The Alappuzha backwaters sustain livelihoods through traditions, where fishermen, villagers, and nature thrive.
Childlike Joy A simple, carefree bath in the backwaters, echoing innocence and waves of joy.
After watching the bird forage at sunrise, I then saw a man bathing joyfully, his laughter echoing. He played like a child, diving into the water and collecting freshwater oysters, his hands moving skillfully beneath the surface. Moreover, his slow, simple movements reflected the village’s peaceful life, where every act felt close to nature. In that moment, the Alappuzha backwaters embraced him like an old friend, offering comfort and connection. Finally, on this quiet morning, his life began with a childlike bath. Not only for him but also for me, as well, feeling waves of joy witnessing such a serene moment.
Playful Moment A man, with childlike joy, bathes in the backwaters, his laughter echoing in the quiet morning air.
As morning light touched the calm backwater, a fisherman guided his boat, his catch glistening. Meanwhile, his sun-worn face lit up at the sight of fresh Kerala shrimp. Meanwhile, the sea’s scent blended with fresh air as he untied his nets, his movements filled with quiet contentment. Fishing wasn’t just a job—it was his life, deeply rooted in Kerala’s coastal heritage, bringing him pure joy.
Lakeside Trade A lakeside exchange of daily harvest.
On the shore, a man approached him. He was a regular customer, selecting only the fresh seafood in Alappuzha. Then, nodding, he examined the shrimp, his hands moving generously and gently. With a smile, he appreciated the fisherman’s hard work. Then, they exchanged a few friendly, familiar words about the weather, the quality of the catch, and the day’s market. Meanwhile, the fisherman’s smile remained, knowing his labor fed the village and shaped others’ days. As he handed over the money and the shrimp were placed in his basket, an understanding was shared. For the fisherman, it was more than selling fish; in fact, over time, he walked away, ultimately carrying locally sourced seafood that would soon nourish a family, eventually creating waves of joy among them.
Morning Catch Exchange Fishermen unload fresh catch in backwaters with waves of joy at their abundant harvest.
Alappuzha is often called the Venice of the East, and exploring its waterways, I agree. This place has a rich cultural heritage, deeply intertwined with its Kerala fishing industry. Fishing has shaped life here for generations, with Kerala’s backwaters serving as the community’s lifeblood. It’s not just a livelihood but a vital part of Alappuzha’s identity.
A Quiet Exchange A fisherman and his regular customer share a moment, both knowing their roles in the village.
The roots of fishing traditions in Kerala, in fact, stretch back to ancient times when Alappuzha was a bustling port city. It was a key point in the spice trade that connected India to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Moreover, the city’s waterways supported not only the trade of spices but also, consequently, a thriving fishing industry. Fish, a staple food, was vital for local consumption and trade, bringing joy to the community.
Over the years, I’ve learned about the diverse Alappuzha fishing techniques that have been passed down. Some of these methods are still in practice today, such as large nets, traps, and bamboo fish baskets. It’s remarkable how these indigenous practices demonstrate such a deep understanding of the waters and their resources. A fascinating part of Alappuzha’s fishing culture is the Chinese fishing nets, introduced by 14th-century Chinese traders. Eventually, these large mechanized nets, still in use, indeed offer a glimpse into the past, once vital to Alappuzha’s rich trade history.
Blue Bounty Fresh blue prawns glisten in the morning light.
Copyrights: All the photos and text in this post are the copyright of Silambarasan Devendiran and Creative Hut Institute of Photography and film. Their reproduction, full or part, is forbidden without the explicit approval of the rightful owners.
