On January 9th, 2024, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Northern Region Office), organised a conference in Ambala on the ‘Mahabharat Circuit’. This insightful conference was complemented by a familiarisation trip to Kurukshetra, Jyotisar, and Thanesar on January 10.
In addition to the representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the Haryana Tourism Department, and the local administration, the conference saw a diverse gathering of delegates hailing from various parts of the country, including tour operators, travel media professionals, opinion makers, and influencers.
The conference focused on exploring, promoting, and highlighting Kurukshetra and significant locations associated with the Mahabharat. The objective was to position these places as preferred tourist destinations for both domestic and overseas visitors.
While addressing all delegates via a virtual platform, Manisha Saxena, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, GOI, said, “Mahabharat is not just an epic but a way of life. Kurukshetra holds prominent significance in Mahabharat. Over the last few years, the Ministry of Tourism, GOI, in collaboration with Haryana Tourism, has undertaken large-scale development activities targeting better infrastructure and facilities for visitors. The development of the Light and Sound show and a museum at Jyotisar are a few of the latest developments.”
Speaking at the conference, Dr. R.K. Suman, Regional Director North, explained, “The whole idea behind hosting this conference and familiarisation tour was to showcase the rich spiritual heritage that Kurukshetra offered. Stakeholders in the travel industry from all over the country were invited to experience firsthand what Kurukshetra offered and then share it with their client base in their respective markets.”
Dr. Raman Gupta, Joint Managing Director, Haryana Tourism; Rajiv Mehra, President, IATO, P.P. Khanna, President, ADTOI; and Mohan Gurucharandas, Vice President, ISKON, also addressed the gathering and expressed the importance and potential of Kurukshetra.
The endeavour was to create awareness about the tourism potential and religious significance of the area. The officers of the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, Haryana Tourism Department, and travel industry discussed various aspects, including infrastructure, accommodation, tourist amenities, the inflow of tourists to this area, travel and tourism sustainability, responsible tourism, involvement of the local community, sensitisation, and training of the service providers for promotion and marketing of the region.
The delegates were profoundly moved by the serene Brahm Sarovar and the historic Jyotisar. They also had the opportunity to witness the captivating Sound and Light Show at Jyotisar, adding to their cultural experience. The visit extended to include exploration of the Sri Krishna Museum, the Panorama, and the Science Museum, offering a diverse range of insights. Furthermore, the delegates explored Sheikh Chilli’s Tomb, Raja Harsh ka Tila, Bhadra Kali Temple, and Bhishma Kund, gaining a holistic understanding of the cultural and historical tapestry of the region.
