The Western Ghats is a true marvel in the eyes of its beholders. This beautiful range of high peaks and low valleys runs parallel to the majestic western coast of India. Due to its humongous biodiversity, the region is a well-documented World Heritage site, which is UNESCO-approved.
This ancient mountain range is older than the Himalayas—which is why it’s considered a treasure trove of geographical and cultural marvels alike. The mountains are velveted with lush greenery, gorgeous misty peaks, and a vibrant array of wildlife—giving this region the nickname “Great Escarpment of India.”
The Western Ghats is also known for its magnificent stretch across the landscape of India. Not only does it cover six states, but it’s also a geographical marvel that crosses over all cultural barriers—uniting people across demographics under the majesty of its everlasting beauty.
The Western Ghats are home to an astounding variety of ecosystems. From the dense tropical rainforests of the Nilgiris to the dry deciduous forests of Karnataka, this region showcases nature’s adaptability. These varied habitats nurture over 7,400 types of flora and fauna, including many that are endemic.
For centuries, the Western Ghats have been a lifeline for the communities that live along its slopes. Its rivers, including the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, irrigate vast stretches of farmland, while its forests offer medicinal plants and spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cinnamon.
Let’s explore some iconic destinations in the Western Ghats, each offering a unique slice of this natural paradise.
Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is synonymous with the Western Ghats. Perched at an altitude of 2,240 metres, this hill station in Tamil Nadu has been a beloved retreat since the British colonial era.
Nestled amidst the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal, or “Kodai,” offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its mist-covered landscapes and cool climate make it a haven for nature lovers.
Pro Tip: If you plan your trip well, you can cover the Ooty to Kodaikanal distance efficiently to make your trips more memorable and interesting.
Tucked away in the heart of Idukki's highs and lows, Vagamon is a lesser-known destination that leaves visitors in awe of its splendid, natural beauty. With its rolling meadows, pineclad valleys, and misty hills, Vagamon feels like a slice of heaven on earth.
The Western Ghats are dotted with countless destinations, each showcasing its unique beauty and cultural significance. Let’s explore a few more jewels of this incredible mountain range.
Idukki is a treasure trove of natural wonders, from its sprawling spice plantations to its breathtaking landscapes.
Munnar, located in Kerala, is famed for its endless tea gardens and cool climate.
Want to explore Munnar in a unique way? Exploring Munnar by KSRTC Bus, Check Out for an exciting travel guide!
Wayanad, in northern Kerala, combines rich cultural heritage with natural beauty.
Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” Agumbe in Karnataka is a paradise for monsoon lovers.
Famous for its coffee plantations and misty hills, Coorg is a charming retreat.
The Western Ghats inspire more than just memories—they inspire meaningful gifts.
The Western Ghats are not merely a geographical feature; they are a celebration of life in all its forms. Each hill station, forest, and waterfall is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of nature. Whether you’re sipping tea in Munnar, walking through the pine forests of Vagamon, or exploring the wildlife in Wayanad, the Western Ghats offer an unforgettable journey.
For travellers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts, this region is an endless source of inspiration. As you leave, take with you not just souvenirs but also a deeper appreciation for the harmony between man and nature that defines the Western Ghats.
Road trips are always fond memories for avid travellers. The rustic charm of the countryside or a trip through the gorgeous hillscapes of an untouched environment are both priceless experiences—maybe even once in a lifetime.
Nature shines bright and glows green in the land of Munnar. If you are someone who wishes to visit a place that is evergreen yet has seasonal surprises that are unique and timeless—then make Munnar your next destination.
The winding hills of this gorgeous landscape rise high into the clouds. Being the highest point in South India, Munnar touches the clouds while being perched in cool and misty temperatures. It is a dream destination for anyone looking to reorient their spirit and mind.
The landscape of Munnar is composed of many gorgeous sights to behold. From lush tea gardens and glimmering waterfalls to the rolling hills that cover this green canvas—you’ll never run out of things to see here.
This rustic experience becomes even more enhanced when you decide to take a journey that puts your travels in the hands of experienced drivers—and we don’t mean hiring a cab. If you want an authentic view of Munnar's countryside, you have to take it by public transport.
This blog will take a look at how you can explore Munnar from the comfort of a special KSRTC bus route. Without further ado—let’s dive right in.
The legacy of the Kerala State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses stretches all the way back to its inception in 1938. Back then, the service operated under a different name—the Travancore State Transport Department.
As laws changed, the transport service also evolved in 1965—becoming the KSRTC that South Indians everywhere can easily recognise. At the time of its evolution, the KSRTC had only 661 bus schedules and 901 buses.
With time, those numbers have risen to staggering numbers as more and more local citizens and foreigners alike have taken to the state’s convenient and affordable form of public transportation.
In recent times, KSRTC buses have been seen as symbols of South Indian connectivity. Even the most remote corners of Kerala are not out of your reach—not while the KSRTC system is up and active.
The Munnar KSRTC route has many offshoots and scenic routes that are perfect for curious travellers looking to make a slow climb along the side of Munnar’s rolling hillscape.
Why not take a cab to Munnar? Why not rent a car? Is it safe to go by bus? These are all questions that can haunt you as you wrestle with the decision to take a bus to Munnar, so let us simplify it for you. Here are four reasons why a KSRTC ride should be part of your Munnar Trip Plan.
With the Munnar KSRTC, you get a front-row seat to witness the splendour of timeless beauty. Your Munnar KSRTC sightseeing bus will take you through winding roads that trace the hills, crossing verdant tea plantations, roaring and refreshing waterfalls, misty-covered valleys, and so much more.
The old Munnar roads are steeped in the heart of nature, offering you the chance to reconnect with nature and your desire to discover.
There are many winding roads that lead to Munnar. Most of these journeys are 3+ hours long. Taking a cab through these winding hills can be expensive, requiring the expertise of veteran drivers who know the hills—those are hard to come by. It can cost you thousands to get to the top.
OR—you can take the KSRTC. For roughly 200 INR, you can make it up the hill of Munnar without worry or hassle. The KSRTC drivers that commandeer these routes travel the old and winding Munnar roads on a daily basis. They know each turn and bend like the back of their hand—so you can rest easy knowing your wallet is full and that your life is in experienced hands.
The journey matters more than the destination. The best way to enjoy the winding roads that lead to Munnar is to take the most leisurely pace to get there. The Munnar KSRTC is your ticket to that experience.
As the wheels of the bus carry you across these winding hills, you can let your hair back to embrace the cold mountain breeze that caresses your skin. Through the open windows, you can capture the essence of nature unfiltered through your eyes and perhaps your camera.
These buses also occasionally stop at tea stalls that are placed across the winding path so that travellers can take a moment to take in the sights alongside a refreshing and warm cup of tea to go with it.
Life happens everywhere. There is a thriving population of locals who have embraced the hills of Munnar as home. If you are a traveller looking for a down-to-earth experience of everyday life in Kerala—there’s no place better than the hills.
The KSRTC allows you to indulge in Munnar's local sightseeing while being surrounded by the embrace of locals who know the history—knowledgeable locals often have better knowledge than hired tour guides.
One of the most unique offerings of KSRTC in the hills of Munnar is the iconic Munnar-Kanthalloor Tourist KSRTC bus. It is an affordable and scenic option for travellers looking to make the most of a Munnar day tour on a tight budget.
Affordability doesn’t compromise the quality of the tour. The KSRTC can act as your Munnar travel guide, so let’s take a look at the travel itinerary for tourists on the Munnar KSRTC from Munnar to Kanthalloor.
At Memory Train, we celebrate the heritage and richness of Kerala culture in all facets. That is why we have created a travel set composed of unique pieces that act as an ode to their Keralian heritage.
The set consists of a houseboat, an iconic Ambassador car, and a sleek KSRTC bus. These ceramic figures are the perfect Keralian decor to hang on your Christmas tree come wintertime. When your friends ask you about them, you can look back fondly on your Munnar KSRTC trip as you weave a yarn through a timeless Christmas tale.
If you are someone who enjoys the cultural heritage of Kerala and respects the noble standing of the KSRTC in Kerala, take a trip to our online gift shop. Handcrafted with nobility at its core, our travel set collections are designed to spark rich conversations that are steeped in your special memories.
Visit our website to know more.
The Chettinad Mansions, which form part of the rich history surrounding the town of Karaikudi and beyond, are well-known for their unique approach to lasting and sustainable architectural methods. The higher-class residents of Chettinad, known as The Chettiars, are fondly known for commissioning some of the most decadent mansions that put Chettinad’s architecture on the map.
The fusion of local craftsmanship with prominent European influences has helped artisans in this region to craft a new style of architecture that is unique to the region. The intricate woodwork, handcrafted tiles, widened courtyards, and specially designed teak doors are a beaming reflection of the local community’s ties to global trade in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
This blog will take the reader through the different aspects of the Chettinad mansions and their architecture.
The Nattukotai Chettiars and the history of Karaikudi are deeply bound together. At one point, the Nattukotai Chettiars were a prosperous community of merchants with immense knowledge and business skills.
The wealth that was amassed by the Chettiars can be seen reflected in the decadent architectures of the large Chettinad palaces that are prevalent in the region.
These homes were not just residences but status symbols designed to reflect their prosperity, cultural sophistication, and global connections.
The remnants of their marvellous mansions have now been turned into heritage hotels to preserve the legacy of the ambitious Chettiars. Tourists eagerly flock to Tamil Nadu to get a glimpse of these decadent abodes that housed the lost history and culture of the Nattukotai Chettiars.
From their base at the heart of Tamil Nadu, the Chettiars continued to scale their trade across the globe. Soon, it became pertinent for the merchants to venture out of their settlements in search of larger, more profitable business ventures.
With that, the Chettiars began to leave their gorgeous abodes for greener pastures—and they left their heritage and their history behind. These mansions that were once teeming with life and luxury slowly became heritage sites that live on as remnants of a vibrant era of prosperity.
That’s not all that affected the Chettiars; world events that transpired around them also had a wide impact on the lives and decisions of this brilliant merchant colony.
At the height of their power, the Chettiars displayed incredible wealth throughout most of Southeast Asia. At one point, nearly sixty thousand mansions lined the 96 settlement towns that had been established in the Karaikudi region of Tamil Nadu.
In modern times, there are now less than twenty-five thousand mansions remaining. Most have been demolished, and the luxurious elements that made these almost-palaces gleam with grandeur have been sold.
The finances obtained from such demolishings have been repurposed for the maintenance of the remaining palaces, and the rest have been used to keep the towns’ economies flowing.
Now that we have an idea of the rise and fall of the Chettiars. Let’s take a closer look at why the Chettinad Mansions in Tamil Nadu are still considered modern architectural marvels.
The Chettiars bolstered their homes with large, carved wooden doors. The doors were made from the finest teak and were fitted with complex locking mechanisms that would keep the homes secure from intruders.
Many of the doors were fitted with a complex, nine-step locking mechanism that not only provided security but also added to the strength and durability of the door.
The traditional Chettinad mansions were built around an open courtyard. These courtyards were surrounded by rooms on all sides—serving as a gathering place for all members of the family.
These courtyards also doubled as a great source of natural ventilation within each Chettinad mansion. The courtyards are often revered for their beauty and functionality—making them an indispensable piece of the rich history of the ambitious Chettiars.
Guests who visited the Chettiars in the past would have to cross through enormous gates. Once these guests make it through the gate, the next element of the Chettinad mansion that they encounter is the verandah or Thinnai.
This mixture is then moulded and sculpted into delicate yet intricate designs that are inspired by traditional Indian motifs like floral patterns, mythological figures, geometric patterns, etc. Stucco work was often used to decorate the ceilings and walls of these splendid mansions.
The Stucco work that has stood the test of time serves as a reminder of the thought and craftsmanship that went into building each unique Chettinad mansion across the region. The intricacy of the craftsmanship has preserved traditional building techniques and the cultural heritage of Chettinad.
The Nattukotai Chettiars and their immense wealth have left an undying mark on the history of Tamil Nadu. Their legacy is forever preserved in the walls and courtyards of the Chettinadu Mansion that survive in the absence of their guiding hand.
At MemoryTrain, we believe in preserving these memories and educating individuals both near and far about the legacy of the Chettinad Mansions. That is why we have created valuable conversation pieces that tell the tale of these merchants of old and recite their names for new generations to come.
Visit our website or contact us at MemoryTrain to learn more.
When you are looking for an escape from your daily life and routine—the best location is one that is the embodiment of serenity and peace.
One of the best places to silence your mind and appreciate nature’s timeless beauty is the embracing warmth of Kerala’s backwaters. Kerala’s tropical climate bathes the landscape in warm climates, but the state also experiences high rainfall during its annual monsoon season.
What does this mean? It means that Kerala, lovingly called “God’s Own Country,” is home to many large pockets of calm and still lakes that serve as attractive tourist destinations.
The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest backwater bodies in India. Sprawling across the districts of Alleppey, Kottayam and Ernakulam, these waters cover an impressive radius.
The lake is also the perfect spot for freshwater fishing, house boating, and lethargic boat rides—which is why it is so popular among tourists from all over the globe.
What makes these backwaters so majestic is not just the stillness and calm—it is also the rich cultural tapestry that is weaved around the lake, seeping gracefully into the local stories and traditions of the surrounding villages.
Teeming with aquatic flora and fauna, the lake is also famous for its countless fishing spots—where you can witness traditional fishing techniques in action. The cuisine around the lake is famous for its inherent seafood varieties, which are prepared from the freshest fish in Kerala.
One of the more popular backwaters of Kerala, Kuttanad, is one of the most peaceful backwaters in Kottayam.
The terrain of Kuttanad is sprawled with shimmering waterways that include rivers, lakes, canals and creeks—surrounded by the towering canopies of tropical fauna. The scenery of Kuttanad is majestic and quiet, contributing to its allure as an escape from the stress of daily life.
Kumarakom is a small peninsula that feeds into the Vembanad Lake, which is a mainstay for the surrounding locals. Covered in palm trees and natural vegetation, Kerala backwaters Kumarakom is a timeless biome that holds the secrets to Kottayam’s large biodiversity.
The lagoons and canals of Kumarakom are filled with countless rafts and canoes that shuttle back and forth between the narrow shorelines—some are ferries for curious travellers, while others haul in fresh fish that make up a large portion of the cuisine in the area.
Cherai is a unique aspect of Kerala’s lush landscape. This destination blends the aesthetic of the laid-back beach with the stillness and calm of Kerala’s unique backwaters.
Cherai is the perfect place to fish for rare delicacies like lobster and crab—which are abundant in the area. If you are looking to lounge on the beach during the day and row across the palm-fringed backwaters at sunrise or sunset—Cherai is where you need to be.
The backwaters are a testament to Kerala’s scenic beauty. To explore it fully, there are plenty of activities to do in and around the still waters. The most popular activities are as follows:
The backwaters of Kerala are teeming with aquatic life. Many of the locals live off the backwaters, fishing and selling their catches to make a living. Tourists visiting villages on the backwaters have a unique opportunity to taste and sample some of the finest and freshest local cuisines, prepared with fresh fish straight out of nearby fishing holes.
Take a trip back in time on the backwaters with a lazy canoe ride. There are many small canals and waterways within the expansive backwaters of Kerala. You can hire a traditional canoe to take you around on the backwaters as the breezes roll in as the sun sets on the horizon—that will be a picturesque moment that you will cherish forever.
Another great way to experience the ambience and serenity of the backwaters is atop the lofty comfort of Kerala’s majestic houseboats.
You can ride atop Kerala’s backwaters in these large houseboats that are fully equipped with bedrooms, bathrooms and on-call chefs and staff. Enjoy the warm glow of Kerala’s sunsets in the lap of luxury—that’s what these houseboats are all about.
Check out our online collection of houseboat-inspired memorabilia, such as the miniature Kerala houseboat or the Kerala houseboat ceramic mug.
The backwaters of Kerala wouldn’t be complete without the vibrant atmosphere of the toddy shops. Toddy shops, also known as Shaaps, have always been a mainstay at the shorelines of Kerala’s backwaters.
Offering delicious seafood dishes at reasonable prices, paired with the tangy taste of toddy extracted from fresh coconut trees, the ambience of these shops is a main attraction to any tourist who dreams of attaining the complete backwater experience.
The toddy shop experience exemplifies the best of traditional Keralian food preparation and pastimes without encroaching on modern aesthetics. If you are looking for the authentic food and lakeside conversations-you can find both at any backwater toddy shop.
MemoryTrain is your one-stop-shop for all your backwater souvenirs. So take home our floating shaap as a token of your time spent in Kerala’s enchanting backwaters.
Around the monsoon season, the Kerala backwaters host a series of celebratory boat races.
A large number of spectators gather around to watch Kerala’s signature snake boats go head to head in fast-paced competitions. Old boat songs echo from the snake boats as they keep rhythm to row to the finish line.
These snake boats, also known as “Chundan Vallam,” can be up to 100 feet long. Throughout the year, Kerala holds many distinct and energetic boat races and festivals. The most notable boat races are as follows:
To commemorate these staples of Kerala tradition, we have included a collectible known as the Snake Boat Race - Resin Bookend. Show off your love for Kerala culture with this conversation piece.
Being an inherent aspect of the state’s sprawling landscape and culture, the Kerala backwaters are featured earnestly at the forefront of many festivals. Water is an essential element that forms part of the rituals and traditions of festivals like:
You can read more about the Famous Festivals of Kerala on our website to learn more!
The Winter season (Sept to Feb) is considered one of the best times to visit the backwaters of Kerala. The climate in Kerala is ideal during this time—making it the perfect backdrop for scenic views.
The Summer season (Mar to May) is humid and hot in Kerala—with an occasional rain that does little to quench the heat. It is not ideal to visit Kerala during this period. If you are visiting the backwaters during the summer, we recommend you rent out an AC houseboat so that you can coast through the still waters in style.
The Monsoon Season (Jun to Sept) is an aesthetic season in the tropics. The greenery of the state deepens, and the backwaters overflow with fresh water, making it the perfect waterscape for cultural entertainment, such as the snake boat races.
Kerala backwaters are sprawling with countless stories of serenity and tradition. The warm glow of the sun shimmers across the surface of the freshwater lakes in Kerala, leaving you with cosy and scenic memories that will last a lifetime.
At MemoryTrain, we commemorate the timeless serenity of the Kerala Backwaters. Our expanding collection has a variety of conversation pieces that will serve as everlasting tokens for your memories in “God’s Own Country.”
If you are looking to commemorate your time in Kerala—find your perfect souvenir in our online collection. Shop now or contact us to know more.
We have all heard of amazing fantasy scenes in the pages of famous novels. However, what if those fantasies become a reality?—that is Marottichal. Marottichal Village is a village just outside the town of Thrissur in Kerala.
With beautiful overgrown moss groves and ancient trees lining the village, placed within the embrace of multiple decadent waterfalls—Marottichal is a haven that enchants all who walk willingly into it.
The forests around Marottichal are also occupied by mesmerising wildlife, flora, and fauna that will leave visitors awestruck. That is why Marottichal is considered an amazing trekking destination in Kerala.
That’s not all it’s known for. Marottichal is famous for another surprising reason—Chess. Marottichal is known as India’s Chess Village. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the aesthetics of this quaint little village and explore its rich legacy in the realm of Chess.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Marottichal was a secluded village in the Thrissur district. The village faced a lot of systemic issues that crippled its economy, causing families and residents to face endless struggles.
During those years, the village was plagued by rampant alcohol and gambling addiction. Both of these issues would result in a negative communal impact in many ways. With the rise of crime and domestic violence—it was high time for a change.
As the village was struggling to gain a footing towards a peaceful existence, one man had a vision to change the image of this quaint village. A tea master named C. Unnikrishnan wanted to start a wave to help his fellow villagers overcome the demons and hardships associated with gambling and alcohol addiction—that’s where Chess comes in.
Let’s take a closer look at how Chess changed Marottichal's fate.
C.Unnikrishnan was adamant about introducing an activity that could change his villagers’ mindsets, and he succeeded in finding an avenue through Chess. He dedicated his time to transforming his village’s addiction to alcohol and gambling into a recreational addiction to this timeless game.
Today, almost 90% of the village is composed of expert chess players with a deep passion for the game. C. Unnikrishnan personally dedicated his time and resources to teaching 700+ people how to play Chess. This is why Marottichal is known as the “Chess Village of India”.
The cascading impact of his efforts resonated through the village, sparking lifelong curiosity in citizens who once strayed far away from the light of communal living. Reformed alcoholics and gamblers alike attribute their change and growth to Unnikrishnan and his dedication to the game.
Due to their strong love and passion for the game of chess, the village arranged a chess spectacle for 1000 people to play the game. This event is the reason why Marottichal has won the URF Asian awards for the most people playing Chess simultaneously.
Being known for high-brow chess activity, this quaint Chess Village has become a hub of international activity.
Tourists and neighbouring villages alike have found the hamlet of Marottichal a haven of novel and respectable competition. People flock from near and far to put their skills to the test against the chess maestros of Marottichal. In fact, the village has gotten recognition from Viswanathan Anand—the Chess Grandmaster himself!
At MemoryTrain, we celebrate the heritage and rich legacy of Kerala culture. That is why we have created an authentic chess set composed of unique pieces that act as an ode to ancient Keralian heritage.
We have created two unique chess sets known as the Kerala Chess set (Heritage edition) and a smaller Travel Edition. The significance of these sets is two-fold: they honour the history of Kerala and act as a homage to the efforts of C. Unnikrishnan in building up Marottichal.
If you are someone who enjoys the cultural heritage of Kerala and respects the noble standing of the renowned Chess Village in India, take a trip to our online gift shop. Handcrafted with nobility at its core, our Chess sets go beyond the game of Chess to spark conversations that are rich in culture.
Steep your chess games in a bit of culture and revelry with MemoryTrain. Visit our website to know more.
This couples day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the older couples in our lives. This could be your lovely neighbours, your aunts and uncles, your own parents, other friends of your family, or your own better half.
Your long time together has fashioned them into a pair of infinite pearls of wisdom, and their guidance has given you plenty of useful bits of advice over the years.
Take penguins, for example; many species of penguins share their love for one another by collecting and exchanging pebbles. Let’s take a closer look at the significance of this exchange.
In this story, we can see how important the exchange of pebbles is for courtship and bonding. As humans, we might not share the same love for pebbles, but we do care a lot about building valuable memories and showing appreciation through gifts.
As a couple, it is important to always appreciate your partner with tokens of affection. A memorable gift—and that’s where we step in with MemoryTrain!
So give back to the older couples in your life with MemoryTrain. Our online collection of eclectic gifts is designed to tell endless stories. Go through our collection until you find one that signifies the connection between you and your loved ones.
Our collection of gifts for older couples includes mugs, sculptures, figurines, and more that are designed to tell great stories about Indian culture, heritage, and history. Infused with your own memories of your loved ones, each gift is worth countless words of gratitude, affection and care.
If you are wondering where you can find perfect, memorable gifts for older couples in your life—we've got your back.
Contact us or visit our online shop today!
Kartick began his journey by aiming to end the ancient Indian tradition of dancing bears, which has existed for over 400 years. Wildlife SOS scavenged across India to locate and liberate bears that had suffered under the hands of those who would exploit them for entertainment.
That’s not all. Kartick and his team have since rescued elephants in cruel captivity. They have also made conscientious efforts to rescue and protect leopards, tigers, reptiles, and other animals.
Let’s take a look at some of Kartick’s success stories.
400 years ago, the courts of the Mughal emperors would bring out bears to dance for their wealthy guests as entertainment.
These tortured animals, known as the Dancing Bears, lived at the end of a 4-foot rope dancing to the tune of traditional drums enduring constant pain and punishment. Most of these bears were separated from their mothers at birth and were tortured by poachers and bear trainers.
400 years since the fall of the Mughal Empire, the tradition of the dancing bears has been continued by a nomadic Indian tribe known as the Kalandars. These tortured bears are now littered across various street corners in India, performing for tourists and passersby.
As cubs, their mothers are brutally murdered by poachers who cart away the cubs for sale to members of the Kalandar tribe. Once a Kalandar tribesman obtains a bear, their faces are mutilated to pass a rope through their snout.
Their teeth are mercilessly knocked out to render these bears harmless and malleable. They are then deprived of their chances at freedom and paraded around as cheap entertainment.
By chance, Kartick Satyanarayan witnessed dancing bears being paraded around by Kalandars to perform for tourists. The visual of these scared animals, the trauma in their eyes, and the atrocious conditions of the bears motivated Kartick to take action.
In 1995, Kartick and Geeta Seshamani co-founded the not-for-profit organisation WildlifeSOS. The first item on their list was the eradication of dancing bears.
Releasing these bears back into the wild was out of the question. What they could provide the bears was a sanctuary where they could live out the rest of their days. Having been plucked from their mothers as cubs, these bears are in need of constant care and attention.
Over the span of about two decades, Kartick and his team tackled this issue on many fronts.
Kartick and his team spent a lot of time creating an extensive network of informers who would locate and inform about dancing bear sightings. Kartick and his team would pinpoint the location and focus on the rescue and relocation of these bears into their sanctuary.
Kartick and his team have rescued more than 1200 bears. The last dancing bear was rescued in December of 2009. His dedication was vital to rendering India free of the practice of dancing bears.
Once the bears are rescued, their ropes are removed, and they are tended to with ultimate care by trained veterinarians. Many of these bears came in malnourished and with many health issues. They have since been rehabilitated and allowed to roam freely within the sanctuary.
The battle doesn’t stop with simple rescue and rehabilitation. The Kalandar tribe treated the dancing bears as their sole source of income. They needed guidance to change their ways.
Kartick and his team dedicated time and effort to training the Kalandars in other vocations. Many Kalandars were convinced to become informants.
They were also educated to pursue other career paths. The women were empowered to take up alternative vocations. Not only that, Wildlife SOS made efforts to educate Kalandar children in wildlife conservation and other academics.
By allowing the Kalandars to gradually opt into the program, they became protectors of the very wildlife they once tamed with fear.
Today, many Kalandars work as informants and wildlife rescue workers. Others have taken up vocations like farming, transport, goods trading, small-time entrepreneurship, etc.
With the Kalandars working together with Wildlife SOS, Kartick has been successful in permanently ending the plight of the dancing bears.
In India, plenty of elephants are still held in captivity or illegally by poachers and cruel masters who work these gentle creatures to the point of exhaustion and death. They are either traded or trained to obey human commands.
These elephants are forced to trek back and forth or perform unnatural tricks under heinous conditions without proper care or nutrition. To domesticate the wild elephant, it is often kept in a cramped cage without food or water for days at a time.
Once the elephant’s spirit is broken, it obeys commands without protest out of fear and trauma. These domesticated elephants are prone to:
Champa was a roadside elephant that provided rides to paying customers. Kartick and Geeta repeatedly encountered Champa on the roadside while searching for dancing bears. They would stop to give Champa treats, but with time, they realized her dire condition.
Champa’s body was battered and bruised, and her owner refused to accept medical care. Champa’s condition eventually worsened, and her owner handed Champa over to WildlifeSOS. The group called on multiple vets to help Champa regain her feet.
Because of Champa, the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) was established in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The ECCC tended to Champa’s health and well-being. Champa’s rescue sparked a search for elephants across India that were victims of inhumane circumstances.
Champa was the first elephant that WildlifeSOS rescued. Other elephants with equally tragic stories have since joined Champa at the ECCC. Here are some of the brief stories of elephants who have found the same refuge:
Bhola
Bhola was a victim of a treacherous accident that occurred in Noida. He was found unconscious with broken bones and horrendous bruises. With a steady hand from WildlifeSOS, Bhola survived. He was the second Elephant to enter the ECCC.
Suzy
Suzy was a part of the circus for over 65 years. She was forced to do unnatural tricks and discarded when her mistreatment left her on the verge of death. She was rescued by WildlifeSOS in 2015, and she is one of the oldest residents at the ECCC, now a little over 73 years old.
Raju
Raju’s captors had stolen as a young calf. Raju endured 50 years of torture from multiple owners. His body was covered in scars, bruises and open wounds. He was bound in spiked chains that dug into his legs, causing suffering 24/7. He was malnourished and wounded at the time of his rescue. In the care of WildlifeSOS, Raju plays joyfully in the water and mud, living out his remaining days.
Kartick’s journey is filled with the unspoken gratitude of thousands of animals. Having fallen prey to the hands of cruel fate, these animals have since become a mainstay in Kartick’s life with WildlifeSOS.
Their stories are an indication of how far society has to advance to be true partners in wildlife conservation. Many of the rescued animals are endangered. As a people, we have to step up and fight to preserve our wildlife for future generations.
Kartick and his team at WildlifeSOS repeatedly teach us that a little compassion can go a long way. With the right level of dedication, anyone can move mountains.
At MemoryTrain, we are firm believers in the power and magic of nature. Every beautiful creature that exists in our world should be cared for and protected in order to avoid extinction.
That is why we have dedicated ourselves to creating a growing collection of wildlife memorabilia that are created from high quality materials. Our collection of mugs and sculptures are a budding set that is continuously expanding.
With time, we intend to spread awareness about wildlife conservation to assist Kartick and his warriors at WildlifeSOS in their fight.
Our specially crafted mug, known as "Tusker Tale" is an ode to Kerala’s state animal—the elephant. It also pays homage to Kartick and WildlifeSOS for all their dedication and hardwork to preserving the lives of tortured elephants.
We also have beautiful sculptures like the “Hornbill Couple” and the “Malabar Giant Squirrel” that serve as excellent starters for intelligent discussions about wildlife conservation. Join us in commemorating the magnitude of our planet and its wildlife.
Make memories that transform thought with MemoryTrain. Contact us to know more.
Theyyam is a Hindu ritual that is practised commonly in northern Kerala and parts of Karnataka. This ritual is also known as Kaliyattam or Thira. The ritual consists of certain traditions and customs that are associated with specific temples and sacred groves of the Malabar region.
To the inhabitants of northern Kerala, Theyyam is considered a channel of communication that connects the people directly to the gods from whom they seek blessings. Theyyam in Kerala is celebrated by the Northern Malabar region, which consists of
Theyyam starts in Thulam. Thulam is a month on the Malayalam calendar that usually falls during October. Theyyam starts on the tenth day of Thulam and can last up to seven months till the middle of Edavam—which typically falls between late May and early June. The final Kaliyattam of the Theyyam season is usually performed at Madai Kavu and Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Temple, both of which are Kolathiri royal family shrines.
The Keralolpathi goes into detail about the inception and early history of Kerala. Lord Vishnu’s sixth incarnation, known as Parasurama, was the entity that recovered a large landmass from the depths of the ocean. This landmass became known as Kerala. Once Kerala was created, Parasurama sanctioned a variety of dance forms like Puravela, Kaliyattam, Daivattom, and Theyyattam for the devotees of the North Malabar region.
It is believed that Theyyam evolved from earlier forms of Kaliyattam. Parasurama blessed the indigenous tribes like Malayar, Pana, Velan and Vannan tribes with the responsibility of carrying out the Theyyam dance. This ensured that these marginalised tribes were seen and heard at religious gatherings due to their significance to this ancient ritual.
The Nambiars and Thiyyas (Ezhava) were charged with the patronage of Theyyam. At one point in time, every Tharavadu had their own Theyyam festivals during auspicious moments during the year. Offering patronage for the dances was the only action permitted by Parasurama’s decree on members of the higher caste—Nairs were prohibited from performing the Theyyam dance.
Nairs were still required to participate in the ritual as spectators, honouring the deities as they took form within the tribal artists who performed the dances and rituals. In a way, the Theyyam dance offered solace to people from all walks of life as an equaliser that transcended the limitations imposed by caste and creed.
In total, there are around 456 different forms of Theyyam. Each type has its own variations and themes. Depending on story and tradition, both men and women can take up forms of Theyyam; many Theyyam forms celebrate Shiva, but others also include deities like Vishnu, Yama, the Goddess Shakti, and more.
The Key forms of Theyyam that have the greatest significance are:
Theyyam dances seldom take place on a stage. That is not the purpose of the art form. The intent of the ritual is to pay respects to specific deities while passing down their stories to the next generation. It is oral storytelling steeped in ancient traditions that precedes much of known Indian history.
Usually, Theyyam dances take place around the village shrine. Devotees of all castes and creeds gather around the artists and serve as spectators to rituals that can last anywhere between 12 to 24 hours.
As trained drummers find their rhythm in traditional drums, the Theyyam dancer will recite a unique ritual song. The song is crafted to eloquently talk about the myths and legends of the deity that is enshrined in the village. As the ritual goes on, other folk instruments will join in to complement ritual harmony.
Due to the long duration of the Theyyam ritual, short intervals are placed between various acts of the story. After a short interval, the Theyyam dancer will appear, covered in traditional Theyyam makeup that consists of specialised patterns like kozhipushpam, vairadelam, kattaram, kotumpurikam and prakkezhuthu.
The dancer will approach the shrine in their new makeup. Ritual music begins to play, and the positive energy offered by the performers passes through the Theyyam dancer. The artist will then slowly transform into the village deity. This will prompt them into highly energetic and ritualistic dance. The dancer will make his way around the shrine multiple times, acting as the avatar of the shrine deity.
Theyyam is meant to connote a human vessel for ‘Deivam,’ meaning God. It is believed that during the performance of the ritual, God enters the body of the performer. That is why, during Theyyam, the performers are considered visible manifestations of the deity and their blessings. The Theyyam dance begins as soon as God enters the performer. The performance continues until the performer comes out of their trance.
Theyyam starts with an invocation known as thottam. As per tradition, it is believed that after thottam has been invoked, the performer will gradually transition into the respective shrine deity and dance with vigour to the beat of folk instruments like perumbara, kuzhal, chenda, ilathalam, veekni and chermangalam.
The art form of Theyyam is an illustrious part of the Keralian legacy. A major aspect of Theyyam artistry is the elaborate folk painting done on the face and body of the performer. Typically, the colour of the face paint is orange with red accents to make it stand out at night. Let’s take a closer look at the aspects of Theyyam's artistry:
Ritualistic invocation: Before the performance can start, another ritual needs to take place. Handled with extreme care and artistry, the performer undergoes a purification ceremony that seeks to bestow blessings upon the performer. This ceremony is also crucial to putting the performer in the right state of mind to channel the gods.
Characters: Palanthai Kannan, Kuruvat Kurup, Lord Vishnu
The story of Vishnumoorthi Theyyam is closely associated with the town of Nileshwar. The story follows a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, named Palanthai Kannan. As a boy, he grew up in Nileshwar. One day, he picked mangoes from a tree belonging to Kuruvat Kurup, a member of a higher caste.
As punishment for his acts, Kuruvat Kurup had Palanthai Kannan harshly beaten by his guards. This prompted Palanthai Kannan to leave his hometown. He fled his village and sought refuge in a Vishnu temple in Mangalore, where he resided for 12 long years.
Eventually, Lord Vishnu urged Palanthai Kannan to head back in search of his hometown of Nileshwar. The devotee made his way back home. Once he reached Nileshwar, Palanthai Kannan bathed in a pond reserved for the upper caste. Kuruvat Kurup and his followers were enraged when they heard the news. They assaulted Palanthai Kanna, and the attack led to his untimely death.
Enraged by Kuruvat Kurup’s actions, Lord Vishnu brought down disasters in the area surrounding the Kuruvat Tharavad. Kuruvat Kurup was frightened and consulted an astrologer for answers. The astrologer recognised the presence of Lord Vishnu and instructed Kurup and his family members to build a shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. From that moment on, he became known as Vishnumoorthi, and the deity is said to reside at Vaikundeswara Temple in Nileshwar.
Theyyam takes place in many temples across Northern Kerala. This string of temples, known as the ‘Theyyam Belt.’ stretches from Kasargod to Vadagara. Theyyams do not have a fixed location. They move from place to place. According to local beliefs, the smaller shrines follow traditions much closer than those under Brahmanical patronage.
Theyyams are also a mainstay in many traditional Kerala homes. They can take place during auspicious occasions on any open stage. For tourists looking to maximise their Theyyam experience, here are a few key locations where you can immerse yourself in the art form.
Plenty of auspicious Theyyam rituals take place at this location. The theyyams performed here include Wayanattu Kulavan (Thondayyan), Vishnumoorthi Theyyam, Vallar Kulangara Bhagavathy, and Sree Bhootham. Theyyam rituals take place at this temple around early December.
This temple is located in a sacred grove that has its own unique customs and rituals. This holy place is maintained in a conventional style. The theyyams performed here include Kannikkorumakan, Kuttisasthan, Bhairavan, Raktha Chamundi, Angakulangara Bhagavathy, Madayil Chamundi, and Vishnumoorthy. Theyyams take place here in early December as well.
This holy ground is the home of Guliyanka Bhagavathy, who is a prominent deity of this family. The theyyams performed here include Guliyanka Bhagavathy, Vishnumoorthy, Chamundi, Bali, Kundoor, and Kurathi.
Theyyam dances are a matter of pride for the people of Kerala. With a rich legacy and countless influential stories, the practice of Theyyam has had a profound impact on Kerala culture and tradition.
At MemoryTrain, we commemorate age-old Keralian traditions. In order to spread awareness and protect the stories of the state, we offer various handcrafted memorabilia that are great conversation starters. Our Kerala collection offers tokens of deep connection to the state in the forms of mugs, ornate chess boards, figurines, sculptures, and more.
If you have a story to tell about your time in Kerala, you can find the right vessel for those stories in our online gift shop.
What are you waiting for? Contact us at MemoryTrain or explore our online store to learn more!
Kerala is a state of a thousand stories. Fondly known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala has managed to merge age-old traditions with modern tourism. The state’s main attractions have always been its vibrant and immersive cultural festivals.
The festivals of Kerala bring together people from across the state in marvellous celebrations steeped in decadent cultural attire, traditional food, entertainment, and dance. However, not all of these festivals are celebrated all over the state.
Certain festivals are true to certain parts of Kerala, and each region has a different take and their own regional twist to their traditional pathway. That is why, when you come to Kerala, you have to visit every region to truly experience the depth and vibrancy of each Keralian festival.
Onam is a time of great celebration in Kerala. Communities come together to exchange cultural ideas through extravagant traditional meals and festivities as they honour the legend of King Mahabali.
It is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Chingam—which falls around August and September every year. It is marked as the beginning of the Malayalam calendar. Let’s look at why it is celebrated and its significance below. Ask any Keralite about Onam—and they will have a thousand memories to share.
Onam is a core part of Keralian traditions and folklore. The legend of Onam begins with the reign of King Mahabali, a benevolent ruler. The gods were not satiated by his benevolence and requested Lord Vishnu to intervene.
Lord Vishnu approached King Mahabali in his Vamana Avatar and asked Mahabali to grant him land equal to three of his steps. He then grew in size and covered the entire universe in 2 steps. Realising Lord Vishnu’s identity, Mahabali offered up his head for the final step.
Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu sent Mahabali to Pathala (netherworld), where he was allowed to live in peace. He was also granted permission to visit Kerala once a year to see his devoted subjects
At MemoryTrain, our iconic Mahabali resin sculpture showcases a playful harmony between the legendary King Mahabali and Vamana, the 5th avatar of Vishnu. With an epic motorbike packed with Onam essentials, this piece vividly captures the festival's spirit.
Each of the 10 days of Onam has a separate significance. The first day of the festival is Atham. Atham is followed by Chithira, Chodi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketta, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom and Thiruvonam.
On the days leading up to Thiruvonam, the people prepare for the coming of King Mahabali. They decorate their homes with lamps that burn brightly, waiting for the king’s arrival. Each family designs and decorates a vibrant Pookalam (Flower rangoli) outside their entrances to please King Mahabali as he passes through each town.
The Onam Pookalam consists of elaborate flower patterns in front of homes and workplaces. Chalk designs are drawn onto the floor, and different flowers are shredded and placed within the designs to come up with glorious and festive floral arrangements.
Communities often bond by organising various games and activities that are conducted in and around Thiruvonam. There are traditional Chenda Kottu (Music ensembles with traditional musicians), Thiruvathira dances, and Puli Kali (a folk dance involving people dressed as tigers and hunters). MemoryTrain has created resin figurines that honour all three of these aspects of Onam, and they are available in our online store—go check them out!
The festivities don’t end there! As Thiruvonam approaches, the people of Kerala are enthralled by snake boat racing competitions. Each district of Kerala is represented by distinct, decorated snake boats that are filled to the brim with expert rowers who all compete for glory and pride.
You can see the spirit of this competition immortalised in our Snake Boat Race Resin Bookends, which are now available in our online store.
Thiruvonam is the main day of the festive Onam season. It is followed by Moonam Onam (third Onam) and Naalam Onam (fourth Onam), which is marked as the last day of Onam. During Thiruvonam the people of Kerala dress up in traditional Onam attire and celebrate the occasion with a decadent feast known as the Onam Sadhya.
The Onam Sadhya takes place on Thiruvonam and consists of rice served on a banana leaf surrounded by 26 distinct sides that celebrate Kerala’s culinary heritage. Families gather together and serve one another this decadent feast, going over nostalgic Onam memories while making new ones that will last a lifetime.
Visit our online store for more Onam Collections
Thrissur Pooram is a festival for the senses. Also known as “Poorangalude Pooram”, this festival embraces vibrant community gatherings with large displays of musical prowess, majestically decorated elephants, tremendous fireworks displays, and religious processions.
Initiated by Shakthan Thampuran in 1978, the festival quickly became a spectacle with no equal. The festival is a mainstay in the city of Thrissur at the Vadakkunnathan Temple. Shakthan Thampuran designated 10 temples in Thrissur to form the major part of the festivities, and they are divided into the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu sides, each composed of 5 temples.
Thrissur Pooram follows a sequence of events that lasts across 7 days every year. Each event has a special significance involved:
Vishu falls on the Mesha Sankranti and is considered a family festival. Devotees dedicate the day of Vishu to worshipping both Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. The most important aspects of celebrating Vishu are Vishu Kani, Vishu Kaineettam and Vishubhalam.
Many mythological tales revolve around the day of Vishu.
As per tradition, on the night before Vishu, the eldest lady of the house prepares the prayer room with Lord Krishna’s idol. A metal lamp, known as the “Nilavilakku,” is lit next to the idol and accompanied by a vessel known as “Uruli”. The Uruli will be filled with omens of good fortune and prosperity, such as betel leaves, coconut raw rice, lemon, a holy book, jackfruit, a metallic mirror, cotton dhoti, coins or currency notes, and other totems.
On the day of Vishu, all the members of the family wake up by dawn with their eyes closed and go to the worship area of the house. The first sight of the Vishu Kani should be the image of the idol in the prayer room because it is believed to bring them good luck throughout the year. That’s why Vishu Kani is arranged with care and precision to create a positive picture.
After viewing their Vishu Kani, devotees recite verses from the Ramayana. It is believed that whatever page of the Ramayana is opened first by the devotee has great significance in their life for the coming year.
After the prayers are done, adults and children gather together to burst firecrackers from dawn to dusk. This is called “Vishu Padakkam,” and it is an important aspect of Vishu celebrations that is fun for the whole family. The final aspect of the day’s festivities is the traditional feast known as the “Vishu Sadhya.”
Theyyam is a traditional ritual that invokes the presence of the gods among their followers. The art of Theyyam is known to act as a bridge between the Gods and their devotees.
A document known as Keralolpathi talks about the rich mythology and history of Kerala’s inception. Parasurama, Lord Vishnu's sixth incarnation, was the one who recovered the land of Kerala from the depths of the sea. He sanctioned many festivals like Kaliyattam, Puravela, Daivattom, and Theyyattam for the devotees of the North Malabar region.
Theyyam is believed to have originated from Kaliyattam. The responsibility of performing the sacred Theyyam dance was handed over to indigenous tribal communities like the Malayar, Pana, Velan and Vannan tribes.
The patronage of Theyyam was placed into the hands of the Nambiars and the Thiyyas (Ezhava). Commonly, every Tharavadu had their own Theyyam festivals. Despite having patronage, Nairs were prohibited from performing the Theyyam dance.
Only the tribal communities were allowed to participate in the Theyyam rituals. The upper-caste devotees were required to participate in the Theyyam dance as spectators honouring the deities as they appear within the tribal artists who perform the dances and rituals.
The ritualistic performances involved in Theyyam do not take place on any stage. They are performed in front of the village shrine, which functions like an open theatre. Devotees gather around the artists and watch as the rituals take place for periods that can last between 12 to 24 hours.
The Theyyam dancer recites a specific ritual song alongside the rhythm of trained drummers. The song describes the myths and legends of the deity enshrined in the village. Other folk musical instruments also join in the ritual as it goes on.
After a short interval, the Theyya dancer appears in full traditional makeup that consists of specified patterns like vairadelam, kozhipushpam, kattaram, prakkezhuthu and kotumpurikam. Adorned in their specified makeup stylisation, the dancer appears once more in front of the shrine.
As ritualistic music plays, they slowly transform into the deity of the shrine. The dancer energetically moves through the determined steps of ritualistic dance as he makes his way across the courtyard and around the shrine multiple times.
You can read more about the Theyyam rituals on our website.
Kerala is known for its grand tradition of extravagant and competitive boat races. A large number of spectators gather around to watch Kerala’s signature snake boats go head to head in fast-paced competitions. Old boat songs echo from the snake boats as they keep rhythm to row to the finish line.
These snake boats, also known as “Chundan Vallam,” can be up to 100 feet long. Throughout the year, Kerala holds many distinct and energetic boat races and festivals. The most notable boat races are as follows:
Kerala is a land of many festivals. They are not just limited to the ones above—here are some of the other festivals that Keralites celebrate:
This takes place during New Year in Kochi. Every year, this festival is conducted by the District Tourism Promotion Council of Ernakulam, which serves as an attractive opportunity for tourists to mingle with the local crowd. At night, a giant bearded model that the people call Papanji is set on fire to bid goodbye to the previous year.
The Navaratri festival is nine days long. The three most important days during the festival are Durgashtami, Mahanavami and Vijayadashami. These days are reserved for worshipping the Goddess Durga.
During these days, devotees place items representing their education and employment within the temple for Ayudha Pooja, a ritual intended to bless their education/employment. On Vijayadashami, children write their first letters, and this is considered a good start to their studies and self-development.
Ramadan is a period of fasting that is honoured by Muslims around the world. It is sacred to the religion. After the fasting, Muslims offer prayers and break their fast on Eid al-Fitr. On this day, they throw large feasts and invite their friends and family to join in. The community gathers to share stories and eat great, hearty meals prepared in mosques and homes to mark the occasion of conquering the Ramadan fast.
Christmas is a global phenomenon. Initially, it was a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. However, the holiday has since evolved to include both Christians and non-believers alike.
In Kerala, the festival is celebrated with bright fireworks displays, delicious plum cakes, and groups of excited carolers going door-to-door to sing Christmas carols. Churches all over Kerala organise interesting displays of Jesus’s birthplace, the manger in Bethlehem. We have honoured this moment with our White Nativity Resin Set.
That’s not all. We also have a piece that consists of Santa on a boat in Kerala’s traditional attire delivering gifts. It is an eye-catching conversation piece filled with mystique and brimming with nods to Kerala’s age-old traditions.
Kerala is a state of many diverse beliefs. These beliefs merge together to unite the people in festivities filled with feasts and laughter.
Kerala’s festive spirit, coupled with its serene backwaters and its naturally preserved beauty, make it the perfect place to have a good time on your next trip!
When you head back, take a souvenir of your time from MemoryTrain. All our creations are specifically designed to be conversation pieces of all the marvellous moments you spent traversing God’s Own Country.
Every roadside coffee shop and tea stall in Kochi has a unique story behind it. However, the story of Sri Balaji Coffee House, run by KR Vijayan and Mohana (his wife), is truly one-of-a-kind.
If you are rushing through you might have walked or driven past the small tea stall without realising it. Despite the limited income from their tea stall, the couple used their savings to travel to over 25 countries throughout the years. Vijayan and Mohana are known for their relentless passion for travelling. In fact, their story has become so viral that travel dreamers around the world have dubbed them “The Tea Shop Couple.”
Vijayan and Mohana spend their days serving up delicious tea, coffee, and snacks to passersby from their small tea shop known as Sree Balaji Coffee House. They put their soul into their simple recipes and ensure that each of their customers are satisfied with each visit. That is why this tiny tea shop has so many regular customers.
Sree Balaji Coffee House is not just known for its tea and snacks. Vijayan and Mohana’s travel stories are equally legendary. Their regular customers have made a habit of visiting the tea stall to listen to their experiences.
Vijayan and his wife began their travel log in 2007. While running their tea shop, they realised they had saved enough to travel. With their savings, they decided to make their first trip to Israel. That journey ignited a passion for travelling that they have followed diligently for many years.
The couple were determined to see the world, and they used their annual savings from their humble tea stall to fly around the world and visit countries like Russia, France, Egypt, UAE, the US and more.
Being humble, common folk the couple travels for the sake of new experiences. Even after the age of 70, their stories offer a new angle to the art of world travel. Their experiences are an inspiration for anyone who has ever caught the travel bug.
KR Vijayan and Mohana are resilient spirits. They have faced many hurdles along their paths to see the world. Due to their limited savings they have often had to resort to taking small loans to make their trips possible. They have used travel agents to make the most of their trips in a safe and secure manner. However, the pandemic shut the doors to many countries and put a stop to their travel plans.
That didn’t stop them! As soon as borders opened up again, they made their way to Russia to reboot their world tour.
They overcame many hiccups on their travels across the world. However, the largest hurdle came unexpectedly—the death of KR Vijayan. Vijayan’s death marked the end of an era. After 14 years of exciting travel, Vijayan and his wife had taken their final trip to Russia in October 2021.
On November 19, 2021, Vijayan died of a sudden heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Mohana, and his two daughters, Usha and Sasikala. His name will forever be immortalised for his daringness to dream big.
Paulo Coelho once wrote, “...When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.” Vijayan and Mohana have conspired and colluded with this universe with such dedication that their names are forever immortalised as a testament to perseverance.
Their story is a tale of resilience and a willingness to overcome their limiting circumstances. The couple’s determination was relatable, and that set off a chain of events that allowed Vijayan and Mohana to explore the world with love and support in their coattails.
In 2015, a filmmaker named Hari M Mohanan read a story about the couple in a newspaper. He made a short film based on their lives, and it gained a lot more traction than the couple expected. A few years later, a YouTube influencer picked up their story and retold it on a larger platform, leading to the humble couple gaining a large digital following.
Their story impressed Anand Mahindra, and he started a crowdfund to help the energetic couple conquer more countries on their quest to travel the world. Believe it or not—the donations came pouring in!
Their story is an inspiration for many travel dreamers around the world, and their journey shares the message that you don’t have to be rich to see the world time and time again. Their story makes you believe that anything is possible.
What’s the best way to commemorate the story of the Tea Shop Couple? We could have gone the traditional route and made a teacup that tells their tale—been there, done that!
We, at MemoryTrain, wanted to do something completely different. We thought about the essence of their journey. Their disciplined approach to diligent savings is what fueled their countless trips around the world. Where can you put your money to save it? The answer was simple and wrapped in the perfect amount of nostalgia—a piggy bank!
Every grand dream you have should start with small investments. This piggy bank will remind you to start saving consciously. A savings habit can go a long way to building discipline. That discipline can help you make your dreams come true—just like it happened for the Tea Stall Couple.
Our piggy bank is cast in resin, and it represents the Sree Balaji Coffee House. In front of the tea stall, KR Vijayan is making tea as his wife stands behind him to serve tasty snacks to their customers. The resin statuette is handpainted and displays their dedication to their passion and their daily lives.
The Tea Shop Couple’s love and support of one another has served them well on their global quests. At MemoryTrain, we believe that this adorable souvenir is a great conversation starter that serves a practical purpose.
But how can this piggy bank serve as a timeless token of their legacy?
With every purchase of this piggy bank, a portion of the proceeds go directly to KR Vijayan’s family—a token to honour their sacrifices and perseverance.
Get yourself our limited edition Tea Shop Couple Piggy Bank from MemoryTrain’s online store to start your journey to saving—for your dreams!
Kerala is a state brimming with ancient traditions. Thrissur Pooram is known as being one of the heights of Kerala tradition. The spectacle is also known as “Poorangalude Pooram”, meaning the Festival of Festivals.
The festival unifies the temples around the Vadakkunnathan Temple and puts on a display of praise to Lord Shiva through traditions like Kudamattam, Ilanjithara Melam, and many more.
The festival is famous for its processions that consist of dozens of elephants and hundreds of devoted musicians.
Fun fact: This festival is most well-known for its innovative fireworks displays.
Raja Ram Varma was the Maharaja of Cochin in 1798. He was fondly known by his people as Shakthan Thampuran. That year, heavy rain delayed devotees from Thrissur on their journey to the Arattupuzha Pooram. When they arrived late, they were denied entry, so they approached Shakthan Thampuran to resolve this.
Shakthan Thampuran saw an opportunity to start a new tradition. He decided to unify the 10 temples around the Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur in praise to Lord Vadakkunnathan (Lord Shiva) and invited the temples to bring forth deities in celebration of the festival. This festival would go on to become Thrissur Pooram.
Since its creation, Thrissur Pooram has been a mainstay in Kerala culture. Forming part of centuries of tradition, it is also a celebration of the legacy of the great Shakthan Thampuran.
Shakthan Thampuran divided the participating temples into two groups, known as the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu sides.
The festival officially begins with "Kodiyettam," or flag hoisting, seven days before Thrissur Pooram. This ceremony involves all the participating temples and includes a light fireworks show to mark the commencement of the festivities.
Four days after the flag hoisting, the first round of fireworks, known as "Sample Vedikettu," takes place. This one-hour show features innovative pyrotechnic displays by both the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu sides.
One of the highlights of Thrissur Pooram is the decoration of elephants with "Nettipattam" (golden caparisons), "Chamayam" (elephant accoutrements), and other ornate accessories. These decorations are hand-made every year by the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu temples.
The main Pooram events begin with the "Kanimangalam Sasthavu Ezhunnellippu" procession early in the morning, followed by processions from six other temples. A major event is the "Madathil Varavu" melam, which features over 200 artists playing traditional instruments such as the thimila, madhalam, trumpet, cymbal, and edakka.
Inside the Vadakkunnathan Temple, the "Ilanjithara Melam" starts at 2 PM, featuring a spectacular performance with drums, trumpets, pipes, and cymbals.
A key attraction of Thrissur Pooram is "Kudamattom," where the Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu groups compete by exchanging colourful and intricately crafted umbrellas atop the elephants. This event is a visual spectacle and a crowd favourite.
The main fireworks display, known as "Vedikettu," takes place in the early morning of the seventh day. This grand pyrotechnic show is held in the heart of Thrissur city at Thekkinkadu Maidan and is renowned nationwide. Both Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu compete to present the most impressive fireworks, with winners being declared
the next day.
The festival concludes with the "Pakal Pooram" on the seventh day. The farewell ceremony, known as "Upacharam Cholli Piriyal," involves the idols from the Thiruvambady Sri Krishna Temple and Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple being taken back to their respective temples. The event ends with a final round of fireworks called "Pakal Vedikkettu."
The legends of the Vadakkunnathan Temple suggest it was founded by Parashurama. When Parashurama threw his axe to unveil the land that would become Kerala, he requested Lord Shiva to establish his presence in this new land.
A Shiva Linga was discovered by Parashurama beneath the grove of a banyan tree, and it would later become the centrepiece of the Vadakkunnathan temple. The area around the temple would later become present-day Thrissur.
The temple is the home of Lord Vadakkunnathan (Lord Shiva). During and after the rule of Shakthan Thampuran, the temple has been the site of countless Poorams. The temple is covered in mural paintings depicting scenes from the Mahabharatha and has been declared a national monument.
The Vadakkunnathan Temple is the hub of Thrissur Pooram, and it has been revered for centuries. MemoryTrain has preserved the timeless memory of Thrissur Pooram with a commemorative piece that depicts the iconic Temple Gate of Vadakkunnathan Temple.
Made from high-quality resin, The Temple Gate will serve as a fond reminder of the temple and the festivities of Thrissur Pooram. It is designed to be a conversation piece and can be a great starting point for reliving your memories about age-old traditions and amazing festivities.
We have another product in our MemoryTrain ,that beautifully captures the essence of nature, evoking the serene charm of our beloved Thrissur.
The vibrant village of Malarikkal is an enchanting sight to see. Around August and September, the fields of this quaint little hamlet in the vast district of Kottayam becomes a hub of buzzing tourist activity.
During the peak season, tourist spots in Kottayam are teeming with high levels of exciting tourist activity. The cultural heritage and sparkling landscapes of the bustling Kottayam district are the perfect backdrop for Malarikkal’s large and sprawling fields of mesmerising Water Lilies that attract the eyes of citizens around the world.
Picture the still, clear waters of Kerala’s Lake of Lilies flowing silently, stretching for kilometres. The soft silence is filled with gentle ripples as gorgeous, pink water lilies sprout in the water one by one. Soon, the surface of the Lake is covered with them, like a gently swaying canopy that lives harmoniously on the water’s surface.
As the first tourist footfalls reach the shores of Malarikkal, Kottayam, the Lake of Lilies welcomes them in full bloom. Ripples float across the surface of the still waters as enthusiastic tourists pick their blooming lilies to keep as a vibrant souvenir of the times they spent in Kottayam.
Malarikkal Village is located between Kottayam and Kumarakom. The village is located as a detour on the road that connects Kottayam and Kumarakom. Here is how you can reach it.
Step 1: Travel on the road from Kottayam to Kumarakom till you reach Illikal Junction
Step 2: Turn left at Illikal Junction onto Tiruvaruppu Road and continue till Kanjiram Kavala
Step 3: At Kanjiram Kavala, turn left onto Kanjiram Jetty Road and drive 2.7km till you reach your destination
Step 1: Travel on the road from Kumarakom to Kottayam till you reach Illikal Junction
Step 2: Turn right at Illikal Junction onto Tiruvaruppu Road and continue till Kanjiram Kavala
Step 3: At Kanjiram Kavala, turn left onto Kanjiram Jetty Road and drive 2.7km till you reach your destination
The best time to visit Malarikkal, Kottayam is between the months of August to October when the Lake of the Lilies is in full bloom. The most preferable time to visit Malarikkal is between 6:30 am and 9:30 am. Once time flows beyond 9:30 am, the petals of the flowers start to close and the magic fades away.
The surface of the Lake shimmers with sprinkles of sunlight at dawn. That is why sunrise is the perfect time to lay your eyes on the surface of the Lake when it's covered in glowing Lilies as far as the eye can see, it becomes one of the most attractive and breathtaking tourist spots in Kottayam.
The lake of lilies is not just a viewing spectacle. If you want to get a closer look at the serenity that washes over with the breeze, you can hop on a boat ride and head onto the water.
There will be plenty of boatmen with rowboats. The price of one “boat safari” is about Rs. 100 - 150. You can request them to take you on the lake to enjoy the calm stillness that floats atop the quiet lake—you can even ask them to pluck a lilly or two to take home as a souvenir.
The blooming lilies signify the end of the rainy season and usher in a new era of tranquil sunlight. The bustling tourists bring in a lot of income for the community of Malarikkal as they pass through the village, allowing families and businesses in the area to thrive and grow into a more prominent tourist spot in Kottayam.
The vibrant water lilies blooming in Kottayam help maintain the delicate ecosystem of Malarikkal. These lilies provide shade from pollution and are home to plenty of aquatic life in and around the Malarikkal area.
The surrounding community sees the blossoming of the water lilies as an auspicious sign of prosperity. The people of Malarikkal come together to nourish and care for the blooming lilies to ensure that their beautiful Lake is sprawling with vibrant, pink water lilies from end to end. The Lake of Lilies is a natural blessing that the natives consider a blessing to their lives and livelihoods.
MemoryTrain has always seen the Lake of Lilies as a hallmark of beauty and tranquillity. We have immortalised the Lake in resin to create a beautiful commemorative piece that can bring the serene beauty of Malarikkal, Kottayam, into your home.
The piece is intricate and tells the story of Malarikkal with silent artistry. The piece displays the edge of a boat silently wading through the Lake as lilies part as ripples form on the surface to allow the rowboat to pass through. This piece serves as a true homage to the purity and beauty of the hidden gem that is Malarikkal, Kottayam.
A Kuttukaran Group Venture
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