Photo Gallery

A man rows a traditional wooden boat, resembling a dugout canoe, through the picturesque backwaters of the Indian state of Kerala, a region often referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’. The scene captures the tranquil, characteristic atmosphere of the narrow canals and lagoons, lined with dense groves of coconut palms. – Thrikkunnapuzha – 1990

This scene is typical of the waterways in the backwaters of Kerala. The boat is a type of barge or dhow, often used to transport sand or other goods through the palm-lined canals. – Thrikkunnapuzha – 1990

This scene is typical of the waterways in the backwaters of Kerala. The boat is a type of barge or dhow, often used to transport sand or other goods through the palm-lined canals. – Thrikkunnapuzha – 1990

This boat is a traditional vessel often referred to as a ‘Kettu Vallam’. Historically, these boats served as the ‘freight carriers’ of the backwaters, transporting goods such as rice, coconuts and sand before the advent of proper roads and railways. A characteristic feature is the sail, which is often made from simple materials such as grain sacks. The banks are densely covered with coconut palms, which is typical of this region near Thrikkunnapuzha, a picturesque coastal town in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. – 1990

The traditional boats of Kerala’s backwaters were historically used as ‘waterway lorries’ to transport goods such as rice, spices and sand. This is a Kettu Vallam from the Thrikkunnapuzha region. The boats are often characterised by hand-woven roofs made of coconut fibre and bamboo, as well as distinctive sails. – 1990

The traditional boats of Kerala’s backwaters were historically used as ‘waterway lorries’ to transport goods such as rice, spices and sand. This is a Kettu Vallam from the Thrikkunnapuzha region. The boats are often characterised by hand-woven roofs made of coconut fibre and bamboo, as well as distinctive sails. – 1990

Locals in a traditional wooden boat (pirogue or canoe), used for transport and daily life on the waterways. The backwaters of Kerala in south-west India form an extensive network of lagoons, lakes, canals and rivers. The banks are lined with dense groves of palm trees, rice fields and small villages, making the backwaters a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. – Thrikkunnapuzha – 1990

The serious yet curious expressions on the two girls’ faces lend the photograph a profound emotional depth. The scene was captured in Thrikkunnapuzha and is typical of Kerala’s rural communities. – 1990