Where The Rain is Born ~ Anita Nair (Writings about Kerala) (25 of 25)

 Where the Rain is Born: Writings About Kerala, edited by Anita Nair, is a captivating anthology that delves into the multifaceted essence of Kerala, India's southwestern coastal state. Published by Penguin Books in 2002, this collection brings together a rich tapestry of 34 essays, short stories, poems, and excerpts from both English and Malayalam literature, some in translation. 

The anthology offers readers a panoramic view of Kerala's lush landscapes, cultural heritage, and social dynamics. Through the voices of various writers, the book paints vivid portraits of the state's backwaters, monsoon rains, temple festivals, and the everyday lives of its people. It serves as both a nostalgic journey for those familiar with Kerala and an insightful introduction for newcomers.

The collection features works from a diverse group of esteemed writers, each bringing their unique perspective to the narrative of Kerala:

Excerpts from "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy: Provides a glimpse into the complexities of family and society in Kerala.

"Ancient Promises" by Jaishree Misra: Explores themes of love, duty, and self-discovery.

"Charlis and I" by Shashi Tharoor: Narrates a personal story of friendship and social change. Reflects on his childhood summers in his grandmother's village, capturing the idyllic rural life.

"Chasing the Monsoon" by Alexander Frater: Captures the anticipation and arrival of the monsoon rains.  Describes the dramatic arrival of the southwest monsoon, highlighting its significance to the region. 

Pankaj Mishra: Shares an experience at a "no-Indians please" hotel in Kovalam, shedding light on social prejudices.

Salman Rushdie: Explores Cochin's rich Jewish and Portuguese heritage, delving into its historical complexities.

William Dalrymple: Discovers a living church of St. Thomas in contemporary Kochi, connecting past and present.

Vaikom Muhammad Basheer: Offers a poignant tale that stands out for its emotional depth.

M.T. Vasudevan Nair: Presents a stark portrayal of poverty, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

Kamala Das: Provides introspective poetry that delves into personal and cultural identity.

These contributions collectively explore themes such as tradition versus modernity, communal harmony, social stratification, and the enduring allure of Kerala's natural beauty.

The anthology is thoughtfully curated to guide readers through various facets of Kerala.

Each piece is selected to offer a unique lens through which to view Kerala, making the anthology a mosaic of experiences and reflections.

For those interested in exploring the depths of Kerala's culture, history, and natural beauty through literature, Where the Rain is Born serves as an enriching and enlightening read.