Embarking on a unique adventure amidst the challenges of a pandemic, Lakshmi Menon introduces Traveli—an innovative exploration of Kerala’s hidden gems, guided by the power of social media. Through her travels, Lakshmi delves into neighborhoods to unearth lesser-known arts, crafts, and cuisines, enriching her own experiences while sharing them with a global audience.
Have you ever heard of the sacred broom from Payyunur, crafted from a special weed reserved solely for cleaning temple sanctuaries? Or the palm-sized rice balls, ‘are ariyundas,’ lovingly encased in banana leaves and crafted at the crafts village of Sargaalaya in Vadakkara? Perhaps you’ve never worked a turmeric-washed mundu from Kannur? These are just a few of the fascinating discoveries Lakshmi Menon made during her recent five-day journey, aptly named Traveli – a blend of ‘Travel‘ and ‘Maveli.’
This unconventional expedition, shaped by conversations on the social audio app Clubhouse, invited participants to join Lakshmi virtually as she traversed Kerala’s diverse landscapes. With her car as a mobile studio, Lakshmi’s 7,800 followers eagerly tuned in, immersing themselves in her firsthand encounters with the region’s rich culture and heritage. Through the Traveli Club Room, followers could vicariously explore local communities and unearth hidden treasures alongside Lakshmi.
Covering a distance of 700 kilometers over five days—from Kochi to Kozhikode and back—Lakshmi’s journey was not just a physical exploration but a collaborative endeavor. Adopting a ‘hop-on, hop-off’ model, she encouraged fellow travelers to join her along a pre-planned route, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared discovery. Flexibility was key, allowing for impromptu detours suggested by her Clubhouse companions, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience for all involved.
From showcasing the innovative ecosystem of the Kochi Start Up Mission to shining a spotlight on local artisans like sculptor Kailasan and potter Haseena Suresh, Lakshmi’s journey celebrated Kerala’s vibrant community of creators and entrepreneurs. Each stop along the way revealed hidden treasures—from the Thalassery Heritage Project to the Sargaalaya Crafts Village—underscoring the richness of Kerala’s cultural tapestry.
But Traveli wasn’t just about exploration; it was also a journey of connection and resilience. Alongside her discoveries, Lakshmi carried two symbolic companions—Kathakali and Kathakali, Karuna dolls representing the resilience needed to combat COVID-19. As she navigated Kerala’s landscapes, she embodied the spirit of resilience and unity, weaving a narrative of hope and inspiration amidst uncertainty.
Through Traveli, Lakshmi Menon continues to redefine the boundaries of exploration, leveraging the power of social media to foster connections, celebrate diversity, and uncover the hidden treasures of Kerala’s soul. As she travels the roads less traveled, she invites us all to join her on a journey of discovery, one story at a time.
Media Links:
thehindu.com