Along the River Kaveri - A Village Life Experience

Overview

Long associated for the many aspects of the cultural roots of Tamil Nadu, the River Kaveri (now Cauvery) nurtures and nourishes everyone that lies on its path as it flows from the Western Ghats to the Bay of Bengal, a distance of 802 kms. One such community has been the inhabitants of the riverside town of Tiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. It has long been venerated as the seat of the arts and culture. This tour aims to support the work of its hostess, a music teacher and scholar, who runs an organization that works for the revival of long-forgotten cultural traditions while also supporting less privileged children of the village.

Sacred South Indian music is one of India’s most enduring cultural legacies, and Tamil Nadu not only gave us present-day Bharatanatyam, but also the incredibly rich tradition of Carnatic music. Nestled by the banks of the now much dwindled Kaveri, Thiruvaiyaru was an ancient hub of southern classical music The legendary poet-saint Thyagaraja penned many of his 7,000 compositions by its banks,  so this tour with someone whose roots are embedded in very ancient musical culture is sure to enrich us all greatly.

Why you will love it

• Village tour with a local music teacher and scholar
• Soaking in the rich nuances of its musical heritage and cultural richness
• Meet and interact with local artisans/villagers
• Look beyond temples and visit a village away from the bustling town of Thanjavur
• Enjoy traditional Tamil snacks and home-made filter coffee

What you will experience

Our hostess, a music teacher and scholar, like the Kaveri, has been affecting a cultural revival in her village. She shares with us the stories of Devadasis and Poet Saints who have made her village an iconic musical and spiritual destination. She also reflects on the river Kaveri and its immense influence on the village and its people. No visit to a Tamil household is complete without a cup of filter coffee, which is what will fortify us before we say our goodbyes. Our Hosts run an organization that works for the revival of long-forgotten cultural traditions while also supporting less privileged children of the village.