The Magical Mulberry-Part II

The succulent sweet fruits of Mulberry That this wonderful tree has played a seminal role in providing to the civilized world, one of the finest products of nature representing both luxury and beauty; and remains an abiding tribute to both the enterprise and refinement of human race, does not take away from it the privilegeContinue reading “The Magical Mulberry-Part II”

Celebrating Mother’s Day

Today is Mother’s Day. Many of us will meet our mothers today if they stay away, or perhaps spend a little more time with her if she is staying together. We may even bring her flowers and gifts. For those, whose mothers have departed, a gentle and grateful memory will do.Irrespective of its origin, anyContinue reading “Celebrating Mother’s Day”

The Magical Mulberry-Part I

O, the mulberry-tree is of trees the queen!Bare long after the rest are green.But as time steals onwards, while none perceives.Slowly she clothes herself with leaves.” -Dinah Maria This one tree, solitary and aloof, stands majestically in my forecourt. Tall and luxuriant, its bright verdure makes the surrounding trees pale in comparison. A much tallerContinue reading “The Magical Mulberry-Part I”

Charleston-The Jewel of the South- Part IV

A Taste of Southern Cuisine The concept of Southern hospitality often evokes images of warm welcomes, gracious manners, and, of course, mouth-watering food. But is there truly something distinctive about the way Charleston in particular, embraces this tradition? As I delved into the culinary world of this historic city, I discovered that Charleston’s famed hospitalityContinue reading “Charleston-The Jewel of the South- Part IV”

Charleston-The Jewel of the South-Part III

Azaleas, Camellias, and Magnolias Charleston’s legacy remains incomplete without acknowledging its historic plantations. Nestled within the verdant expanses of South Carolina, these estates provide a hauntingly beautiful window into America’s pre-Civil War era. Swathed in azaleas, camellias, and magnolias, these plantations stand as monuments to both the grandeur and the strife of a bygone age.Continue reading “Charleston-The Jewel of the South-Part III”

Charleston-The jewel of The South- Part II

Of Slave Trade, Gullah, and Ghosts Charleston’s history is a multi-layered complexity giving it a mystique of its own. Seen retrospectively and with the advantage of hindsight, some of these aspects are decidedly sordid and disturbing. The unconscionable use of slaves in the plantations whose labour made the aristocratic families notoriously rich is one suchContinue reading “Charleston-The jewel of The South- Part II”

Charleston: The Jewel of the South

Charleston, arguably the jewel of the South, claims a historic and cultural richness that rivals that of Boston, New York, or even Philadelphia in the North. While on record, it stands shoulder to shoulder in historical stature with these other towns, it perhaps scores over them in offering a synthesis that is both unique andContinue reading “Charleston: The Jewel of the South”

Cherry Blossom

(The place where I live presently is witnessing cherry blossom. An event that announces the arrival of spring, and presents a sight that fills one with joy, serenity and elation. Swathes of street, and at times the whole street lined with cherry trees burst into a flamboyance of pink, white and mauve, transforming mundane avenuesContinue reading “Cherry Blossom”

Cherry Blossom: A Symphony of Transience and Beauty

“In the presence of cherry blossoms, time stands still, and the world becomes a sanctuary of serenity and grace.” Cherries are in bloom these days- The lovely delicate flowers that cover the whole tree in full bloom, may not be as well-known as the Japanese cherry blossoms or closer home, for instance, that of WashingtonContinue reading “Cherry Blossom: A Symphony of Transience and Beauty”

Whispers of the South: Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton

Just about 25 miles from the historic city of Savannah across the river with the same name, lies Palmetto Bluff. Nestled among majestic palm trees and perched on serene bluffs, this beautiful resort, in many senses, represents the soul and spirit of wild North Carolina, and in particular of its ‘lowcoutry’. Spread over a 1000Continue reading “Whispers of the South: Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton”