A Family's Unspoken Love - Part 10
Varikkasseri Mana is situated on the Ottapalam-Shornur state highway, a beloved location in Malayalam cinema history.Varikasseri Mana was the residence of the first Adhya Brahmin family in Valluvanad and is currently functioning under a trust.
The trio parked their car at Varussery Mana and stepped out. Deepti gazed around in awe.
"It looks just like it did in the movie," Deepti remarked, glancing at Achu and Hari.
They both smiled in agreement.
"People are enjoying themselves here. Some are sitting around, college students are taking selfies in various poses, and there's even a 'save the date' photoshoot happening," Achu observed.
The three of them strolled further into the property. Hari snapped pictures of both of them, mostly capturing Deepti's varied facial expressions.
As they walked down a corridor, Deepti began to sing.
Tohaiyin is over?"
Deepti, slow down," Hari advised her.
"That scene was shot at The Padmanabhapuram Palace," he added.
"However, there must be a Nagavalli around here somewhere," Deepti quipped.
Deepti approached two men, extended her hand, and sang, "You're not with your fingers. Vaadidum Pon Veenai Naan..."
Achu interrupted, "Dee, let's not go looking for Nagavalli and start dancing now."
Achu took Deepti's hand and led her away.
"Hari, let's stay here for a while," Deepti pleaded.
"Sorry, dear, let's keep moving," Achu insisted, pulling Deepti along.
Hari documented their visit with his camera and walked alongside them, wearing a smile.
After exploring Pathayapura, the pond, and the temple, they paused at the ancestral home on the Mana's grounds for photographs before continuing on to Palakkad.
"Do you see that? That's the Mayannur bridge, and the river beneath it is our Bharathapuzha. It's a bustling spot in the evenings," Hari informed them during the drive.
"Is it?" Achu and Deepti looked at it in awe. Hari briefly slowed the car before continuing.
Their next stop was the Malampuzha Dam. Deepti and Achu took advantage of the ride to catch up on some sleep.
"Dee," Hari's voice woke them both abruptly.
"What happened?" Deepti asked.
"We've arrived. If you wanted to sleep, why didn't you just do it at home?" Hari quipped, looking at them.
"I'm sorry. Didn't you get tired of your home's mud and fall asleep?" Deepti responded with a smile.
Hari gave them both a stern look, causing them to clench their teeth.
"Are you getting out?" Hari asked, gravely.
"Just tell us when you're getting out," Deepti said as she opened the car door and stepped out, with Achu and Hari following suit.
"This is the Malampuzha Dam," Deepti remarked, shading her eyes with her hand and looking around.
They all took in the surroundings.
"Malampuzha Park is often called the 'Vrindavanam of Kerala,'" Hari shared.
They glanced at him, intrigued.
"Surrounded by lush green lawns, gardens filled with numerous flower varieties, small ponds, fountains, and seating areas, the park offers a breathtaking experience," Hari elaborated.
"You've clearly done your research," Deepti said with a playful grin.
"That's right," Hari agreed.
"There's also the sculpture 'Yakshi' by the renowned sculptor Kanai Kunhiraman, which is a major attraction," Achu added.
"Alright, let's explore everything," Deepti said with enthusiasm. "And maybe even more."
Hari locked the car and joined them as they paid the entrance fee, purchased their tickets, and entered the garden.
Deepti eagerly examined every sight in Malampuzha, from the dam to Malampuzha Udyano, Children's Park, Eco Park, Japan Garden, Freshwater Aquarium, Snake Park, Ropeway, Fantasy Park, Speed Boat Ride, Suspension Bridge, and Yakshi. It was all new and exciting to her.
Her face lit up with a shy smile when she saw the Yakshi sculpture.
After a satisfying meal, they continued on their journey to Kava near Malampuzha.
"Kava is known for its stunning views, particularly during the rainy season. The setting sun in Kava is a sight to behold," Hari told them.
"Let's go," Achu agreed.
And so they did, heading towards the heart of the city, Palakkad Fort.
"The fort was constructed in 1766 by the King of Mysore. It holds numerous heroic tales and historical significance. It's now under the Central Archaeological Survey of India," Hari explained.
"In front of the fort's entrance, you can see the ground that used to house the Sultan's elephants and horses," Achu added. "There's also a children's park nearby."
After exploring the fort's surroundings and spending some time under a banyan tree, they continued their journey to Nelliyampathi.
They reached Nelliyampathi via Nemmara in Kollengode. They stayed there for the day and the next, exploring the tea gardens and the beautiful hill views.
They visited Sitarkundu, Karappara Suspension Bridge, an orange farm, and more.
On their way back, they stopped at Pothundi Park and admired the wildlife. Their Nelliyampathi trip, filled with the charm of cold weather and picturesque snow, became a cherished memory. Deepti's happiness brought joy to Hari and Achu.
They remained by Deepti's side throughout, like protective guardians.
"When we reach Ottapalam," Hari asked, "what's next? Straight home?"
"No, let's visit Kizhoor Eco-Tourism as well before going home," Deepti suggested.
"Are you sure you want to?" Hari inquired.
"Let's do it," she replied, taking a bite of her ice cream.
"Alright," Hari said as he turned the car towards Cherpullassery road.
"Ananganmalai is so close, but I've never been there," Deepti remarked.
"We're going there," Hari assured her.
Ananganadi village lies on the Ottapalam-Cherupulassery road, with Anangan Hill running parallel to the village. According to legend, a piece of Lord Hanuman turned into an Anangan Mala after he plucked the Marutuvamala filled with medicinal herbs from the Himalayas and flew to Lanka.
The panoramic views from above were breathtaking, and an eco-tourism project had been developed near the hill.
They stood on the hillside as the wind gently swept through the mountains. Many others were scattered around, taking in the view.
"Look at how small the houses look from up here," Deepti remarked, pointing with her finger.
"Be careful," Hari cautioned.
Deepti smiled and stretched her leg, playfully pretending to slip and lean back.
