May is the month when we visit our native place, Guhagar, a beautiful coastal village on the west coast of India in Maharashtra. I've included a map for better understanding.
Our roots are in Guhagar, but my grandfather moved to Mumbai in his youth in search of a job and settled there. Though we live in Mumbai, we make it a point to travel to Guhagar every year in May. This annual trip not only gives us a much-needed break but also allows us to seek blessings from our family deity, Shiva, whose temple is in Guhagar.
Guhagar is about a six-hour drive from Mumbai, located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Konkan is a scenic coastal belt stretching approximately 700-800 km, dotted with beaches and small villages. Guhagar is one such gem.
**Here are some images of Guhagar beach.****
Our visit in May coincides with the season for jackfruit, karvandas (a local berry-like fruit), and mangoes. We relished these fresh, seasonal fruits during our stay. In Guhagar and the wider Konkan region, it's common to have jackfruit, coconut, and mango trees in the backyard.
Below is a picture of “Thalipeeth.” Thalipeeth is a traditional Maharashtrian multi-grain pancake made from a blend of flours and spices, mixed with onions and herbs. It’s typically served with yogurt or chutney, making for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast.
I've also included photos of a typical house in our native place.
Being located on the coast, Guhagar offers delicious and fresh seafood, which is another highlight of our trips.
Our annual visit to Guhagar is not just a vacation; it's a journey back to our roots. The serenity of the beach, the taste of fresh, local produce, and the sense of belonging we feel in our native place make this trip truly special.