The Bay Island Kottayam museum never fails to surprise its visitors. Among its many fascinating displays lies a seemingly ordinary fossil plank – but a closer look reveals a story far more captivating. This unassuming piece of wood holds not one, but two remarkable images, seemingly sculpted by nature itself.

On One Side: A Soldier’s Tears Amidst War

One side of the fossil displays a scene in a dark yellow hue, believed to be a depiction of the Kargil War. A valiant Indian soldier stands tall against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas. Three figures representing the enemy stand in opposition. The scene takes a poignant turn as the soldier, with a tear rolling down his cheek, seems to fire the first shot. This image, while seemingly far-fetched, sparks conversation about the human cost of war and the complex emotions soldiers experience.

On the Other Side: Mother Teresa’s Gentle Presence

Turning the fossil over reveals a complete contrast. Bathed in a light yellow hue, a wrinkled face with a veil emerges. This image, readily identified by many visitors, is none other than Mother Teresa, the world-renowned humanitarian. The detail on her face, particularly the wrinkles and the depiction of the veil, is truly remarkable. It’s a testament to the power of nature to create such a recognizable image.

A Spark for Imagination

Museum staff find amusement in testing the visitors’ powers of observation. The question, “Can you name the-famous lady with a wrinkled face and her veil?” often sparks lively discussions. Interestingly, tourists from Albania frequently point out her origin in their country before her move to Calcutta. This interaction highlights the universality of Mother Teresa’s legacy and the power of the image to transcend cultural boundaries.

The Enigmatic Nature of the Fossil

The origin of these images on the fossil remains a mystery. Some believe it’s a case of pareidolia, a psychological phenomenon where the human brain perceives familiar patterns in random stimuli. Others find it too detailed to be a mere coincidence. Regardless of the explanation, the fossil serves as a fascinating conversation starter, prompting visitors to ponder the wonders of nature and the power of human imagination.

A Visit to Remember

The Bay Island Museum’s fossil plank is a unique example of how nature can create unexpected beauty and intrigue. It serves as a reminder to look beyond the surface and appreciate the hidden stories waiting to be discovered. So, on your next visit to the museum, be sure to take a closer look at this extraordinary piece and see what images it conjures for you.