A trip to a village festival, Echambadi, Tamilnadu

 

Being a city bred and having access to visit sweeping beaches, big temples, fortification and monuments it has always been a pleasure traveling to quaint places away from city life.

When a friend invited us to be part of his village annual Pongal festival, the planning started in full glee. We set off to join the family and other friends to celebrate with the Senguttai villagers. 

Nestled in Dharmapuri district, off Kariambadi - Harur  road is this small village Echambadi. This village is known for its dam and few small but ancient temples. The Echambadi dam is an anicut over the Thenpennai river which stores water released from KRP at Krishnagiri. These are the main sources of water for irrigation in Tamil Nadu. It is surprising to note, that this tiny village holds an integral part in the state's agriculture. 

As we drive into this laid back fertile lands, scenes of cattles grazing lush green grass, a local government school, people chatting under huge banyan trees, and few houses scattered far from each other, each having their own fields and cattle sheds welcome us. Our host's home was a well planned, neat abode with a huge sit out. He had specially decorated it with colorful shamiyanas and laid out coir cots, chairs and tables and made elaborate arrangements to make our stay as comfortable as possible. Their family welcomed us with open arms and warm smiles that made us bond as one amongst them right away. We were treated with gracious hospitality of food and company that time flew as we kept wanting to stay longer.

With the hosts and friends 

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The close knit villagers gather together on Kannu Pongal (3rd day after Pongal festival) every year at the Munieashwaran temple of this village. The day starts early with the ladies of the family preparing the offerings and visiting the temple. The whole village slowly gathers for the puja and ceremonies like ear piercing, hair torturing, naming are also performed during this time. The Puja is performed for the idols of Jada muni, Sem Muni and Vaal Muni with much devotion which is followed by rituals and practices of this region and a grand feast. 

Just a glimpse into the vibrant festival and rituals that form the cultural fabric of this region makes you spellbound to the unity and integrity they value in family bonding down generations. Little did we realise the impact this trip would have on us to cherish a lifetime and bond with an entire community. 

As we wandered through the picturesque farms, time slows down and nature takes the center stage. The birds, the trees, the setting sun, the soothing breeze become an unforgettable experience and leave an impact on our souls. Every moment leaves you with a deeper connection to the land, its people, their values, their culinary delights and the bountiful harvest practices that the generations have sustained.

Though Agro tourism is one thriving industry in Tamil Nadu where one experiences the activities of farm lands, it lacks this warmth of people and their true culture and traditions carried with devotion through generations - the real essence of rural Tamil Nadu. Though the younger generations have moved to urban areas for education and business it is indeed beautiful to see them awaiting this festival to gather and take part as one big family. Our trip to this region has left an indelible mark on our souls and awe at the supremely rich culture and heritage the people of this region proudly uphold. 

The pics shared are clicked by my friend Aravind and are copyright 

Follow the link below for more of his clicks 

https://www.instagram.com/a_aravindhan?igsh=aDRkMmV4Mm9laTJ6