Glimpses of " The Venice of East"

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

India | Sunday, September 25, 2011 | 5 photos

I had been an Engineering student, who drifted towards Photography; on account of my extra ordinary interest in Visual images. This happened while, I had been searching people and places on Internet. As the saying goes, a picture tells the story of thousand words in a simple image.

I did a short course in photography and now occupy myself with study of people, nature and their contrast. Ours is an old civilization, deeply rooted in history, religion, philosophy and compatibility with nature. My greatest passion in life is travelling. South Africa is like a dream! I wish to learn more about other culture, different areas of world and the complex web of relationship between man and nature.. Hoping to learn more and more from this scholarship and showcase my talent to the world.

The place I recently visited is a microcosm of our social systems through the ages. “Alleppey” is the major town of district with the total area of 1414 sq. km. The town is flanked by 2195 Sq. kms of Vemband Lake; internationally famous for its scenic beauty. The 80 Kms long coast-line is joined by 6 major rivers emanating from Western Ghats. This creates a unique amalgam of green vistas with abundant water all around. I was amazed and was going crazy!
St. Thomas first visited the area about 52 A.D. Alleppey was the major port of all for spice trade with Greece, Romans and Arabs till last century. The population is mainly Hindus and Christians and the people are deeply religious. The district is a sandy strip of land intercepted by lagoons, rivers and canals. Small streams and palms dominate the surroundings. Agriculture, Fishery and coir processing is the main economic activity of the district.
Lord Curzon on his visit to place was so fascinated, that
he called it “Venice of East”.