Gujarat’s famous cultural festival ‘Rann Utsav’, that not only showcases the rich traditions and heritage of the state but also the beauty of the vast salt desert, is currently underway in Kutch. The 3-month long event attracts a large number of tourists every year from across the country and the world. This year, Rann Utsav commenced on December 1, 2024 and will go on till February 28, 2025, while the tent city will remain open March, 2025. As New Year approaches, the region is witnessing a huge influx of visitors, who are exploring the famous white salt marshes, a stunning natural spectacle unique to the area. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also extended an invitation to people for visiting this cultural extravaganza. Taking to LinkedIn, he wrote, “Through this post, I am extending my personal invitation to all of you, dynamic, hard-working professionals, and your families to visit Kutch and enjoy the Rann Utsav. This year’s Rann Utsav, which commenced on 1st December 2024, will go on till 28th February 2025, wherein the tent city at Rann Utsav will be open till March 2025. I assure you all that Rann Utsav will be a lifetime experience.” A special invitation to all of you!https://t.co/oK4rQmQqon — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 Following this appeal, tourists from all corners of the country are flocking to the Kutch region to experience the mesmerising salt desert. The administration has made special arrangements to cater to the growing number of visitors, including a Volvo bus service from Bhuj to Kutch for easier access. Talking to IANS, two sisters, Manu and Pragati, visiting Kutch for the first time, shared their excitement: "We came here today to explore Gujarat. We are feeling like we're walking in snow! The area is so mesmerising that we plan to stay here longer. It's a must-have experience." Anuradha Sharma from Punjab expressed her amazement at the sight of the Rann Utsav, saying "I had heard about such places, but now I can finally experience it. Kutch is an incredibly beautiful place, unlike any other in the country—or even the world. For anyone seeking an adventure, this is the place to visit." Amit Gupta, the manager of the Rannotsav Tent City, confirmed that they are fully prepared for the large number of visitors expected for the New Year’s celebrations. "Our Prime Minister had appealed for people to visit here, and they are coming in thousands. Hotels are fully booked, and this has created more job opportunities for the locals. It is important for people to learn about Kutch’s culture and history." The annual Rann Utsav transforms the Great Rann of Kutch’s vast, pristine white sands into a cultural haven, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in local heritage, music, art, and cuisine. Dhordo, a village where Rann Utsav is celebrated, was named the 2023 Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). (With inputs from IANS)
31 December,2024 10:30 AM IST | Kutch, Gujarat | mid-day online correspondentDiljit Dosanjh is all set to perform at the last show of his Dil-Luminati India Tour on December 31 at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana. The city was not included in the initial schedule and the grand finale here was announced on December 23. If you are planning to ring in the new year with this concert in the city, you can expand your itinerary to explore various cultural and culinary treasures Ludhiana has to offer. Here are five places and activities you can explore: Punjab Agricultural University Museum This museum stands as a symbol of the cultural heritage of Punjab. It houses rural artefacts from different eras, giving a glimpse into the essence of rural life and agricultural development in the state. Gurudwaras The city is home to many sacred gurudwaras, including Gurudwara Mehdiana Sahib, Gurudwara Shri Manji Sahib, Gurudwara Nanaksar Sahib Jagraon, among others. These religious and spiritual sites lend the city its essence. Rakh Bagh Park This is a recreational spot in the city but is quite famous among tourists. A toy train also runs through the park, making it more attractive for travellers, especially children. Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum This museum pays tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in various battles and wars. It has 12 galleries, and a light and sound show narrating the story of Indian independence is also held here. Culinary exploration Ludhiana is famous for its traditional Punjabi cuisine. You can explore famous dishes like chhole bhature and kulche, stuffed paranthas, tandoori chicken, samosa, chaat, among others. Kipps market is a good spot for both shopping and food. Also Read: Planning to attend Coldplay Ahmedabad concert? Here are 5 places to visit in the city About Diljit Dosanjh Ludhiana concert The concert will take place on New Year’s Eve i.e., on December 31, 2024. As mentioned on the Zomato website, the gates will open at 7 PM and the show will begin at 8:30 PM, continuing till 12:00 AM on January 1, 2025. The venue for the show is Punjab Agricultural University at Ferozepur Road, Ludhiana. The tickets went live on December 24 and were sold out within 10 minutes. Interestingly, Dosanjh has a special connection with Ludhiana. He spent a major part of his childhood here and also started his music career in the city. So, it will essentially be a ‘ghar vaapsi’ for him.
30 December,2024 10:54 PM IST | Ludhiana | mid-day online correspondentAs the world embraces new ways of exploring, The Gypsy Travel Festival is all set to take place on January 11 - 12 in Mumbai in Bandra Kurla Complex at Jio World Drive. It will be the third edition of an Indian curated travel showcase offering travellers a gateway to the world’s most enchanting adventures. The vibrant two-day celebration, curated by the Gypsy Travel Network, blends together travel, culture and global cuisine in a single setting, allowing you to seamlessly plan, customise and book your dream vacation all in one go. The festival serves as a unique platform, fostering meaningful connections between key players in the travel industry and eager explorers, offering personalised guidance for those seeking adventures beyond the ordinary. Attendees can immerse themselves in virtual reality tours to dream destinations, participate in interactive workshops like perfume-making and origami, enjoy live performances and bespoke experiences artistically recreated to bring alive the richness of global traditions. With exclusive festival-only offers that simplify the booking process, expert insights from industry leaders and over 300 travel products exhibited across the 7 continents, attendees will leave with personalised inspiration for their next vacation, at unbeatable prices. Speaking about the upcoming edition, Sumit Lulla, festival director, stated, “Travel has evolved beyond simply ticking off destinations; it is now about discovering new places, meeting remarkable people, connecting with diverse cultures and crafting unforgettable stories along the way. Our goal is to build a thriving community of aspiring travellers through both online and offline mediums, making us India’s most trusted source of information to elevate your next trip.” Today, India is witnessing an exhilarating revival in travel, holding the top spot in the APAC Travel Confidence Index. In this dynamic setting, The Gypsy Travel Festival emerges as more than just a source of inspiration—it serves as a pivotal platform for turning travel aspirations into reality. This is your opportunity to turn those long-held desires into unforgettable adventures that will stay with you forever. Just in time for the summer break, whether you are a seasoned traveller or planning your next escape, The Gypsy Travel Festival is your trusted guide every step of the way.
30 December,2024 07:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a proud moment for India, Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old student from Navy Children School in Mumbai, displayed stunning determination and skill to create history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Demonstrating extraordinary mountaineering prowess, the teen adventurer has conquered Africa (Mt Kilimanjaro), Europe (Mt Elbrus), Australia (Mt Kosciuszko), South America (Mt Aconcagua), North America (Mt Denali), Asia (Mt Everest) and the latest one in Antarctica (Mt Vinson). The young Everester reached the summit of Mt Vinson along with her father, Commander S. Karthikeyan, on December 24 at 17:20 hrs Chilean Standard Time to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, the Indian Navy informed. The Indian Navy congratulated Karthikeyan and her father on accomplishing this momentous milestone. Taking to their official handle on X, SpokespersonNavy, they wrote, "Kaamya Karthikeyan, class XII student at @IN_NCS Mumbai, scripts history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale seven highest peaks across seven continents." "The Indian Navy congratulates Kaamya Karthikeyan and her father on accomplishing this momentous milestone," the caption added. Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan, class XII student at @IN_NCSMumbai, scripts history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale seven highest peaks across seven continents - Africa (Mt. Kilimanjaro), Europe (Mt. Elbrus), Australia (Mt. Kosciuszko), South America (Mt. Aconcagua),… pic.twitter.com/GyC2bE8LCK — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) December 29, 2024 Navy Children School in Mumbai also congratulated the 17-year-old and posted, "Breaking barriers and reaching new heights! Kaamya Karthikeyan, Class XII, Navy Children School, Mumbai, becomes the youngest female in the world to conquer the Seven Summits -- the highest peaks on all seven continents! A moment of immense pride for NCS Mumbai!" Karthikeyan said she was 7 when she took her first trek in Uttarakhand. She scaled the peaks over 7 years on these dates: Mt Everest (8849 m): May 20, 2024 Mt Aconcagua (6962 m): February 2, 2020 Mt Denali (6190 m): June 28, 2022 Mt Kilimanjaro (5685 m): October 25, 2017 Mt Elbrus (5642 m): June 14, 2018 Mt Vinson (4892 m): December 24, 2024 Mt Kosciuszko (2228 m): October 23, 2018 Her accomplishments have not only earned her the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Shakti Puraskar, India’s highest national honour for young achievers in 2021 but also accolades from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Mann ki Baat. She is now attempting the Explorer's Grand Slam, an adventurer goal to reach the North Pole and the South Pole, as well as climb the Seven Summits. (With inputs from IANS)
30 December,2024 02:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndia has been establishing a strong foothold in global tourism, attracting travellers from around the world to witness the natural and cultural beauty that the country has to offer. 2024 was no different with new inaugurations, global campaigns and fairs, accelerating the growth of tourism in the country. Inauguration of the country's first sunken museum at the Humayun's Tomb complex in Delhi, launch of a global campaign that seeks to make diaspora members ambassadors of Incredible India and an international mart at Assam's Kaziranga were some of the highlights of the Indian tourism sector in 2024. With the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj next year and a large number of pilgrims and tourists expected to gather in the holy city for the religious congregation, the tourism ministry is also eyeing to showcase and celebrate the cultural diversity of the country, aiming to draw both domestic and international tourists. Various cultural programmes and exhibitions are being organised to accomplish this purpose. Held every 12 years, the Mahakumbh 2025 will be from January 13 to February 26. Also Read: From travel to health, know all about the special provisions at Mahakumbh 2025 Government initiatives to boost tourism in 2024 Senior BJP leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat took charge as the Union tourism minister after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, succeeding G Kishan Reddy who was allotted the portfolio of coal. The year 2024 also saw the launch of 'Chalo India', a global campaign that seeks to make Indian diaspora members ambassadors of Incredible India. The campaign has been implemented in the spirit of 'jan bhagidari' to encourage Indian diaspora members to invite their five "non-Indian friends to travel to India every year". In his address at an event hosted on World Tourism Day in New Delhi on September 27, Shekhawat had said that under this campaign, one lakh foreign tourists would be exempted from paying visa fee in the coming times. At the same event, he also announced that the government would soon release a "dedicated master list" of tourist sites for their holistic development, and asserted that this would be a new effort to bring unbelievable sites of 'Incredible India' on a global platform. Shekhawat had also announced the launch of the initiative 'Paryatan Mitra and Paryatan Didi' which aims to elevate the overall experience for tourists, by having them meet 'tourist-friendly' people who are "proud ambassadors and storytellers for their destination”. This initiatives spans 50 tourism destinations across the country including Sri Vijaya Puram (earlier Port Blair) in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bodh Gaya in Bihar, Ahmedabad and Kevadia in Gujarat, Srinagar, Ranchi and Delhi. The 2024 Union Budget gave a major push to spiritual tourism, with funds allocated for the development of several temples and temple corridors. This year saw spiritual destinations like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Amarnath, etc., welcome large numbers of tourists. Also Read: Ayodhya, Varanasi, Amarnath Yatra: What’s fuelling the rise of spiritual tourism in India? Tourism mart in Kaziranga Another key highlight was the 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) held in Kaziranga from November 26 to November 29. The Kaziranga National Park (KNP), home to the world's largest one-horned rhinoceros population, was the showpiece of the latest edition of the ITM. Located in Golaghat, Nagaon and Sonitpur districts of Assam, the KNP was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. This year is a "golden period" for the sector one can say, as the ITM happened months after Moidams -- the mound-burial system of the Ahom dynasty in Assam -- in Charaideo district was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, and then KNP completed 50 years as a national park, Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Tourism, in the ministry had said. Also Read: As 'Moidans' from Assam enters UNESCO World Heritage List, here's a look at all heritage sites in India India’s first sunken museum In July, the country's first sunken museum at the site of Humayun's Tomb complex -- a UNESCO World Heritage Site -- where the story of the Mughal emperor and lesser-known facets of his life comes alive, was inaugurated, magnifying the architectural and heritage allure of the 16th century mausoleum. Shekhawat had inaugurated the new museum in the presence of Prince Rahim Aga Khan. "Our cultural heritage is one of our greatest assets," Shekhawat had said in his address at the inauguration ceremony. Foreign tourist arrivals in India The ministry in December shared some data on foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) and foreign exchange earnings from tourism in 2023. The number of FTAs in India during 2023 rose to 95 lakh from 77 lakh in 2014, registering a growth of 23.96 per cent, it said. FTAs in India during January-June period in 2024 stood at nearly 4.78 million, with Bangladesh and the US being the top two source countries, according to official data issued by the Tourism Ministry. (With inputs from PTI)
30 December,2024 01:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Kashmir experiences peak winter season, it is experiencing intense snowfall and is covered in a thick white blanket. While snowfall is a major attraction for tourists during this time of the year, it has done more than just make this place more beautiful. Kashmir received the season’s highest snowfall on Saturday, which caused trouble for locals and tourists alike, disrupting essential services, traffic movement, and flights. The disruption continued on Sunday although administrative efforts restored electricity in most parts of the Valley. Transportation issues If you have planned a trip to ‘Paradise on Earth’ this winter, especially in December or January, it is essential to know that there might be a possibility of flights or trains getting cancelled, and roads being blocked. Srinagar-Jammu national highway, Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh highway and all roads through mountain passes remained closed for the second day on Sunday. Additionally, roads and highways remained highly slippery due to frozen layers of snow left behind after clearance machines cleared most of the fallen snow on Saturday. This prevented traffic movement on Sunday morning as people preferred to remain indoors to protect themselves. Flights to Srinagar International Airport were also cancelled on Saturday, and the airport officials said the situation was being reviewed for restoration of flights. Also Read: Season's heaviest snow disrupts air, rail, road traffic in Jammu and Kashmir; rain grip rest of north India Kashmir weather The region received heavy snowfall and rain this weekend. The Meteorological (MeT) office has forecast generally cloudy weather with occasional sunshine in Jammu and Kashmir during the next 24 hours. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the local MeT department told IANS, “Two Western disturbances (WDs) are expected to affect the weather system on January 1 and January 3. The first WD is likely to be weak, but the second WD is expected to be of moderate intensity that will cause snow in the Valley and rain/snow in the Jammu division.” The WD is the name given to an extratropical storm in the Mediterranean Sea that causes snowfall and rain in India, Pakistan and Nepal. Srinagar recorded minus 0.2, Gulmarg minus 8.5 and Pahalgam minus 8 as the minimum temperature on Sunday. Kashmir is currently experiencing Chillai Kalan – a 40-day period of intense cold starting from December 21 and continuing till January 29. Health issues One common ailment during winter months in Kashmir has been fractured limbs caused by slippery pedestrian malls, etc., in the Valley. This results in a heavy patient load at various hospitals. Doctors at the cardiology department of Srinagar Medical College have issued an advisory to the general public cautioning them against heart attacks and heart failures caused by exposure to cold conditions. People of high-risk age groups have been asked not to expose themselves to extremes of cold as this coupled with chest infections can cause deaths due to heart failure during winter months. (With inputs from IANS)
29 December,2024 01:14 PM IST | Kashmir | mid-day online correspondentThe temple town of Ayodhya is gearing up for a massive influx of devotees and tourists as the new year approaches, marking the end of the first English calendar year since the grand consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple was held on January 22. With nearly all accommodations in Ayodhya and neighbouring Faizabad fully booked, the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has extended 'darshan' timings for the devotees and made extensive arrangements to manage the anticipated crowd. "We are ready to welcome the devotees this new year. All our rooms have been booked in advance till January 15," Ankit Mishra, owner of a local hotel in Ayodhya, said.When last checked on Saturday morning, online booking platforms showed rooms still available at some hotels and lodges, even though a few establishments are charging upwards of Rs 10,000 per night due to the surge in demand. Ayodhya has witnessed a spike in religious tourism since the consecration ceremony earlier this year, and while the Hindu new year in 'Chaitra' (March-April) holds traditional significance, the English new year is also seeing a rise in devotional fervour."A large number of devotees visit religious sites and offer prayers on January 1, seeking the blessings of Ram Lalla at the start of the year," Ramakant Tiwari, a local priest, said. To ensure smooth crowd management and security, Ayodhya Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajkaran Nayyar said, "There will be robust security arrangements at the Ram Temple, Hanumangarhi, Lata Chowk, Guptar Ghat, Surajkund, and other popular sites." The temple trust has also made comprehensive preparations to handle the swelling crowd, particularly between December 30 and the first two weeks of January.A trust representative said, "Extended 'darshan' timings and strategic arrangements have been made to ensure a seamless experience for all the devotees." The consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hundreds of people from all walks of life, marked an upsurge in tourism activities in Ayodhya as well as Uttar Pradesh. According to the state tourism department, 32.18 crore tourists visited Uttar Pradesh in 2022, which rose to 32.98 crore in the first six months of 2024.The increase in tourist footfalls has been attributed to the significant contributions of Ayodhya and Kashi (Varanasi), the Uttar Pradesh government said in a statement last week. "Following the inauguration of the grand Ram temple in January last year, Uttar Pradesh saw a significant rise in tourist influx within the first six months. In January alone, a record-breaking seven crore tourists visited, marking the highest number of visitors to any place in a single month," the government said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
28 December,2024 03:44 PM IST | Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) | PTIIt’s that time of the year when you are flooded with messages about planning a Goa trip. Known for its nightlife and beaches, the coastal paradise sees a surge in tourists in December, especially between Christmas and NYE. What seems to be an innocent getaway to visitors, often turns into a week-long ruckus for Goans who are increasingly being subjected to the perils of overtourism. Excessive noise, littering, and drunk driving are some of the issues exacerbated during the peak season as a chunk of tourists mistake Goa for an adult amusement park where ‘anything goes’ instead of a residential place that commands respect. Major cities such as Barcelona, and Venice have implemented tourist taxes, and regulations on short-term rentals to combat the global problem, but many Indian cities continue to be subjected to the unrestrained impact of mass tourism. While the satisfaction level of visitors varies, facts remain. Has the Goan landscape changed beyond recognition in the last decade? Yes. Has noise pollution increased? Yes. Have many local establishments been forced to shut down? Yes. Each visitor can take steps to minimise the environmental impact of their travels and indulge in behaviours that can contribute to sustainable practices while respecting the local culture and environment. We asked Goans, who have lived in the coastal paradise for generations, to share an etiquette guide for tourists who wish to travel responsibly and make conscious choices. If you have at any point in time sworn your allegiance to Goa, then please pay close attention to the beings who will continue to live there, years beyond you’ve left. It is time to love and respect Goa for not what we perceive it to be, but for what it is. 1. Embrace sustainable practices The natural beauty of Goa draws many tourists from congested cities around the year. We must ensure we minimise the environmental impact of our travels. “Tourists should be responsible, and attempt to minimise their carbon footprint. This can be done by rejecting single-use plastics and carrying a refillable water bottle, refusing plastic straws, not having linen changed every day, and staying in hotels that provide liquid toiletries in refillable packs,” says Jack Sukhija, president, the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa. The discarding of uncontrolled plastics, breaking of glass bottles on beaches, and littering across natural hotspots are commonplace issues in Goa today. Even in places where you may not spot a dustbin, please refrain from littering, and carry your trash back to where it can be disposed of safely. Instead of using private transfers to/from the airport, guests can check if their hotels provide shared transfers as well. 2. Respect privacy The ancient proverb of ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do’ holds but seems to be forgotten in Goa, poses Sanjeev Sardesai, esteemed heritage promoter and founder of Hands-on-Historians. Observing and respecting the local customs and traditions of Goa should follow the basic tenet of decency, but is often compromised. “Observing the behavioural attitude of fellow Indians and foreigners, this adage seems to vanish in oblivion in Goa. Honour and respect towards local culture are not seen in visitors, in general here. For Goan families, privacy is a sacrosanct priority and no one must intrude on the same, as is happening in Fontainhas,” he shares. Many tourists seem to forget that while the Fontainhas in Panjim is a vibrant neighbourhood lined with colonial gems, it is also where families reside. “Respecting the privacy of the local community as well their sentiments should be the default behaviour,” believes Panjim resident Sukhija. While it is okay to walk along the beautiful narrow streets, tourists should be conscious of not entering and peeking into private spaces. Sardesai concludes, “The ethos of our country Atithi Devo Bhava cannot be expected to be one-sided, and needs to be reciprocated by the atithis. If visitors behave like visitors, and respect the customs and traditions, the question of negativity towards them, by locals would not arise!” 3. Support local businesses One of the most central aspects of sustainable tourism is supporting local businesses. Aakash Madgavkar, vice president (North Goa) of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, lists five ways that tourists can support locals: Inquire directly with local businesses: Get information and make purchases directly from local vendors rather than relying on third-party sources. This will ensure you get correct information and reliance on larger vendors will reduce. Provide constructive feedback: Share your experiences (both positive and negative) directly with the businesses you interact with. Instead of online reviews, consider sharing on-the-spot feedback, which will aid in the swift resolution of issues, and improve your experience in real-time. Spread the word: While we are often quick to share our negative experiences, recommend authentic local businesses to other travellers through word-of-mouth and detailed online reviews. Heritage local stays: For those seeking an immersive experience, look into the varied heritage stays across Goa which offer a glimpse into the lives of locals. 4. Mindful consumption A Goan vacation is seldom without an indulgent night out traversing award-winning bars and busy venues. While the mindset in Goa of tourists coincides with ‘anything goes’, please be mindful of alcohol consumption and its potential impact on your behaviour and safety. “Visitors have created many falsified myths related to Goans, and their relation with alcohol - thanks to Bollywood! Abusive behaviours under the influence of alcohol and drugs in public are just the tip of the problematic iceberg, faced by a Goan from tourists. Many tourists visiting Goa for a short time, act as though they own Goa, and throw laws to the wind,” says Sardesai. Tourists must ensure that they abide by local rules and regulations so excessive noise is not created and nobody is subjected to harassment. The hospitality veteran pushes for a bold positive change, “Backed by effective and strong-spine action by policy-makers and players in the hospitality industry, an aggressive change in the narrative of Goa is the need of the hour.” He further highlights the dangerous issue of drunk driving across Goa, “Overindulgence has tragically translated as bad statistics of increasing road fatalities and cases of road rage by tourists in rental car and bike accidents, all over Goa.” Drinking and driving is an accident waiting to happen, please opt for using taxis, or have a designated driver among your group who can ensure the safety of all on the streets. 5. Give Goan cuisine a try As Goa evolves into one of the premier gastronomy hubs of the country, countless eateries open each year aiming to serve the growing number of tourists. “To cater to the demands of tourists, a variety of restaurants have sprung up across Goa. If you look at their menus, you will hardly find Goan delicacies because many tourists stick to the kind of food they eat at home, or are used to. The lopsided demand has affected several old establishments that are struggling to survive amidst heightened competition from bigger hospitality players. In recent years, many have changed their menus, and the flavour profiles of dishes to serve tourists,” says techie Shalakha Shetye Saudagar. The Margao native tells us that several dishes she grew up eating are slowly vanishing from menus, and wishes tourists would be open to trying Goan food beyond the fish thaali. “Historically, Goa has been home to multiple communities who have intermingled. The rich local cuisine is not limited to seafood, but also includes a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes which the tourists can try,” she suggests. 6. Experience Goa beyond beaches People yearn to be loved for all their complexities, and layers of beauty—places are no different. While Goan beaches attract tourists, locals like Saudagar urge tourists to look at the year-round cultural experiences that the state has to offer. “From local celebrations including Carnival (February) and Sao Joao (June) to interdisciplinary festivals like the Serendipity Arts Festival (December), Goa has year-round festivities that will help tourists understand and appreciate local culture,” she poses. Engaging respectfully with locals will help foster positive relationships, and will allow you to dispel negative stereotypes about Goans. Tourists can also explore numerous historical and religious sites, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus which is a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site. 7. Appreciate ‘Susegad’ Goa is synonymous with a relaxed pace of life, this is rooted in a concept called ‘susegad’ which comes from the Portuguese word, ‘sussegado’ meaning quiet. Sardesai explains, “Goa and its people are known for its ‘sussegado’ lifestyle - it means Goans are content and happy with what they have. Overzealous greed was alien to them and overdoing anything, was unheard of.” Consider this to be more of a pro-tip than a guideline, when in Goa: Slow down and enjoy the leisurely pace of life. Embrace the relaxed Goan lifestyle and avoid rushing or over-scheduling your trip.
28 December,2024 11:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalMahakumbh 2025 is going to set a world record this time in many ways. This time preparations have been made by the Mela Authority to set 4 different world records in different categories, while there is every possibility of setting a world record for the maximum number of devotees gathering together in a single event. Along with this, a world record is also going to be set for eye testing and distribution of spectacles. For the first time, over five lakh individuals will undergo eye examinations simultaneously, with three lakh spectacles distributed during the event. A grand "Netra Kumbh" has been set up in Sector 5 near Nagvasuki to facilitate this initiative, spanning approximately 10 acres. Scheduled for inauguration on January 5, the facility will provide free eye check-ups to devotees, with follow-up surgeries available at nearby hospitals post-event. Speaking to ANI, Dr Ranjan Bajpai organising committee member said, "Netra Kumbh will be inaugurated on January 5. The inauguration will be done by the hands of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj of Juna Akhara, the chief guest, while Gaurang Prabhu Ji Maharaj will be the special guest, and Sangh's co-worker Dr. Krishna Gopal Ji will be the keynote speaker." Bajpai further added, "In the last Netra Kumbh, a large number of devotees were tested for their eyes. This time, the number of participants has doubled. This time the target is three lakh spectacles and five lakh OPDs. The target is 10 thousand OPDs in a day. Extensive arrangements have been made for this." This time Netra Kumbh will create a world record. "Last time it made its place in the Limca Book of World Records and this time an attempt will be made to get it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. A committee will be formed for this, which will ensure further action," Bajpai told ANI. Bajpai further added that we have tied up with 240 big hospitals from all over India. Doctors from different provinces of India are coming here to provide their services. Our effort is to make people get their eyesight back. Bajpai said that arrangements had been made for the stay and food of the doctors. Whoever has come from whichever province will be provided with the food of that province. 40 four-bed dormitories have been made for the doctors, while there is a separate dormitory arrangement for women doctors as well. A total of 140 doctors will stay in these dormitories. Apart from this, 16-bed dormitories have been built for pilgrims, while 8-bed dormitories have been built for workers. Rajesh Kumar Singh, responsible for crowd management, elaborated on the infrastructure. "Netra Kumbh has been built on about 10 acres. A total of 11 hangars have been built in it. Last time there were only 5 hangars." "An eye examination will be done here in a systematic manner. A big hangar has been built, where all the devotees will gather. After this, they will be sent to two different OPD chambers, where they will be able to consult doctors after getting their registration done," Rajesh Kumar Singh said. Doctors chambers have been built behind the registration, in which there will be 4-4 doctors and 10-10 optometrists. "There will be a medicine counter and a referral counter here. Referrals will be made for glasses from here. A separate block for glasses has been made. Like last time, this time it has also been ensured that people can get very good quality glasses. This time we have hired only one vendor for the distribution of glasses and have requested him to give the best quality glasses. This vendor provides his glasses to almost all the big companies," Rajesh Kumar Singh added. Sunil Kumar Singh from Delhi, a part of the organising committee, said, "A camp has also been set up for those who want to donate their eyes in Netra Kumbh. He said that the way Emperor Harshvardhan Ji used to donate everything in Prayagraj, inspired by that, donors from all over the state and the country came here. We have about 1.5 crore blind people here. Among these, there are many people whose corneas have been damaged. They need corneas. "Sri Lanka, a country much smaller than us, donates corneas to the entire world. We have resolved to set up an eye donation camp here, allowing those who wish to donate their eyes to give the gift of sight to others. In the last Netra Kumbh, over 11,000 people donated their eyes," Singh added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
28 December,2024 10:05 AM IST | Mahakumbh Nagar (Uttar Pradesh) | ANI2024 was an exciting year for travel enthusiasts as new and refreshing experiences took centrestage. Both domestic and global destinations created anticipation and excitement among tourists. As this year comes to an end and travellers await new journeys and adventures in 2025, we take a look at the most trending and popular destinations of 2024 i.e., most searched destinations of the year, based on the data released by travel portal Booking.com. Trending domestic and international destinations Goa emerged as the top searched destination in 2024 experiencing a 200 per cent increase in flight searches year-over-year. Beyond metros such as New Delhi and Kolkata, Indian travellers embraced cultural and spiritual exploration with destinations like Amritsar, which witnessed a 106 per cent increase in searches compared to 2023. International destinations like Abu Dhabi, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, London and Bangkok remained popular choices among Indian travellers with flight searches reflecting a year-over-year surge of 90-150 per cent. Top 10 most searched destinations based on flight searches by Indian travellers (Jan-Nov 2024) Goa, India Abu Dhabi, UAE Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Colombo, Sri Lanka Melbourne, Australia Kolkata, India Amritsar, India London, United Kingdom Bangkok, Thailand New Delhi, India Favourite offbeat destinations In 2024, travellers were eager to explore offbeat destinations that were earlier not on their radar. Shahdag in Azerbaijan emerged as the top searched international destination based on accommodation searches in 2024. With Indian travellers seeking new experiences, unexplored international destinations like Stepantsminda (212 per cent), Baku (203 per cent) and Tromso (185 per cent) also emerged as popular choices. Domestically, travellers sought authentic experiences with destinations such as Perumbakkam, Pangala and Tekkumuri gaining popularity. Embracing immersive experiences Experiential travel took precedence in 2024, with travellers looking to embrace meaningful and immersive experiences and journeys that allowed them to experience different cultures, heritage and culinary delights. In 2024, top searched attractions on Booking.com included iconic Indian experiences like the private car tour of the Taj Mahal from Delhi and the Old Delhi food and heritage walk. With sustainable travel on the rise, e-biking experience on the beautiful island of Divar in old Goa was also among the top 3 of most searched attractions in 2024. Reflecting on these insights, Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com said, “As we step into the new year, it is interesting to see how travel preferences have evolved. With the popularity of destinations like Shahdag and Baku in Azerbaijan or Gaudauri in Georgia rising, we see a shift towards offbeat adventures. Improved connectivity, infrastructure and better visa regulations are making travel more accessible, convenient and exciting for everyone.” Also Read: From cricket to F1: Why Indians are packing bags for sports in 2025
27 December,2024 08:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentChristmas ushers in the most wonderful time of the year in the US, kicking off a season of holiday festivities, events, celebrations, and more. Across the country, various holiday pop-up markets and other shopping opportunities showcase unique items, ideal for gifting loved ones. Here's an easy guide to explore the streets of Philadelphia, its countryside, and New Orleans to discover unique holiday shopping experiences in the US. PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia organises various pop-up markets that bring festive charm to the city during the holiday season. Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market Get some holiday shopping done at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market through January 1 of 2025 at Dilworth Park. It is a great place to get some holiday shopping done. Dozens of local artisans sell holiday-inspired crafts, gifts, food items, and other goods at this market. Enjoy food, confections, and local beer from stands on the West side of historic City Hall. The Countryside of Philadelphia Just a short drive from the city of Philadelphia, lies The Countryside of Philadelphia, offering a vast array of holiday celebrations and holiday shopping opportunities. This year more than ever, shopping small and local is the anthem for the holiday season for which The countryside of Philadelphia is the perfect shopping destination. Brandywine Christmas VillageThe Brandywine Christmas Village holiday magic, spread across various dates in December, includes food trucks, beer, wine, hot cider, photos with Santa, fire pits, smores, hot cocoa, a bounce house, face painting, 30+ vendors and more. Kennett Square Holiday Village MarketKennett Square Holiday Village Market at The Creamery recreates the atmosphere of the German Christkindlmarkt, which traces its history back to the Middle Ages when local tradespeople sold their handcrafted wares, local food and drink giving the market in each town its own distinctive flavour and character. For the first two weekends in December every year, the Kennett Square Holiday Village Market brings dozens of artisans and vintage vendors selling beautiful and unique handcrafted items. Third Annual Holiday BazaarJoin in for a weekend highlighting the many talented local artists and makers of the community at the Third Annual Holiday Bazaar in December. Browse displays of items perfect for holiday gifting while enjoying your favourite wines. New Orleans New Orleans is not far behind in celebrating the holidays with charming pop-ups and markets offering unique gifts and local items for your shopping list. Little Flea: HOLA Holiday Edition at Hotel St. Vincent Hotel St. Vincent will host Little Flea: HOLA Holiday Edition, an exciting holiday shopping set-up with vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and furniture to antiques, textiles, and more. The French MarketOne of the most iconic places in New Orleans, although not technically a holiday pop-up market, has a year-round showcase of local art in its flea market section. During the holiday season, the market is adorned with beautiful garlands and green wreaths, in theme with the festivities, and adding to the ever-glamorous French Quarter where the market is located. Club your shopping spree with delicious food from vendors at the market to experience the holidays in New Orleans like a local.
26 December,2024 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
