger and Luckman refer to as “the social construction of reality” (1967). However, while Berger and Luckman tend to use the term to describe the institutionalization of authoritative social realities as seemingly objective and binding laws, it means something rather different here. It still refers to the process by which a socially-constructed understanding becomes an opaque, concrete reality of life, but in Kerala that fact of life is not a monolithic structure, but a movement of people. The reality which has been socially constructed through years of protest is that of an organized populace, effective at representing their viewpoints. Literacy is widespread in Kerala, information-seeking and active citizenry encouraged, protest expected. Though these are all social facts, constructed by the activism of Kerala’s people, they also became objectified over time as a concrete reality, influencing policy and lives by the ever-present threat of mass mobilization.

In fact, it was this reality of this active peasantry that allowed for the passage of many of the most revolutionary reforms in Kerala. Education itself, though originally instituted by benevolently misguided maharajas, relied on the activism of the lower castes as well. They instituted reading and writing circles, which had a strong Marxist component and ensured that “the right to literacy in Kerala was transformed from a purely government-sponsored policy to a popular mass movement” (Franke and Chasin 1994). These sorts of grassroots movements, such as the 1990 Total Literacy Programme, helped Kerala to achieve 100% literacy by 1991, while the overall literacy of India was just 52% (Franke and Chasin 1994). However, key to understanding the literacy movement is an emphasis on what was being taught, that people were learning to think critically about themselves and their situations. This in turn led to a more active and engaged citizenry which was better able to protect its own interests throughout various forms of government. Paulo Freire described the prerequisite for participating in meaningful social change as “a form of education enabling the people to reflect on themselves, their responsibilities, and their role in the new cultural climate,” and though he wrote about Brazil, his words are equally resonant when trying to describe what distinguishes the political consciousness of Kerala (2008). Though education began the reform movements in Kerala, those movements soon became the basis for education through the efforts of a class that prioritized and fought for empowering Keralites through meaningful, thought-provoking literacy campaigns.

However, education was not the people of Kerala’s only priority, nor even their first. Access to land had also been historically highly restricted, and as the class consciousness of the peasants grew, they found the traditional system of tenancy increasingly exploitative and insufferable. Radical associations began as early as 1915, when activists formed the Malabar Tenancy Association, and they continued to gain steam all the way through 1957, when Kerala elected a Communist Party of India majority to the state legislature (Franke and Chasin 1994). The first priority of this administration was to implement significant land reform, which they did on November 9, 1957, through the announcement of the Kerala Agrarian Relations Bill (KARB). Immediately, the bill faced strong opposition from the landed interests, including a member of the Praja Socialist Party, a misleadingly-named organization which had in fact often been called “the party of the past” in India (Fickett 1973). In the debate, a prominent PSP member named Joseph Chazhikkadan “compared the KARB to Pandora’s Box, the revenue minister in charge of the Bill to Pandora, and the provisions of the Bill to leprosy, tuberculosis, rabies, a scorpion, snake, wolf, and so on” (Radhakrishnan 1989). In the face of this virulent opposition, however, there was widespread peasant mobilization to support the bill. Throughout the debate, radical groups mustered support for the KARB, including rallies, conferences, meetings, and other demonstrations. When the central government of India launched a joint steering committee to remove the elected radicals with “the declared aim of saving the state from communist attacks and establishing peace, democracy, and democratic government,” supporters of the communist ministry took to the streets for 50 days, picketing government institutions and schools (Radhakrishnan 1989). Though Kerala’s communist government was indeed dismissed by the ruling Congress party in India at the end of that period, the replacement ministry still had to deal with these activists. Despite a variety of adjustments made which eliminated many of the protections for tenants, the revised legislation passed in 1960 as the Kerala Agrarian Relations Act retained most of the provisions of the KARB, and still “provided major economic relief to tenants” (Franke and Chasin 1994). However, subsequent protests by wealthy landowners and appeals to the central government succeeded in substantially watering down the already diluted KARA.

Legislative disappointments aside, radicals in Kerala certainly gained more from the brief communist ministry than they lost. In addition to the precedent set by the passage of a substantial land reform act, there were also benefits which, though less immediately tangible would have even greater ramifications for the future. By the time the seven party United Front, led by the Communist Party of India – Marxist, was elected to power in 1967, many of the most substantial impediments to land reform had been removed. This revival of the leftists’ prior agenda was enabled by a variety of factors, such as the breakup of the anti-communist alliance which previously thwarted the KARB, the splintering and dissolution of the Congress party, and the increased mobilization of the peasantry which had resulted from the alliance of formerly anti-communist groups with the left to work for mass interests. Though the passage of the Kerala Land Reforms (Amendment) Act in 1969 was itself relatively uneventful, – by this point, popular pressure had driven most political leaders to support the bill – the KLRAA still had a massive impact on the division of resources in society, turning 1.5 million tenants in small land owners. However, it is important to emphasize that this reform was not just the result of a quiet vote or secluded legislative debate. “Quite the contrary, it was the outcome of decades of organizing, petition signing, marching, meetings, strikes, battles with police and landlord goon squads, election campaigns, and parliamentary debates” (Franke and Chasin 1994). Importantly, all this mobilization was initiated by a critically educated citizenry which was prepared to fight for its convictions.

Kerala’s transition in the early twentieth century from a rigid, caste-defined society to the implementer, in large part by a mobilized peasantry, of one of the most thorough land reforms in South Asia depended ultimately on early efforts to educate the entirety of its citizenry. Though that educational movement was started with much the opposite intention, the skills and material taught enabled everyone in Kerala to look critically at their situation and to fight for improvements, in both education system itself and in the exploitative distribution of property and the outmoded laws which protected established interests. Key to understanding the increased mobilization of popular resources was the institutionalization of radicalism as a mode of learning and of protest in Kerala. Through successes like the land reform acts, the great mass of the previously disadvantaged came to understand themselves as having a role in crafting of the policies which affect them, and over time this understanding solidified itself as a society in which even the most wealthy and elite were forced to reconcile their aims with those of the least privileged.

Health Outcomes in Kerala

Tracing the history of Kerala shows how the disenfranchised took back crucial elements of their own governance through education and mobilization. However, the effects of that newfound government remain to be demonstrated. Though Kerala did not experience the economic boom that is often conceived as marking development in poor countries, the various metrics of quality of life have improved significantly, a phenomenon Srikumar Chattopadhyay and Richard Franke referred to as “accomplishing more with less” (Freund 2009). On its most basic level, this can be shown as a comparison between Gross National Product and life expectancy. Under traditional understandings of development, an increased GNP corresponds with more wealth and a higher individual standard of living. However, Kerala is an exception to this rule. Despite having a per capita GNP of only $298 in 1991, as compared to India’s overall GNP of $330, Kerala had an average life expectancy of between 69 and 72 years. India’s average life expectancy was 60 years, and the life expectancy of other countries as economically destitute as Kerala was only 55 years. In fact, Kerala’s life expectancy was only 4 to 7 years shorter than that of the United States of America, despite the latter having an approximately 75 times greater per capita GNP (Franke and Chasin, 1994). Clearly, the state is outperforming classical expectations of development based on economic growth.

However, simply comparing GNP and life expectancy does not tell the whole story of a population’s health. Fortunately for Kerala, nearly all the other metrics are equally favorable.

By the end of 1991, Kerala had achieved 100% literacy, while the rest of India lagged behind at only 52 percent. In keeping with Kerala’s tradition of citizen-led movements, the 1989 Total Literacy Campaign which enabled Kerala to reach this goal was run in large part by the Kerala People’s Science Movement, a 70,000 member volunteer organization (Franke and Chasin 1994). Though literacy had regressed in Kerala by 1994, it retained the unique characteristic of being relatively equitably distributed between men and women. While the male literacy rate was 93.6%, female literacy was still 86.3%, which was 35 points higher than general literacy in the rest of the country. In contrast to this seven point literacy gap in Kerala, the difference across India was 25 percentage points – male literacy was 64%, and female literacy only 39% (Parayil 2000). Additionally, there is evidence that literacy in Kerala is not just learned as routine, but is put to active use. Despite their poverty, Kerala’s citizens have the highest newspaper consumption in all of India, supporting the assertion that “literacy in a progressive and mobilized political environment also enhances political awareness” (Franke and Chasin 1994). Kerala’s remarkable literacy rates are certainly an achievement in and of themselves; they speak to a remarkably far-reaching and engaging educational system. Even more important, however, is the fact that literacy in Kerala has a greater connotation, that it signals a well-informed populace, able to participate actively as citizens.

Literacy is only one metric of development, and it speaks little to the physical health of the population. However, it is not the only improvement in the lives of impoverished Keralites which was implemented by the radical regimes of the 1950s and 60s. In a 1981 census which measured the percentage of villages which had access to specific vital resources, Kerala ranked first among Indian states in nearly every category, ranging from schools, to food ration shops, to post offices and hospitals. A similar survey found that while India as a whole had only 263 hospital beds per 100,000 people living in urban areas, Kerala had nearly twice that, at 458. The difference was even more marked in rural areas, where for 100,000 people India averaged 12 beds and Kerala averaged 107, despite being significantly poorer (Franke and Chasin 1994). Though the region was still extremely impoverished, even compared to other Indian states, the resources which it did have were distributed more equitably, resulting in a higher basic standard of living and better access to healthcare.

This speaks to the prevalence of the institutions of care, but a still more biological analysis of population health is also necessary. In addition to Kerala’s high life expectancy, it also had by 1991 an infant mortality rate of 17 per 1,000 live births, as opposed to the all-India rate of 85. Infant mortality per thousand in comparably low-income countries was 91, while in the USA it was 9 (Franke and Chasin 1994). Whereas between 1990 and 1996, only 34% of births in India were attended by trained health personnel, in Kerala 94% of births were attended, a fact which no doubt contributes to Kerala’s relatively low infant mortality (Parayil 2000). Kerala also has a relatively low birth rate; at 20 per 1,000, it’s much closer to the USA’s 16 than India’s 31 or other low-income countries’ 38 (Franke and Chasin 1994). These indicators – high life expectancy, low infant mortality, and low birth rate – all correspond with increased access to effective medical care, which is especially remarkable given the overall dearth of wealth in Kerala. These strong health metrics epitomize the central paradox of Kerala, that of accomplishing more with less.

However, the area of public health in which that trope of accomplishing more with less shows through most strongly is nutrition. Since the Indian food shortages of 1964, Kerala has used ration shops to provide nutrition for the most destitute. As a result of rationing and similar food provision programs, like free school and nursery lunches “nutrition in Kerala is equal or superior to that of other parts of India” (Franke and Chasin 1994). It is certainly true that Kerala suffers from less widespread malnutrition than the rest of India. Between 1988 and 1990, the percentage of children in Kerala who suffered from severe undernourishment was only 1.6% or 2.4% for boy and girls respectively, compared to the all-India rate of 9% (Parayil 2000). However, it is likely that this is not actually the result of a significantly increased per capita caloric intake (Indians averaged about 2100 calories per day in the early 80s, while estimates for Kerla ranged from 1600-2300), but rather from a mode of distribution which assures even the most indigent of their basic requirements, as well as from better access to primary healthcare centers, which can treat the effects of improper nutrition if necessary. The public food distribution system in Kerala is widely considered the most effective in the state, and 90% of individuals hold ration cards (Ramachandran 2000). However, it is important to note that these food reforms were not simply handed down from the administration, rather “it was primarily the outcome of decades of struggle by workers and tenant farmers to control the landlords and other elite forces exploiting them” (Franke and Chasin 1994). In this way, Kerala’s history of mass movements plays out on even the smallest scale, the individual bodies of its citizens.

The mobilization of Kerala’s citizens does not just change policy; it affects their health on the level of both a single individual and the entire population. The ability to effectively represent their own needs, enabled by a critical education, allowed the people of Kerala to pass redistributive reforms, in particular regarding land, food, and education, which in turn have a direct beneficial effect on their health as measured by any number of indicators. There are problems with this radical approach. One of the most common critiques is that the sort of social safety net in place in Kerala creates a welfare state, where people have no real motivation to work. And at first glance, troubling economic statistics like Kerala’s 25% unemployment rate seem to support this view. However, unemployment is a much deeper historical problem in Kerala; it existed long before the communist ministries. Additionally the unemployment crisis in Kerala is most severe in agriculture, where male laborers averaged only 147 working days per year in 1983-84 (Franke and Chasin 1994). Both these factors ought to be taken into account when looking for the cause of Kerala’s unemployment.

Because unemployment is a historic trend in Kerala, its cause must also be historic. The most likely candidate is Kerala’s extremely high population density; at 786 people per square kilometer, it is nearly three times that of the rest of India (Parayil 2000). This explains both the longstanding nature of Kerala’s underemployment and the fact that there are simply too many people to work the land every day. As more underlying causes of unemployment are fleshed out, the welfare state argument loses traction, and it becomes clear that the effect of the redistributive reforms in Kerala is not to discourage work, but to create a backup system for those who cannot find it. These reforms were designed and militantly put in place by the advocacy of the least advantaged members of society, in order to protect their most basic needs, like land and food. The citizens in question are both unreservedly motivated and extremely effective because of their high level of education, and their advocacy leads to a state with a standard of living much more advanced than its economic growth metrics suggest is possible.

Kerala in a Broader Context

Kerala is a large state, but it is still only a tiny fraction of a much larger developing world. However, its role as an alternative model of development makes Kerala of huge importance in the question of whether a similarly radical set of reforms would have the same effect in other places. The argument put forth in Franke and Chasin’s book is that the success of Kerala was locally defined, enabled by the specific conditions of Kerala’s ecology, history, and people’s movements (1994). However, to say that the specificity of the conditions which preceded Kerala’s transformation preclude similar reforms in other regions is disingenuous. Though Kerala’s evenly dispersed resources (and therefore evenly dispersed population) may have made it easier to develop a comprehensive education system, the prevalence of similarly literate societies in regions as dissimilar as Azerbaijan, Cuba, and Equatorial Guinea makes shows that this primary goal of universal education can be accomplished in diverse settings if prioritized (UN Statistics Division 2011). From this understanding, the emphasis placed on the specific people and history of Kerala can be reexamined as just part of the impact of early educational reforms. Through education, the citizens of Kerala were able to bring about for themselves the reforms they needed most, and though there are certainly extraordinary challenges associated with instituting full literacy to the point of critical consciousness, they are not categorically prohibitive in the rest of the developing world. Nor are the beneficial effects of early education only evident in that particular state – a 1991 study with compared the differences in development between four Scandinavian countries and four comparably-sized Latin American ones identified the two critical components of the relative advancement of the Scandinavian countries as education and early land reform, a trend supported centuries later and half a world away in Kerala (Thorp 1993). Kerala, though a current and compelling model, is not the only evidence that a policy of radical reform and redistribution, informed by the advocacy of the people most affected, produces significantly better health and development outcomes than pursuing a never-ending policy of economic growth.

Why then, does the trope of economic growth as the premiere mode for human development persist? Despite being outmoded and possibly even counterproductive, that particular holdover from colonial ideology retains its power in the same way that the caste system endured for so long – by being a traditional authority, institutionalized over centuries. Throughout the colonial ages, it was simply the goal to get more, to grow straight through the edges of the map. Over time, this idea of expansion as the only possible method of development solidified and the colonial process which brought it into being became opaque. It existed as its own reality, a law of development. Kerala (and increasingly more and more research on similar phenomena) challenges this traditional understanding that development means economic growth because this growth comes at the expense of increased inequality and often does nothing to advance the interests of the vast majority of society. It shows that traditional models of growth fail to take into account the potential of a consciously educated and mobilized population, that such populations can and have instituted radical reforms policies through mass advocacy which end up drastically raising the quality of life for all citizens.

The problem which Kerala highlights in global health, is the persistence of traditional modes of examining development, of building more more instead of accomplishing more with less. The solution is then being willing to use seemingly radical techniques and reforms to accomplish development on a human scale, as opposed to on the economic scale it is measured on now. Put simply, it is the difference between raising life expectancy and raising GNP. However, the implementation of these reforms cannot be put equally simply, for the fundamental reason that the radical changes in society have to come from the advocacy of the population which they purport to affect. As such, education, not just for routine literacy, but for critical consciousness, is a vital first step. It teaches citizens to integrate meaningfully with the world around them, to define it rather than just adapt to it (Freire 2008). The definitions of how to achieve human health and developmental success which countries struggling to survive in the Darwinian world of global economic development could come to are unknown, but Kerala shows that critically examining one’s context and making, by mass protest if necessary, the appropriate adjustments leads to a radically more healthy, egalitarian, and meaningfully informed society.

Bardhan, Pranab. The Role of Governance in Economic Development: a Political Economy Approach . Paris: OECD, 1997. Print.

Berger, Peter L., and Thomas Luckmann. The Social Construction of Reality: a Treatise in the Sociology of Knowledge . New York: Anchor, 1967. Print

Farmer, Paul, Arthur Kleinman, Jim Kim, and Matthew Basilico, eds. Global Health: A Biosocial Approach . Print.

Farmer, Paul. “On Suffering and Structural Violence.” Pathologies of Power . Berkeley: University of California, 2005.

Fickett, Lewis P. “The Praja Socialist Party of India — 1952-1972: A Final Assessment.” Asian Survey 13.9 (1973): 826-32. JSTOR . Web

Franke, Richard W., and Barbara H. Chasin. Kerala: Radical Reform as Development in an Indian State . Oakland, CA: Inst. for Food and Development Policy, 1994. Print.

Freire, Paulo, and Ana Maria Araújo Freire. Pedagogy of Hope: Reliving Pedagogy of the Oppressed . London: Continuum, 2004. Print.

Freire, Paulo. Education for Critical Consciousness . London: Continuum, 2008. Print.

Freund, Peter. “Accomplishing More with Less.” Capitalism Nature Socialism 20.2 (2009): 126-29. Print.

Heller, P. “Moving the State: The Politics of Democratic Decentralization in Kerala, South Africa, and Porto Alegre.” Politics & Society 29.1 (2001): 131-63.

Jeffrey, Robin. Politics, Women, and Well-being: How Kerala Became “a Model” New Delhi: Oxford UP, 1992. Print.

Merton, Robert K. “The Unanticipated Consequences of Purposive Social Action.” American Sociologial Review 1 (1936): 894-904.

Minkler, Meredith. Community Organizing and Community Building for Health . New Brunswick [u.a.: Rutgers Univ., 1997. Print.

Parayil, Govindan, ed. Kerala: the Development Experience . London: Zed, 2000. Print.

Radhakrishnan, P. ,. Peasant Struggles, Land Reforms, and Social Change: Malabar, 1836-1982 . New Delhi: Sage Publications, 1989. Print.

Thorp, Rosenary. “Review of Magnus Blomstrom and Patricio Meller, Eds, Diverging Paths: Comparing a Century of Scandinavian and Latin American Economic Development .” In Economic Journal 103 (1993): 420.

United N ations S tatistics D ivision . (2011). Retrieved from http://unstats.un.org/unsd/demographic/products/socind/literacy.htm

Weber, Max. On Bureaucracy . From Max Weber: Essays in Sociology. 1946 New York: Oxford University Press.

Weber, Max. The Theory of Social and Economic Organization . Ed. Talcott Parsons. London: Free of Glencoe, 1964. Print.

View all posts

Share this article:

Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

View all journals
Explore content
About the journal
Publish with us
Sign up for alerts
27 March 2024

Tweeting your research paper boosts engagement but not citations

Bianca Nogrady

You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Even before recent complaints about X's declining quality, posting a paper on the social media platform did not translate to a boost in citations. Credit: Matt Cardy/Getty

Posting about a research paper on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) doesn’t translate into a bump in citations, according to a study that looked at 550 papers.

The finding comes as scientists are moving away from the platform in the wake of changes after its 2022 purchase by entrepreneur Elon Musk.

An international group of 11 researchers, who by the end of the experiment between them had nearly 230,000 followers on X, examined whether there was evidence that posting about a paper would increase its citation rate.

“There certainly is a correlation, and that’s been found in a lot of papers. But very few people have ever looked to see whether there’s any experimental causation,” says Trevor Branch, a marine ecologist at the University of Washington in Seattle and lead author on the paper, published in PLoS ONE last week 1 .

Every month for ten months, each researcher was allocated a randomly selected primary research article or review from a journal of their choice to post about on their personal account. Four randomly chosen articles from the same edition of the journal served as controls, which the researchers did not post about. They conducted the experiment in the period before Elon Musk took ownership of what was then known as Twitter and complaints of its declining quality increased.

‘Nail in the coffin’

Three years after the initial posts, the team compared the citation rates for the 110 posted articles with those of the 440 control articles, and found no significant difference. The researchers did acknowledge that their followers may not have have been numerous enough to detect a statistically significant effect on citations.

The rate of daily downloads for the posted papers was nearly fourfold higher on the day that they were shared, compared with controls. Shared papers also had significantly higher accumulated Altmetric scores both 30 days and three years after the initial post. Calculated by London-based technology company Digital Science, an Altmetric score, says Branch, is a measure of how many people have looked at a paper and are talking about it, but it’s not a reliable indicator of a paper’s scientific worth. “It’s thoroughly biased by how many people with large followings tweet about it,” he says.

The findings echo those of information scientist Stefanie Haustein at the University of Ottawa, whose 2013 study 2 found a low correlation between posts and citations.

Haustein says the problem with using posts as a metric is that, even a decade ago, there was a lot of noise in the signal.

“We actually showed that a lot of the counts on Twitter you would get were bots, it wasn’t even humans,” says Haustein, who wasn’t involved in the new study.

She says the more recent departure of scientists from the platform has been the final nail in the coffin of the idea that posting could increase citations.

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00922-y

Branch, T. A. et al. PLoS ONE 19 , e0292201 (2024).

Article PubMed Google Scholar

Haustein, S., Peters, I., Sugimoto, C. R., Thelwall, M. & Larivière, V. J. Assoc. Inf. Sci. Technol. 65, 656–669 (2014).

Article Google Scholar

Download references

Reprints and permissions

Communication
Scientific community

Divas, captains, ghosts, ants and bumble-bees: collaborator attitudes explained

Career Column 15 MAR 24

Three actions PhD-holders should take to land their next job

Career Column 13 MAR 24

This geologist communicates science from the ski slopes

Career Q&A 11 MAR 24

How OpenAI’s text-to-video tool Sora could change science – and society

News 12 MAR 24

Giant plume of plasma on the Sun’s surface and more — February’s best science images

News 01 MAR 24

Passion, curiosity and perseverance: my mission to capture women in science on camera

Career Q&A 01 FEB 24

Cuts to postgraduate funding threaten Brazilian science — again

Correspondence 26 MAR 24

Superconductivity case shows the need for zero tolerance of toxic lab culture

‘Exhausted and insulted’: how harsh visa-application policies are hobbling global research

World View 26 MAR 24

Postdoctoral Fellow

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD and/or MD graduate to work in the Cardiovascular research lab in the Tulane University Department of Medicine.

New Orleans, Louisiana

School of Medicine Tulane University

Posdoctoral Fellow Positions in Epidemiology & Multi-Omics Division of Network Medicine BWH and HMS

Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School are seeking applicants for 3 postdoctoral positions.

Boston, Massachusetts

Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH)

Postdoctoral Scholar - Ophthalmology

Memphis, Tennessee

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC)

Principal Investigator in Modeling of Plant Stress Responses

Join our multidisciplinary and stimulative research environment as Associate Professor in Modeling of Plant Stress Responses

Umeå (Kommun), Västerbotten (SE)

Umeå Plant Science Centre and Integrated Science Lab

Postdoctoral Associate- Cellular Neuroscience

Houston, Texas (US)

Baylor College of Medicine (BCM)

Quick links

Explore articles by subject
Guide to authors
Editorial policies

IMAGES

The Kerala Backwaters and How to Best Visit Them
Lovely visuals in Kerala
30 Kerala Images That Will Make You Want To Visit Kerala
Kerala Nature Desktop Wallpapers
Kerala Nature Wallpapers
Kerala Nature Wallpapers

VIDEO

Short note on kerala
Land Of Spices Kerala
Calicut University 2nd Sem Readings on kerala Important Essay Questions
PAN KERALA ESSAY DISCUSSION
PART 2 PAN KERALA ESSAY DISCUSSION I OBG I ACADEMIC CLUB I COLLEGE UNION'23 CALICUT MEDICAL COLLEGE
#mallu #explore #nature Kerala vibes

COMMENTS

Essay on Kerala for Students
Kerala truly embodies the essence of 'God's Own Country', offering a glimpse into a unique blend of nature, culture, and development. That's it! I hope the essay helped you. If you're looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics: Essay on Culture of Kerala; Essay on Cultural Programme; Essay on Heritage Handloom
Kerala
Kerala is a region of great natural beauty. In the eastern part of the state, Anai Peak (8,842 feet [2,695 metres]), the highest peak of peninsular India, crowns the Western Ghats.Descending from the rocky highlands westward toward the coastal plain is a stretch of farmlands, with different crops cultivated at different elevations. Along the coast, a linked chain of lagoons and backwaters form ...
Short Essay: Kerala
Kerala Essay Example 3. Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is a state that is known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. The state is also renowned for its unique cuisine, which is a blend of traditional and modern flavors. This essay will explore the various aspects of Kerala, including its natural ...
Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Kerala: God's Own Country
For adventure enthusiasts, Kerala offers plenty of options such as trekking, hiking, and camping in its lush forests. Munnar, a hill station located in the Western Ghats, is a paradise for nature lovers. The picturesque tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic trails offer a perfect retreat for those who seek tranquility amidst nature.
Flora And Fauna Kerala
Kerala is home to a wide range of reptiles and some of the common reptiles registered in this state include King cobra, python, viper, crocodiles and species of turtles. Avians. Kerala is a paradise for birdwatchers because of the wide range of bird species available in the state. This scenic destination is blessed with nearly 453 species of birds.
Human by Nature, and the beauty of Kerala
Kerala's nature is diverse, and you can be at the beach enjoying the sun and palm trees in the morning and later in the day walking through the tea plantations in Munnar. One of the most touching experiences in Kerala was sleeping in a boat driving through the backwaters, where I could watch the most beautiful sunset and hear the birds while ...
Kerala
Kerala is a perfect goal for individuals who appreciate move, dramatization, music and celebrations. It has an assortment of works of art, which are very one of a kind in nature to Kerala, as Kathakali, Ottamthullal and numerous others. These fine arts enable us to submerge in feelings that we from time to time involvement.
Landscape
Kerala lies between latitudes 8°.17'.30" N and 12°. 47'.40" N and longitudes74°.27'47" E and 77°.37'.12" E. Based on the geography, Kerala can be divided into three. They are 'Mala Nadu' (High land or hilly region), Ida Nadu (Mid land or plains) and Theera pradesham (Coastal region or low land). The hilly region, located adjacent to the ...
Culture of Kerala
Location of Kerala in India Temple Procession in Kanhangad. The culture of Kerala has developed over the past millennia, influences from other parts of India and abroad. It is defined by its antiquity and the organic continuity sustained by the Malayali people. Modern Kerala society took shape owing to migrations from different parts of India and abroad throughout Classical Antiquity.
Tourism In Kerala: A Comprehensive Overview
Respect nature: Kerala is known for its natural beauty, including backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. Visitors should respect nature by not littering and avoiding activities that can harm the environment. Kerala offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Visitors should be open to new experiences, respectful of local customs, and take ...
Wildlife of Kerala
Evergreen forests. Most of Kerala's significantly biodiverse tracts of wilderness lie in the evergreen forests of its easternmost districts; coastal Kerala (along with portions of the east) mostly lies under cultivation and is home to comparatively little wildlife. Despite this, Kerala contains 9,400 km 2 of natural forests. Out of the approximately 7,500 km 2 of non-plantation forest cover ...
Wild Animals of Kerala: A Marvelous Journey into Nature's Bounty
This is one of the best places to see Wild Animals Of Kerala. Apart from tigers, the reserve is also home to elephants, leopards, wild boars, and various species of deer. 2. Silent Valley National ...
KERALA-Know Everything Real About A Land of Attractions
KERALA: The god's own country is one of the major tourist attraction as well as the best honeymoon destination in India. The land of God, Kerala is believed to be a gift of the Arabian Sea. The pride of Kerala are Gorgeous and Exotic Beaches, Breathtaking hill Stations, Enchanting waterfalls, Beautiful lagoons, Meandering rivers and Amazing natural scenarios.
7 beauties of kerala
6. People's lifestyle. The lifestyle of people in Kerala is influenced by its rich cultural heritage, natural surroundings, and deep-rooted traditions. Known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere and extensive secularism, Kerala offers a unique way of life deeply connected to nature and community.
PDF Tracing the Evolutionary Socio-Cultural Trajectory in Kerala: A
Kerala in its prehistoric era and contrast it with Kerala today. ... the tribulations, superstitions, and close bonds that existed between people and nature in prehistoric Kerala. The Legends of Khasak is an amazing book that explores the essence of ancient Kerala by fusing myth and reality. The book provides a deep reflection on tradition ...
Exploring the Exhilarating Art Forms of Kerala
Image - Anantha Krishnan. Kerala is a land of exhilarating and breathtaking beauty. Composed of paddy fields and lined by coconut trees, with a gentle touch of the forests, it is no wonder that Kerala is recognized as"God's Own Country."Set in the southernmost part of India, Kerala is a state where the laws of unity, tranquility, and harmony reign supreme.
Palakkad: where nature unleashes its beauty
Palakkad: where nature unleashes its beauty. Palakkad is often referred to as the granary of Kerala. Some would even call it the city of majestic forts. In fact this northwestern district is a store house of incredible sights and holds a significant position in the historical map of Kerala. Malampuzha dam, Tipu Sultan Fort, Kalpathy heritage ...
Creating Pantheon -Nature, Colours and Beliefs: A Visual Narrative of
The core idea of this essay is to elucidate the process through which people create and worship local gods and goddesses in Kerala, India. By using a series of photographs, this essay portrays the life of the performers and the process of becoming gods in the traditional shrines of a vernacular religious system in Hinduism.
How Local Governments in Kerala Play Crucial Roles During ...
This article analyzes how Kerala, geographically situated in a natural disaster-prone area, fought three calamities in 2018, viz., (1) the floods, (2) the Nipah virus, and (3) Covid-19 epidemic, bravely. It focusses on how Kerala society has resilience against calamities and the role of local governments (panchayats) in saving people's lives.
Growth And Success In Kerala
The most likely candidate is Kerala's extremely high population density; at 786 people per square kilometer, it is nearly three times that of the rest of India (Parayil 2000). This explains both the longstanding nature of Kerala's underemployment and the fact that there are simply too many people to work the land every day.
Are we all doomed? How to cope with the daunting uncertainties ...
Climate is coupled to all these problems, in one way or another. But as scary as many direct consequences of climate change will be at 2 °C of warming or more, the greatest harm, at least in the ...
Cutting-edge CAR-T cancer therapy is now made in India
The first CAR-T therapy was approved in the United States in 2017, and commercial CAR-T therapies currently cost between $370,000 and $530,000, not including hospital fees and drugs to treat side ...
DLEF essay prize for 2024 launched
Metrics. The Dental Law and Ethics Forum (DLEF) has announced the launch of its essay prize for 2024. This prestigious prize, now in its third year, is designed to inspire young dentists to engage ...
Debates on the nature of artificial general intelligence
The term "artificial general intelligence" (AGI) has become ubiquitous in current discourse around AI. OpenAI states that its mission is "to ensure that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity.". DeepMind's company vision statement notes that "artificial general intelligence…has the potential to drive one of the ...
Tweeting your research paper boosts engagement but not citations
Posting about a research paper on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) doesn't translate into a bump in citations, according to a study that looked at 550 papers. The finding ...

Essay on Kerala

100 Words Essay on Kerala

Geographical Features

Culture and Tradition

250 Words Essay on Kerala

Cultural Richness

Economic Activities

Environmental Conservation

500 Words Essay on Kerala

Geographical Splendor

Cultural Heritage

Economy and Development

Education and Literacy

Healthcare and Social Welfare

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

blog , Travel Guide

History and Culture of Kerala

Traditional Food and Cuisine of Kerala

Art Forms and Festivals in Kerala

Natural Beauty of Kerala

Ayurveda and Wellness Tourism in Kerala

Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Kerala

Famous Tourist Destinations in Kerala

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Flora And Fauna Of Kerala

SOMETIMES JOURNEY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE DESTINATION

Hire Luxury Tempo Traveller In Kerala

Karmic Luxury Travel Service Offers Vans, Traveller & Coaches For Group Transportation In Kochi, ( Cochin ), Kerala For Best Fares.

Human by Nature, and the beauty of Kerala

Kerala’s cultural diversity

Kerala and its natural beauty

People in Kerala

Related posts:

Gloria Apara

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

My Podcast in Spanish

Kerala – The Land of Culture

Cite this Essay

Related Essays

Still can’t find what you need?

Related Topics

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

Tourism in Kerala: A Comprehensive Overview

The geography of Kerala

KERALA-Know Everything Real About A Land of Attractions

Top 10 Reason and Place to Visit i n Kerala

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You May Also Like

The One Liner

Let's dive right in..

Final Thoughts

Welcome to the enchanting land of Kerala, a true gem on the Southwestern coast of India!

1.2 Charming Hill Stations

1.3 Pristine Beaches

It doesn’t stop here!

1.4 Enchanting Waterfalls

1.5 Vibrant Sunsets:

2. Exotic Wildlife and Rich Diversity

3. Cultural Heritage and Traditions

3.1 Religious Importance

Let’s dig deeper!

4. Ayurvedic treatments and wellness practices

Believe it or not!

5. Kerala Cuisines

Now, let's talk about Snacks and Sweets

6. People’s lifestyle

Related Post

Subscribe to new post

Exploring the Exhilarating Art Forms of Kerala

Table of contents

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

INSPIRING READS

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon. Learn more

Palakkad: where nature unleashes its beauty

Palakkad fort – A reminder of Mysore's campaigns in Malabar

Enjoy your perfect Palakkad picnic in Malampuzha

Stay in Munnar for just Rs 1 on March 27; promises night guides’ association

Jacaranda trees in full bloom attract visitors to Munnar

IHCL’s ‘Scenic Hotel’ open in Munnar

She lodge opened in Kozhikode