Adding More "Lalalas" in #Kerala


Sights, Cultural Insights and Lots of Food!

St. Theresa's Shrine, Mahe (U.T.):

Peregrination across North Malabar can take one to many shrines, temples, mosques and churches. A visit to Mahe introduces one to the St. Theresa's Shrine within Mahe, an erstwhile French colony and now a designated Union Territory. Saint Theresa was considered as a holy lady, who worked for the upliftment of social classes and was instrumental in improving human rights. She was bestowed with sainthood for her exclusive humanitarian activities and social work.

The Saint Theresa shrine, welcomes people of all faiths for the daily mass, special sermons and yearly Christmas celebration. A prime example of how different cultures and religions can coexist peacefully, without any prejudices. The shrine is a must visit, when in Mahe. The serenity one experiences, when inside the shrine is worth it.👐💟💫

 "Pooja Veedu" or "Prayer Cabinet":

Every Hindu faith household in Kerala or rather across the vastness of the country, will have a prayer cabinet, which is home to the various idols of worship. It could include the naughty, yet highly revered Lord Krishna, the tribal Lord Muthappan, Devis Saraswati, Parvati, and Durga and even Lord Ganesha, the obstacle remover. Incense sticks, smog moulds, vermillion, ashes and mini wicker lamps also feature in the prayer cabinet for a strong and faithful experience.🙋👍👌

The 'Suvarna Villaku' or 'Deepam':

The five/six edged oil lamp with cotton wicks are lit daily, in the morning, as well as in the evening, and placed in the verandah or main entrance, as a mark of respect to the Gods. #BlessUsAll 😇😊💆

The 'Mundu' or 'Brass Water Nose':

The kindi is an important piece of equipment, as it is used to wash one's feet and legs, before and after prayers. In ancient times,  kindis were used to wash the feet of guests, before entering homes. It was considered as a good practice and an act of courteousness.🍶💦

The 'Water Lotus' Brass Pot:

Flowers from the lotus family are immersed in holy water, within a brass pot for pure decorative purposes. Flowers increase the pristine factor within the entire process of the prayer. 😇🙆👐

Tapioca Curry with Lanky Wheat Dosas:

Tapioca (read: Sabudana) is available in ample amounts within the state of Kerala and is consumed in many forms. A lightly spiced tapioca curry, with grounded pepper and curry leaves makes for a great dish. Add in some dosas to complete the meal. 😇😋😇

'Noolu Puttu' and Green Peas Masala:

These noodly rice cakes are made with a batter of white rice, salt and grated coconut. Tastes good with green peas masala or mutton curry, based on dietary preferences. 🐾🐝🐚

Influences of the Middle East:

A lot of dishes served in restaurants, do have influences from the Middle East. Like this Turkish Chicken Roll with Hummus. One can also lay eyes and dig into some decent chinese fare as well. The Pepper Chicken Masala and Kerala Porotta is a combo that just can't be missed! Try the #Sharjah shake, a rich sugar free concoction of banana ice cream and chocolate. #FeelingofBliss 👍💓🐪

Sea food and Meat Lovers Delight:

Any trip to Kerala is incomplete without lapping up some crunchy and tasty seafood. The "chemmeen" masala fry (prawns pepper masala) is worth it 'salt.' Also, worth a mention is the Kallayi Vazhatiya Korumollagu Kori (Chicken with black pepper blended in Kerala spices).  The Kerala porotta is an essential accompaniment with all these dishes. After the meal, a hot 'suleimani' (clove and mint tea) is absolutely essential to aid digestion. 💋👄👃

Rice Idlis, Mango and Drumsticks Sambhar:

Don't miss these delicacies at any cost. Dice these idlis in manageable pieces and mix it with the tangy mango chutney and sambhar for a taste beyond comprehension. #NewTasteGuaranteed ✌👅👀

'Jana Maitri' Team Biryani and Quail Fry:

The 'Jana Maitri' chicken biryani is made by a team of housewives, as a part of the food based cottage industry. Biryani with different meats are created in huge quantities and sold across the city. Beyond biryani, various other dishes like quail fry, chicken masala, mutton dry and beef on ghee rice are also sold. This provides employment for women across the state, while also empowering them towards bringing a substantial income within their families. #JanaMaitriPoornaKhushali #womanempowermentschemes 👱💁👰

The state of Kerala, has so much to offer and it is advised to visit the greenery rich towns and cities between the pre monsoon and monsoon seasons. (May-September) 🍃
Feel blessed and experience the awesomeness associated with #GodsOwnCountry Let the excitement hit the 'thatched' roofs! 🌾☘🌱

Amazing times are guaranteed! #Kerala 🌴

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