Attukal Pongala

Attukal Pongala is a famous annual festival celebrated in Kerala. It is considered one of the largest gatherings of women for a religious purpose in the world. During the festival, women prepare a special offering called "pongala," which is a sweet dish made of rice, jaggery (a type of sugar), coconut, and other ingredients. They cook this dish in earthen pots on makeshift stoves made of bricks and coconut shells, along the streets and lanes surrounding the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The festival is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhagavathy, and it attracts millions of devotees from different parts of India.

The Kaveri River

The Kaveri River, revered as the 'Ganga of the South,' is not just a river but a lifeline for millions in India, embodying the vital essence of life, or "Prana." This sacred river, flowing through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, is a cradle of agriculture, biodiversity, and spiritual practices. Its waters, believed to have purifying qualities, support a rich tapestry of life, nurturing not only the land but also the souls of those who dwell along its banks. The festivals and rituals that grace its shores are a testament to the deep spiritual connection the people share with the river, celebrating its generosity and seeking its blessings for prosperity and well-being.

However, the Kaveri also faces challenges such as water disputes and environmental degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable management to preserve its life-giving essence for future generations. This river is a reminder of our interconnectedness with nature and the importance of living in harmony with our environment. Through its journey, the Kaveri River encapsulates the resilience, vitality, and spirit of India, urging us to reflect on our role in safeguarding this invaluable natural heritage.

Jallikattu 2024

My visit to Jallikattu this year was somewhat brief, limited by the usual demands of work and personal schedules. Additionally, the event was more regulated than in previous years, with increased police presence for health and safety reasons, which restricted access to most areas. Frustrating and I imagine defeats the origins of the sport being for the people. Despite these changes, the enthusiasm and energy of the crowd remained a constant. It was clear that the spirit of Jallikattu still resonated strongly with everyone there. The participants displayed their usual mix of pride and skill, while those experiencing the event for the first time reacted with a mix of excitement and apprehension [they were petrified].

Khwae Noi

Finding serenity by the Khwae Noi River has been a delightful experience. Though I've visited this river previously, this section is a new discovery for me. We stumbled upon a charming, rustic cabin-style hotel, nestled perfectly in the natural surroundings. As the day gradually transitions into evening, the anticipation of a stunning sunset grows. This tranquil setting is the perfect antidote to the intense, bustling travel adventures we recently had in India. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding.

Developing

As the year draws to a close, the anticipation of developing and scanning my latest rolls of film is building. Embarking on the journey of film photography has been a blend of excitement and challenges. I'm still tempering my expectations, aware that each frame is a step in my learning curve. However, the prospect of continual practice and introspection fills me with optimism about the improvements I can make.

I'm equally eager to delve into the intricacies of darkroom techniques. The magic of watching images come to life in the dim glow of the red light is something I'm looking forward to experiencing and mastering. This hands-on process feels like a rite of passage in the world of film photography, and I'm ready to embrace it.