India is a country that never ceases to amaze visitors with its diverse culture, rich history, and warm hospitality. The latest news in India highlights the state of Kerala once again, as delegates of G20 Sherpas meet and get impressed by the hospitality shown by Kerala tourism. The southern state known as ‘Gods Own Country’ has always been a favourite among tourists for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. The warm and welcoming nature of the locals adds to the charm of Kerala, making it an alluring destination to visit. In this article, we will delve deeper into the G20 Sherpas visit to Kerala and how it highlights the state’s tourism sector.
The recently concluded G20 Sherpas meet in Kumarakom, Kerala, received high praise from international and national delegates for its outstanding hospitality. The state Tourism Department reported that the event was memorable due to the scenic settings of the venue on the banks of Vembanad lake, eco-friendly initiatives, state’s cultural heritage, and the spice-rich local cuisine. The event was held at the Waterscapes Resort which is owned by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) from March 30 to April 2. The event was chaired by the Indian Sherpa Amitabh Kant, and over 120 delegates from G20 member countries, nine invited countries, and various international and regional organisations attended the event.
According to a KTDC release, the delegates were impressed by the extensive arrangements made by a dedicated team of 50 officials from the Tourism Department who were on site during the entire duration of the meet. The Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas also stated that the hosting of such an important conclave in Kumarakom has given a push to Kerala Tourism as a whole.
The delegates also had the opportunity to take a houseboat ride on the picturesque backwaters which they found to be a memorable experience. The venue also became alive with cultural programmes that featured around 1,200 artists, staged a replica of traditional Pooram, boat races on the placid Vembanad lake, and other performances of classical and folk arts. A dance drama showcasing the tale of legendary warrior Unniyarcha was one of the major attractions of the cultural programmes. Directed by filmmaker T K Rajeev Kumar, the ballet was held on a 300 metre-long platform erected on the lake where Mohiniyattam, Kalaripayattu, Theyyam, and Chavittu Nadakam (a folk art) were also staged.
On the concluding day, the iconic Kerala festival ‘Onam’ was recreated, and delegates had the opportunity to participate and experience firsthand the salient features such as flower decorations, onam feast, swing, and a tug-of-war. The release stated that the delegates were highly impressed by the extensive arrangements made by a dedicated team of 50 officials from the Tourism Department who were on site during the entire duration of the meet. The arrangements were at par with global standards.
The holding of this event at Kumarakom has given impetus to Kerala Tourism as a whole. The recent initiatives made by KTDC, which turned the venue into a shining example of sustainable, heritage preserving, and community-centric ‘Responsible Tourism,’ were also widely appreciated. The eco-friendly initiatives taken by the Tourism Department have also been praised. The state Tourism Department has been taking eco-friendly measures and has implemented various waste management systems that have garnered widespread praise.
In conclusion, the G20 Sherpas meeting in Kumarakom, Kerala, was a resounding success, and the state Tourism Department has been praised for its outstanding hospitality, scenic beauty, and eco-friendly measures. This event has given a significant boost to Kerala Tourism as a whole and has opened up new avenues for the state to host international events in the future. Kerala’s hospitality industry has come a long way with the help of such events, and there are high hopes that the sector will continue to grow in the future.
