I’m going to let you in on a secret – I’m a Malayali born and brought up in Abu Dhabi. When my family decided to shift to Kerala permanently, I was devastated that I’d have to leave behind cherished childhood moments and excited because it was going to be roller-coaster, culture-shocked ride living in Kerala. It took me approximately two years to adjust. I’ve always loved being the insider and outsider in Kerala. It took me years of unlearning (and learning) to understand the Malayali culture.
Fascinating as it is, the cultural diversity in Kerala and UAE makes it unique. If you want to be surrounded by nature and lush greenery, Kerala is the place to be in. However, if you want to in the vicinity of luxury, you should probably fly to UAE. Having lived in both places, I realised that only I could relate to certain things only because I’ve had the privilege to be a Gulf born Malayali. And this applies to everyone who’s had the privilege – Oh, there are many!
And let’s be honest, we Gulf born Malayalis are simply awesome. In all that spirit, I’m going to list down things only we will relate to.
1. When calling a teacher “Ma’am” became “Miss”
2. Nothing can beat ‘Gulf chocolates’
3. Anything that made you smile would end with “Mashallah!”
4. The fireworks at Burj Khalifa during New Year’s is your Thrissur Pooram ‘Vedikkettu’
