Leaving Mysore on another overnight train and heading to Cochin in Kerala. I’m not sure why, but the train was full of Swamis, they’re the Hindu religious version of a coach full of inebriated men. Almost like university supporters. For example, one Swami would shout “Swamiye” and another Swami would shout ‘Awooga’. This repeated all through out the evening. I found it very amusing to see a religion being more like a sport. They even wore the same colored clothes! It would’ve been so funny if when we arrived at a station and a rival Swami group came aboard wearing different color clothes.
My first impression of Kerala was that it was more touristy than I thought it would be, but Kerala is one of the richest states in India and has had tourists travelling here for centuries, so I shouldn’t be too surprised. I can’t even tell that the Tsunami. ever hit here, which is a testimony to how the people here love Cochin. Before I came here, I was warned very strongly that the place is in ruins. But, I found no evidence of this.
I found Cochin to be a wonderful varied town with many cultural sights. I went to see a Kathakali after I checked into one of the best hotels Kerala offers her travellers. Kathakali is a distinctly Keralan form of theater that performs ancient Hindu stories without ever using a word! They use intricate sign-language, facial expressions and musical rhythms to tell the tale. The one I went to lasted into the wee hours of the morning, I didn’t know about that part. After it was over is when I found they offer an abridged version for the tourists, which only lasts three hours. But, I’m actually glad I attended the full version, because I was so enthralled with all the detail and care that went into this production, this art-form.
So, I’ll have to change my plans for tomorrow, I mean today. I need some sleep, long sleep.
No related posts.