God's Own Country

 KERALA

Kerala is a state in the Republic of India. It is in the south-west of the country. The west coast of the state is on the Arabian Sea.

The capital city of the state is Thiruvananthapuram, even though the city of kochi, is more densely populated. The area of Kerala which is bigger than Bhutan but smaller than Switzerland. In traditional Indian geography, it is part of South India.

There are 14 districts in Kerala. They are Alappuzha,  Ernakulam, Idukki, Kannur,Kasargode, Kollam, Kottayam,  Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Pathanamthitta,Thrissur, Thiruvananthapuram and Wayanad.

People in Kerala speak Malayalam. More than 90% of the people can read the language. A mix of English and Malayalam is called Manglish. Manglish is used by people in Kerala, who can speak it very easily and fluently.

Kerala is one of India's most progressive states in terms of social welfare and quality of life.

Paradise of variety foods

Kerala cuisine is famous for its mouthwatering recipes and authentic Malayali dishes. Kerala food is spicy and delectable.Kerala has its own distinctive cuisine using the ingredients locally available. Sea food is popular among Malayalees. The evolution of the culinary style of Kerala can be traced to the society, culture, history and topography of the state.

The local Kerala food,both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, includes a lot of coconut as that is grown aplenty in the coastal areas. Grated coconut is included in virtually every dish. Coconut milk is used to make the gravies and lends a sweet tinge to the cooking. The oil used for cooking also is mainly coconut or vegetable oil. The red variety of rice (Kuththari)that grows well in this fertile soil is the staple food.

The vegetarian cuisine of Kerala is mildly flavored, gently cooked and is light on the stomach.The non vegetarian Malayalee food items are spicy and scrumptious.Sea food such as fish, crabs, shellfish, and lobsters are included in everyday cooking especially in the coastal regions. Smaller varieties of fish are dried,salted and pickled. They may or may not be fried before consumption. Sardines and Mackerel are the everyday fish.

Arts & Cultures

The culture and heritage of Kerala is one that everyone must experience. The culture of Kerala is a combination of both Indian and Dravidian culture. Now days this culture is being influenced by the neighboring states as well. The main USP of Kerala is its performing arts like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam and Martial Art of Kalaripayattu. As for the heritage of Kerala, it can be said that this heritage holds a special and important place in the Indian history. Providing a national integrity is the Kerala Heritage.

Kathakali – A 300 year old dance that combines opera, ballet, masque and pantomime.

Mohiniyattam - The dance of a beautiful enchantress

Kalaripayattu - a martial art form that involves synchronizing the mind and body.

Each of the festival in Kerala is celebrated with all its pomp and grandeur. The main festivals of Kerala include Onam, Vishu, Eid, Thrissur Pooram and many more. In some of these festivals like Pooram, the main aspect is the procession, where elephants are decorated and taken out to the temple grounds.