Meyu Changkiri
Every journey leaves an impression, but some stay with you forever. Our visit to Narsapur was one such journey – not only for its scenic charm and historical significance, but above all for the genuine hospitality we experienced at every step.
My wife and I recently had the privilege of visiting Andhra Pradesh at the invitation of Rev. Jeeva Ratnam Pakerla and his ministry. While the purpose of our trip was ministry, we were deeply touched by the care of friends, family, and locals alike. From the very beginning, we felt welcomed and at home, experiencing firsthand the generosity and kindness for which the people of Andhra are so well known.
Rev. Jeeva Ratnam Pakerla leads a vibrant ministry in and around Narsapur, committed to preaching the Gospel, nurturing congregations, and serving communities with compassion. His dedication to building bridges among people and strengthening the Christian witness in Andhra is both inspiring and humbling. It was a privilege to share in this ministry and witness the impact of his faithful service.
This was our first visit to Narsapur as a couple, and the town left a lasting impression with its peaceful atmosphere and gracious people. Situated on the banks of the Godavari, Narsapur has a rich history of global interaction. The Dutch first landed there in 1626 and developed it as a shipbuilding port, linking the region to distant lands.
Christian missionaries also played a significant role in shaping the area. From the 18th and 19th centuries, missionaries and scholars such as Charles Philip Brown came with a vision not only to serve spiritually but also to uplift through education and cultural preservation. Brown (1798-1884), remembered as the “Father of the Telugu Renaissance,” compiled dictionaries, translated classical works, and promoted literacy with missionary zeal and selfless devotion.
In Narsapur, missionaries established churches, promoted social reforms such as dignity for women, the abolition of untouchability, and civic cleanliness, and expanded access to healthcare. Beyond these tangible contributions, they nurtured values of honesty, humility, and service – qualities still visible today in the hospitality and civility of the people.
Andhra Pradesh stands out distinctively among its neighbors. Its people are peaceful, tolerant, and embody harmonious coexistence of Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and others. Driving through Narsapur, the lush greenery immediately catches the eye. Even at airports like Hyderabad and Rajahmundry, the politeness of staff reflects the region’s warmth. Andhra truly makes one feel at home.
Food in Andhra Pradesh is an experience of its own. In Narsapur, we enjoyed chicken dumdum biryani, varieties of idlis and dosas with sambar, shrimp dishes, kajoor tomatoes, roti, fish, roasted corn, custard apple, bananas, and jaggery tea and coffee. Rediscovering the classic Thumbs Up bottle and refreshing lemonade was a delightful surprise. The famous Royal Bakery of Narsapur added its own charm.
On a short trip with Jeeva and Hanu to Palakollu in West Godavari, we tasted traditional sweets and savories at Ananda Sai Sweets. The Dry Fruit Puthareku – a delicate sweet with paper-thin dough layered with dry fruits – was especially memorable, along with spicy masala cashews, tangy Kaju 65, and Jeedi Pappu Gulla Paakam. Each treat reflected Andhra’s rich culinary heritage and added joy to our journey.
Meals in Andhra are more than food – they are an expression of love. Every dish, whether simple or elaborate, carried the warmth of people eager to share a part of their life and culture with us.
Our visit was made even more special by the gracious care of Jeeva and his family. His wife, Evangeline, turned our stay into a heartfelt homecoming. Jeeva’s friend Hanu guided every trip with care, Victor (Jeeva’s uncle) pampered us, and the love of Jeeva’s parents and grandchildren – Roselin, Robin, John, Joel, Austin, and Kathleen – made us feel truly part of the family. His in-laws and cousins also went out of their way to look after us, filling every gap with kindness and attention. Their love reminded us of the Godavari itself – steady, life-giving, and always embracing.
Friendship Beyond Boundaries
Equally remarkable was the friendship between Jeeva and Hanu. They have been classmates and bosom friends since childhood, and their bond has only grown stronger with time. Jeeva comes from a Christian family and Hanu from a Hindu family, yet their friendship goes far beyond religion. The way they care for one another is extraordinary. Their mutual respect, not only for each other but also for their families, is deeply moving.
Where does such a friendship come from? It springs from values nurtured since childhood – respect, loyalty, and openness. Over the years, those seeds of trust have blossomed into a bond that transcends differences. In many ways, their friendship reflects the larger spirit of Andhra – peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and the belief that friendship and humanity come before barriers. Their story is an example worth following, reminding us that true friendship is built not on similarity, but on respect and genuine care.
We explored serene beaches, nearby villages, and neighboring towns, and had the honor of speaking in local congregations – moments both enriching and humbling. Evening walks along the Godavari filled us with peace. One night, exploring Narsapur on foot, we discovered the famed street-side Narsapur Tea and the Royal Bakery – immersing ourselves in everyday local life.
Our stay at Sunrise Inn on the Godavari’s bank was restorative, perfectly mirroring the town’s warmth and charm. From the Ratnam family’s generosity to the culture, cuisine, and hospitality of Narsapur, this trip became one of the most memorable experiences of our lives.
Andhra Pradesh is not just a land of scenic beauty and rich culture – it is a land of warm hearts. The kindness and genuine care of its people made our ministry trip unforgettable. In many ways, the values instilled long ago by missionaries such as Charles Philip Brown – through education, civility, and service – still live on in the people today. Truly, in Andhra, strangers are treated like family, and every visit becomes a story of connection, joy, and gratitude.
As we departed, we felt carried by a current of love flowing endlessly, like the Godavari itself through Narsapur – gentle, abundant, and life-giving.
May that love continue to inspire us, wherever we go.
~ Meyu Changkiri