The Velas Turtle Festival
In March 2019, amidst the tranquil coastal beauty of Alibag, an extraordinary expedition unfolded as I, accompanied by my friends Prasad and Kaustubh, set out on a remarkable escapade to the Velas Turtle Festival. Little did we know that this excursion would not only expose us to the marvels of nature but also weave memories that would last a lifetime.
The Road Less Traveled
Our journey commenced around 9 pm, with the cool night air whispering promises of adventure. Departing from Alibag, we embarked on a scenic road trip via the Alibag-Kolad-Mangaon-Mhasala-Velas route. Though I was initially under the weather, a quick visit to the doctor and a dose of medication paved the way for a restful journey, with me reclining on the back seat, cocooned in sleep.
Dawn’s Awakening
As the first light of dawn kissed the horizon, we found ourselves at the doorstep of Velas, greeted by the gentle murmur of waves. A few hours of much-needed rest in our tent near the beach rejuvenated us, setting the stage for the grand spectacle that awaited us at the Turtle Festival.
A Journey of Enlightenment
With eager steps, we ventured towards the hatching site at Velas Beach, where Mohan Upadhye, a beacon of knowledge on turtle migration, awaited us. Mohan’s impassioned discourse shed light on the grave threats faced by sea turtles and the pivotal role played by Velas in their conservation. We learned of the arduous journey undertaken by these majestic creatures, spanning over 3,000 miles, as they return to their natal beach to lay eggs—a phenomenon known as the Great Turtle Migration.
Mohan Upadhye: Guardian of the Seas
In the heart of Velas resides Mohan Upadhye, a venerable guardian of nature and a true hero in the realm of turtle conservation. For over two decades, Mohan has dedicated his life to safeguarding the Olive Ridley turtles, earning accolades from the Maharashtra Government for his unwavering commitment. His humble abode, Mohan’s Turtle Nest Home Stay, welcomed us with open arms, offering a glimpse into the rustic charm of Kokan’s countryside.
The Coastal Odyssey
Our return journey unfolded along the picturesque coastal route, traversing Velas, Bankot, Bagmandla, Dighi, Agardanda, Murud, Kashid, and finally, back to Alibag. Ferry crossings at Bankot-Bagmandla and Dighi-Agardanda added a touch of maritime charm to our voyage, while a delectable seafood lunch break at Dighi left our taste buds tingling with delight.
The Soundtrack of Memories
As fatigue threatened to engulf us on the home stretch, Prasad’s playlist of jovial Marathi tunes breathed new life into our weary souls. Laughter and banter filled the air, transforming the final hours of our journey into a jubilant celebration of camaraderie and friendship.
Journey’s End, Memories Begin
As the clock struck 4:00 pm in Alibag, our expedition drew to a close, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories etched in the sands of time. From the ethereal beauty of Velas to the warmth of Mohan’s hospitality, each moment of our adventure served as a poignant reminder of the wonders that await those who dare to explore beyond the beaten path.
In conclusion, our sojourn to the Velas Turtle Festival was not merely a journey of miles but a voyage of the soul—a testament to the enduring bond between mankind and nature, and the profound impact that each individual can make in preserving the treasures of our planet.