Pollachi, Pollachi, Pollachi. What a place! On my fourth visit from London, to incredible, vibrant India, I found myself in Pollachi. My work brought me here, the ethical underwear brand I work for, ‘Pants to Poverty’ (www.pantstopoverty.com) is in constant search for the world’s best organic/fair trade cotton, and our quest brought us to the wonderful Appachi Cotton based in Pollachi. However, work became pleasure as I marveled at all Pollachi had to offer.
From the astonishing scenery, to the hospitable, friendly people, my stay was one I will not forget! I was lucky enough to be taken under the wing (pardon the pun), by the lovely Pravin and Keerthana (of Pollachi Papyrus), for an early morning birdwatching trip. I soon learnt the vast variety of species’ we had the possibility of seeing and absorbed as much knowledge as I could from Pravin and Keerthana’s patient explanations of the varied habitat.
After a few hours of adventuring, our morning plan became the perfect day, as once again, the hospitality of Pollachi locals found us in Pravin’s home eating incredible home-cooked food. The culinary delights of the day were topped off for me when we then visited a local coconut farm and drank, then ate the fruit freshly cut from the tree. I obviously understand this to be nothing too special for the lucky residents of Pollachi, having grown up with such deliciousness; but living in London means I rarely, if ever cross paths with fresh coconut water or flesh!
Pollachi really has everything, from exciting wildlife to delicious local food that set my senses alight, putting London’s far blander palette to shame. However, what will always remain most memorable for me, are the people I met here. Going over and above all expectation to make my stay as comfortable yet stimulating as possible, I will be forever grateful to them!
Thank you to Pravin and Keerthana for our wonderful Day together, and to Mani Chinnaswamy of Appachi Cotton, for facilitating it.
With Love,
Jaz O’ Hara.
