Author Archives: Richard

There is an exotic Hindu ritual in northern Kerala called theyyam. It’s thought to have origins predating Hinduism, which originated about 3500 years ago. It’s part music, part community and cultural celebration, part costumed ecstatic dance, and part prayer. Traditionally, … Continue reading →

I left Kannur and went south to Ernakulam/Cochi. Cochi is what most people will recognize, as it’s the tourist destination across the bay from the real city of Ernaculam. I was bushed after the crowded third class train ride, and … Continue reading →

I’ve been in the forests of Kerala’s western mountains. I’ve got fast internet connection again, so here are some pictures. The first is actually from a bird sanctary near Mysore, Karnataka. It’s a 3 meter crocodile. Sorry. I’ll never be … Continue reading →

Saddam Hussein was hanged between when I took my early morning jeep “safari” into the Wayanad Wildlife Refuge near Thonpetty and my return in the late afternoon for another. This was erected in front of the entrance. Under the black … Continue reading →

   For the last couple of days, I’ve had very fast internet connections, so here are are a bunch of pictures. I was thinking, perhaps you’d like to see more everyday stuff. So here it is. First, here’s a working class neighborhood … Continue reading →

Usually the maharajah’s palace night lights are turned on on Sundays. On Christmas, it is lit up with 97,000 light bulbs. He is the palace on Christmas Eve and on Christmas. Crowds gathered to look before fanning out to the … Continue reading →

Yesterday evening was like most others. After a day of sightseeing, I laid on the bed with a pillow rolled up under my head, reading until I lost focus on the story. As per usual when that happens, I went … Continue reading →

I was wondering how going back on the road would be. It’s turning out fine. After about 2 1/2 weeks of braindead beachcombing, it feels good to get some new stimulation. I just need to say this. Many times I’ve … Continue reading →

By this place’s standards, it’s high season here. The huts all fill up and at least a couple dozen newcomers a night sleep out on the beach or in unoccupied hammocks at one of the shacks. I was fully expecting … Continue reading →

I get up earlier than most here. If I want a chai before 8, I have to walk up the beach to find a place with someone ready to boil water. The Napalese place two shacks down has been open. … Continue reading →