UK-Born Pepita Seth, 84, Officially Becomes Indian Citizen After Five Decades in Kerala
Some travelers visit a destination briefly, snap photographs, and depart. Others arrive in a place and quietly recognize, "This feels like home." Pepita Seth firmly belongs to the latter category.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Pepita journeyed to India years ago driven solely by curiosity and a spirit of adventure. She had no initial plan to settle permanently. However, during her travels, Kerala captivated her profoundly—its people, vibrant traditions, rich colors, and daily rhythms gradually won her heart.
From Visitor to Lifelong Resident
What began as a temporary trip evolved into a deep, enduring love story with the southern Indian state. More than fifty years later, at 84 years old, Pepita has officially become an Indian citizen, a milestone many in Kerala believe was long overdue.
She has resided in Kerala for decades, primarily in Thrissur, which she now unequivocally calls home. In 2024, she applied for Indian citizenship, and in February 2026, District Collector Arjun Pandian presented her with the naturalization certificate. He described the occasion as rare and profoundly meaningful, highlighting her extensive efforts to share Kerala's cultural heritage globally.
A Deep Cultural Immersion
For Pepita, this was not merely administrative paperwork; becoming Indian represented a cherished, long-held aspiration. Affectionately known as Kerala's "adopted daughter" by locals, this title perfectly encapsulates her integration. She did not merely live in Kerala—she became an integral part of its social and cultural fabric.
Her connection to Kerala transcends typical tourism. Over the years, she extensively traveled across the state, witnessing Kathakali performances, experiencing Theyyam rituals in northern Kerala, and participating in temple festivals and melams, embracing their beautiful chaos. Gradually, she began documenting her observations through photography and writing.
Documenting Heritage and Earning Recognition
From festival elephants and sacred groves to daily rituals and ordinary moments, Pepita captured everything with authentic curiosity and meticulous care. Her photographs gained international acclaim, and her work on Theyyam, also known as Kaliyattam, played a pivotal role in introducing this powerful ritual tradition to a global audience.
In recognition of her contributions to art and culture, she was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2012. Interestingly, her bond with India originated even before her first visit, sparked by her grandfather's diary from his service in the British Army, offering an early glimpse into Indian life that blossomed into a lifelong dedication.
A Full-Circle Moment
With her Indian citizenship now official, this achievement marks a poignant full-circle moment. After spending most of her life considering Kerala her home in heart and spirit, the nation has formally affirmed, "You belong here." This transition underscores a remarkable journey of cultural adoption and heartfelt belonging.
