How many of us want to relive our childhood memories?? I know I do...the fun memories at least. I did exactly that on my recent visit to Mangalore - my native place.
Mangalore...just the name brings back so many recollections of the past. We visited Mangalore during vacations. Interestingly, I hated the place as a kid. Well, not exactly 'hated', but I was never really thrilled to visit either. The moment we set foot in the city, I would ask my parents when we would be heading back home. Don't get me wrong .... the place is beautiful. Being a city girl, I couldn't help but think of it as a sleepy weepy village far away from civilization (of course, this was much much before the IT boom). Relatives in Mangalore thought we have returned from a distant planet. They'd be surprised we could speak fluent Tulu - our native tongue. I would never recognize or remember who is who (our visits were few and far between). And Mum would ask if I recognized this "uncle" or "aunty"? knowing full well that I had no clue...it was her little game. Worst of all was the humidity. I just hated it. That is exactly what I hate about Kerala and Goa (actually Mumbai too !!) as well. Breathtaking views everywhere but the tropical climate is definitely not to my liking. I'd sweat like a pig and it drove me crazy. Not to mention the insects and vermin... Phew! Was I ranting ?? Okay I was. Got carried away....
I might have grown up disliking my native land, but a few recent visits seem to have changed all of that. My first 'sojourn' in a long time was in May last year when I went (somewhat reluctantly) with all my aunts and cousins for a family outing. We never got a chance to go shopping. But had a good time all the same. Not just the stay but the journey also was enjoyable. Dotted with coconut trees, quaint gable-roofed houses, temples, churches, and beaches Mangalore city is a photographer's delight. The next two visits were over the last two weekends with my mother. They were hurried stopovers at best. But I had a great time taking in the atmosphere and beauty of the place.
Here are a few random clicks .....
These are a few pictures of the mimosa shrub (also known as "touch-me-nots" or "sensitive plants") the fold/droop inwards when touched. As a child, I would walk all along the paths covered with these shrubs with one hand outstretched to lightly touch all the mimosa leaves within my reach, with my fingertips, and the leaves would fold inward when touched. I remember how delighted I would be at the sight of the leaves closing in. It was a favorite pass time. I couldn't help revisiting the memory lane... :)
These were clicked early in the morning on the bus ride.
That's my uncle's house (left). Its surrounded by lush green fields ...and that chair is his favorite place(right) where he spends time time reading his newspapers and catching up with friends.
My mom and aunt walking away into the sunset.
Coconut grove......
Some more clicks...
The pictures send into a space of tranquil. A nice place to visit if you need a break from the city crowds. Quiet and picturesque, it simply leaves you wanting more...
Cheers,
Aditi
