I am being attacked by ladybugs. They arrive, one by one. They tarry for a bit, getting to know my backpack. Or my jeans. Then they open their red shells and fly away.

I don’t know what it is about this beach that draws the ladybugs. It is a distinctly Indian beach. No bikinis or sun tanners here. Just women in salwar kamizes and men in shirts and swim trunks. And, apparently, camel rides for the kids.

I arrived in Orissa last night. This coastal state to Kolkata’s south is a mix of Oriya and tribal cultures. Here in Puri, a long stretch of beach draws Indian tourists from that city to the north and elsewhere.

Hawkers peddle necklaces made from alleged coral. Village fishermen offer rides on their boats.

And I get to hang out with my ladybug friends.