If It’s Monday It Must Be Madurai : A conducted Tour of India written by Srinath Perur published by Penguin Books India is a wonderful travelogue. As usual I picked this book via Good Reads but that’s not the only reason. The 3 letter word Ma-Du-Rai intrigued me and I purchased the kindle version and started reading it right away. This is my second non-fiction for this year. The first one was of course, don’t lose your mind, lose your weight.
The book has 10 chapters which explains the conducted tours of ten different places. This book is not a trip or food advisor. It’s more about the people and authors observations in his group during this conducted or the guided tour. He does cover two places outside India – Europe (rather I should say Adiya Chopra’s version of Europe) and Tashkent (Uzbek). The book starts with the Temple tour of Tamil Nadu and moves to Europe. But I got hooked to the book from the third chapter and it slowly grew on me.
I loved the travelogues about Jaisalmer, Assam-Megahalaya and the Kabir Musical Tour. To be honest, I learnt a lot about India. I had no clue about the Dharavi Slum tours. (Ignorant me). Seems like Dharav Slum tour is one of the popular Slum Tour (especially after slum dog millionaire) and that made me to read more about this place. OMG!!! When I read the facts about this place I was so surprised.
I really enjoyed his writing and his keen observations. His explanations about the travel guides are really great especially the Thar desert guide. Loved his reply, when he was asked how he learnt english. The reply was “Desert Knowledge Camel College”.
If you are a non-fiction lover and looking for a funny and an engaging read, I would recommend this book for sure.
PS1 : I have written about the chitirai tiruvizha here. I would like to add little bit more about Madurai. We all know Madurai is known for its temple especially the Meenakshi Amman Temple. There are two other temples too – Pazhamudir Solai And Tiruparankundram temples. The two of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. The other famous temple is the Koodal Azhagar Temple. The other major center of attraction and perfect shopping spot for vessels and golu dolls and also books is the 1000 thoon Madapam (Thousand Pillar Hall). How can I miss Tirumalai Nayakar Mahal? I have attended the Silapadikaram Light and Sounds shows there. Kannalaney from Bombay, Tera Bina from Guru was shot there and also Ragasiya Kanavugal from Bheema. :-) (Dunno if I have missed any other songs) Love that place.
Why suddenly about Madurai? Wait until tomorrow. :-) Have a great weekend folks.
PS2: These are my personal opinion and I haven’t received any remuneration for this review.
Image Source : www.goodreads.com
You know what, Srinath Perur is my college senior and he recently launched his second book, Ghachar Gochar :)
Am yet to read his books though :(
:-) Loved his writing style. This is book is not available for lending in kindle. :-( :-(
That’s fine yaar :) I’ll get it from here :)
My native is Madurai and I’m in MaduraI now actually!!!! It’s an awesome place!
Oh is it.. Wow you are in Mdu right now?? Great man.
Yes I am..
I so want to read the first book you recommended.. will check out for it..
Sure Ani.. Both are available in kindle and used books are also there. Please check it out.