Marielle Wunderink and her van have been drawing attention from locals and tourists alike in Mamallapuram since her arrival here over a month go.
Fishermen, tourists, police and kids gather around trying to steal a peek inside. The Maruti Suzuki Omni van is painted with mermaids, flowers, and a free spirited woman with her hair let down: images that resonate with its owner’s personality. More unusually, it is wrapped in heady notes of sandalwood, cinnamon and jasmine.
“I like to call it my temple on wheels, where I carry my passion all over the country,” says Marielle, settling down at a cafe after a four hour long surf session. “The van is not just home, but also my business on wheels. Besides, all my surfboards and skateboards are stacked on the roof, which allows me to surf anywhere I see a wave break.”
