A trip to India in April for shopping for the boutique was the plan but it turned into much more. Yes the heat was scorching, intolerable even to the locals, but it was a welcome change to the end of a winter in the US that just seemed to drag on.
We landed in our home state of Kerala locate at the southern end of India. Kochi is a big hub for shopping with the largest mall in South Asia, Lulu Mall and Hypermarket, located at the heart of the city. We did roam around the air-conditioned halls and saw a movie in the multiplex but didn't do much shopping there. A lot of people seemed to be doing the same thing....maybe they to were looking for a reprieve from the heat like we were.

My first shopping destination was Madurai, located in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. My medical school classmates B and M took us around the famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple and we were in awe of the artistry and expanse of this heritage site, centuries old. Words will not do this complex justice. But just as amazing were the huge warehouses of wholesale businesses surrounding the temple.

One item I was on the lookout for were bangles.Bangles are worn by most every Indian woman. It comes in different colors and materials. Gold bangles are a staple but the younger generation of millennials don't put as much value in traditional gold jewelry as their mothers and grandmothers do.They prefer to be on the cutting edge of trends and items that complement their outfits and busy lifestyles.

My friend took me to a wholesaler family business that ships jewelry all over India. I was in awe of floor to ceiling shelves of boxes and boxes of bangles of every shape and color. One could easily get lost along these tiny walking paths carved out in between the shelves. I know Asha would have gasped with an added emphatic "OMG" at the sight!
So bangles are what I bought, boxes and boxes of them. I didn't want the trip to end but seeing my bored husband and friend I knew it was time to go.
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Check out ASHA Jewels in the coming weeks as I add the selection of items I bought that day. You should find something that catches your eye like it did mine!

Peace,
Asha's Mama

​#BeHopeBeAsha