Some how exploring different sites of Tamil Nadu brought me closer to Tamil culture that was indeed very different from my country. However different the culture might be but I sensed many common attributes with the people of my country. The people here were quite traditional but with contemporary outlook. They dressed differently, spoke different language, ate different food yet shared features similar features that included warmth and hospitality.

As I closely observed Tamilians, I found that they were easy at food. They major meal included Rice and curry. Other dishes that they love to eat was Sambhar, Wada and Dosa,(Dosa is another version of vegetable roll). The delicious dishes from the state are relished all over the country and abroad. There is a wide range of rice and vegetable preparations. The Tamil food is of great value and good quality. The meals are traditionally served on banana leaves.

Since I was in Tamil Nadu for quiet some time, I attended many cultural programmes. These cultural programmes reflected the essence of Tamil Nadu. Bharatnatayam was one of the major classical dance form of Tamil Nadu and I literally enjoyed watching it.

The major festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu are Chithirai Festival, Mango Festival - Krishnagiri, Cape Festival, Pongal Festival, Natyaanjali Festival. Out of all Pongal is one of the most famous. Though I was not able to become a part of any of these festivals but the very narration of these festivals created dynamic images in my mind.

In fact, just to understand the culture, I planned a one day stay at my guide house. And believe it or not it really helped me, as I was came close to the people of Tamil Nadu in much better way then I ever thought. Their lifestyle which is quite simple far from any modern way of life. "Simple Living and High Thinking" is the philosophy they follow. The most interesting thing that I noticed was that they used to have food while sitting at floor. They didn't had any dining tables instead used small low lying tables.

Honestly, if you are planning your tour to Tamil Nadu, don't have any doubts about the people since they are highly amicable. I didn't faced any problem but off course I was cautious about touts and misleads.