Deshaj Darshan Samvaad Satra-2024

Swami Rishabhdevanand, a Shreekrishnayan Saint, Adarsh Gaushala, Gwalior: He highlighted that while we often celebrate famous personalities and places from the internet or TV, we overlook the rich folk art, culture, nature, and history of our own region. He pointed out the misrepresentation of Gwalior-Chambal as a hub of dacoits/bandits in films, whereas it is home to many Indian Army warriors and Traditional Organic Farmers. He advocated for discussions on the clean Chambal River, Gwalior’s cow culture, the unique earthen Harsi dam, and local sports heroes to give them due recognition. The ‘Deshaj Darshan’ initiative aims to change this narrative, starting from Gwalior-Chambal and extending to other regions. He also advocated to give respectful recognition to the local heroes.

Dr. Ishwar Chandra Karkare, a renowned musician and Ayurvedacharya: He said Lord Shankar is believed to be the origin of both yoga and Indian classical music, which aims for spiritual enlightenment. The first music school in India was established by Raja Mansingh in 1545, with Baiju Bawra becoming its principal in 1570. Baiju Bawra stayed in Gwalior fort from 1570 to 1600, teaching Mrignayani and competing with Tansen, both disciples of Swami Haridas. Classical music’s popularity declined over time until Shrimant Daulat Rao Shinde Maharaj revived it in 1820, learning from Mahipati Nath Maharaj and Ustad Kader Baksh. He started the Gwalior gharana, bringing Hassu, Haddu, and Nathu Khan to Gwalior and providing them with significant support. The tradition spread to Agra, Baroda, and other places. UNESCO has declared Gwalior as ‘The City of Music,’ and it boasts places like Tansen Samadhi, Behat, Sarod Ghar, and the Tansen Music Festival for tourists to explore the region’s rich musical heritage.

Dr. Manoj Jain, Environmentalist and social worker, Bhind: He said Chambal offers immense tourism opportunities with its well-preserved natural environment, thanks to the absence of illegal excavation and pollution. The National Chambal (Gharial) Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in conserving species like crocodiles, gharials, and Gangetic dolphins. The region attracts migratory birds from North Europe and Asia, making it ideal for environmental tourism. Chambal’s rural life remains authentic, reflecting the saying ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’. It’s a haven for wildlife lovers, photographers, bird watchers, environmental experts, and adventurers. Tourism here will benefit both visitors and the region’s image.

Prof. G. Singhaiah, Academician, North East Hill University, Shillong: He said he is originally from Andhra Pradesh and now a working at NEHU, Shillong and experiencing the ‘deshaj darshan’ (indigenous philosophy) of the Northeast. The simple, nature-based life and the warmth of its people stand out. Guests are welcomed with tea, paan, and a strong sense of belonging, without gender discrimination. In states like Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Nagaland, there is a deep respect for nature and humans. The misconception that Naga people are harsh is unfounded—they live contentedly with minimal resources, embodying the principle of ‘voluntary poverty’ as advocated by Lord Shri Ram and Mahatma Gandhi. The lifestyle of the Northeast encourages us to reflect on our own lives and our impact on the environment. As tourists, we should connect with nature and people, fulfilling the true purpose of indigenous philosophy.

Deepa Dixit, Ragini Foundation: She said Madhya Pradesh Tourism is working on rural tourism and safe tourism for women, especially in the Chambal region. The rural tourism project introduced ‘rural homestay’ to local communities in villages like Ainti, Mitawali, and Rithaura Kalan. After significant effort, 14 homestays were built and are now hosting domestic and international guests. These homestays are registered with major websites and travel portals. To enhance the tourist experience, activities like visits to agricultural fields, potter’s wheel experiences, and cow dung product production have been developed. Women have received training in various skills such as handicrafts, guiding, cooking, and housekeeping. Most are now employed or self-employed near tourist destinations, contributing to the local economy.

Kailash Parashar, an encyclopedia of Sahariya tribe, Sheopur: He said, Sahariyas, a simple and content tribal society, mainly reside in Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh. Their unique folk culture attracts researchers from around the world. The local government has built a museum in Sheopur fort to showcase their life. Tourist interest in Sheopur has increased recently, partly due to African leopards in Kuno National Park. This benefits the local community, as tourists can learn from the Sahariyas’ happy, resourceful lifestyle. Their food, folk songs, music, marriage traditions, festivals, and deities are all unique, contributing significantly to the indigenous philosophy.

Dr. Chandra Shekhar Barua, IITTM: As a leading tourist guide trainer and academician of tourism, he emphasize the vast tourism potential in the region, especially in its rich heritage and historical sites. The unique and hospitable rural life adds to its charm. Educating local youth in tourism skills is crucial to attract domestic and international tourists and showcase the heritage. Familiarity with the area and strong communication skills are essential. By learning how to welcome and interact with tourists, local youth can create livelihoods in tourism. Tour guides play a vital role in providing information, facilities, and security, making this field an important career option for them..

Puresh Kumar, GCCI, New Delhi: He discussed cow tourism and how it can make cows self-reliant by integrating them into tourism. Highlighting the efforts at Adarsh Gaushala in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, he noted that this initiative is set to provide new directions to rural, animal husbandry, and agricultural communities across the country. Similar action plans are underway in other regions. In Tirupati Balaji, cow dung and flowers are used to produce incense sticks and over 400 other products. This promotes cow products and spreads cow culture. Through indigenous philosophy, we can enhance cow darshan.

Prof. S.K. Dwivedi, Jiwaji University, Gwalior: He highlighted that tourism is one of the world’s largest industries, supporting various sectors. Rural tourism is crucial in India, attracting global visitors seeking to experience Indian culture and village life. He emphasized the importance of preserving culture, heritage, and history for future pride and tourist attraction. The Archaeological Survey of India and the State Archaeological Department work to protect historical and cultural monuments. The region boasts precious heritage sites like Pawaya (Padmavat), Mitawali, Bateshwar, Kutwar, Peshwa Samadhi in Alampur, Seondha, Surwaya, Narwar, Ranighati, Noorabad, etc. representing indigenous philosophy and worth preserving.

Uma Pathak, Homestay owner, Ladpura Khas, Orchha: She said with the support of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department, she has established a homestay in her fields to provide a unique experience for tourists. Instead of staying in expensive, impersonal hotels, tourists now prefer to stay with local families, offering them an authentic taste of Bundeli culture. At her homestay in Ladpura Khas, visitors enjoy traditional hospitality, homemade food, village tours, and cultural performances, which not only immerse them in rural life but also create employment for the local community. This initiative allows tourists to experience the real India while supporting local livelihoods..

Naveen Nayak, SMART City Gwalior: He said that the government efforts to highlight Gwalior on the tourism map are bearing fruit. Historically rich, the city required beautification and maintenance. The administration has enhanced areas like Phoolbagh and Maharaj Bada, and developed a digital museum, earning praise from international forums. Achievements like UNESCO’s ‘Music City’ title and inclusion in Swadesh Darshan 2.0 are commendable. However, relying solely on the government isn’t enough; citizens need to foster a sense of belonging. The transformation of Gwalior’s Adarsh Gaushala, driven by community involvement, exemplifies this. To further tourism, the youth must actively contribute.

Namrata Nagar, solo traveler, Bhopal: She emphasized that tourism isn’t just a business or theoretical knowledge; it’s an experiential journey. Unfortunately, many today engage in tourism to impress others, often following online trends without understanding their impact. This leads to overcrowded tourist spots, like Vrindavan, Shimla, and Ladakh, which suffer socially, culturally, and fundamentally. Rather than genuine exploration, tourists seek validation through social media, diminishing their experiences and straining local resources.

The youth should choose destinations that align with their nature and offer unique experiences. They should learn about and appreciate local cultures, foods, and traditions, as India is rich in diversity and hospitality. Eco-tourism should focus on meaningful interactions with nature rather than superficial changes. The Deshaj Darshan program aims to increase tourism awareness and understanding. Students should actively explore, discover, and inspire others, contributing to the field beyond just earning a degree and a package.

Karthika Bharti Krishnan Ministry of Tourism, GoI. She gave detailed information about the programs started by the Ministry of Tourism to promote tourism. She told that under Swadesh Darshan, work is being done to create tourism circuits in the state. To promote sustainable tourism, programs are being organized focusing on ‘Travel For Life’. Its objective is to minimize the adverse effects of your travel on the environment. ‘Youth Tourism Clubs’ are being created at school and college level to connect the young generation with tourism. Apart from this, she also spoke on ‘Prasad Yojana’.

Deshaj Darshan aims to highlight lesser-known tourism destinations and cultural treasures. Selected speakers, chosen for their regional expertise, discuss relevant topics. In the coming days, all significant speeches will be documented and published for societal benefit.