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Highlights Vol. 9 I No.9 I June 2016

Kottiyoor Vaishaka Festival The Kottiyoor festival is unique from other temple festivals of Kerala. Held in the middle of a forest, the month-long festival is the manifestation of rituals and traditions rooted in Hindu mythology.

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER A tale of two temples The Brihadeshwara Temple and Gangaikonda Cholapuram are classic examples of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period.

Travel trouble: Tips to beat Jet Lag Jet lag is a temporary disorder that is a cause of worry for constant travellers.

Dazzling Thailand

Book Review: The Vanishing Velázquez ‘The Vanishing Velázquez’ is a captivating investigation into the minds of both artists and collectors of their work.

Thailand, also known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, is a jewel of Southeast Asia.

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

CHEERFUL OUTLOOK FOR TOURISM

Editor & Publisher : Dr. G Biju Krishnan*

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he new State Tourism Minister A C Moideen’s proclamation that the Left Democratic Front government, which came to power after the recent assembly elections, would give all required support to the industry is a welcome one. The assurance that the Chief Minister and the Finance Minister would take the lead in coordinating the various government departments to push through approvals to implement many tourism projects show that the government is serious about supporting the industry, which plays a major role in revenue and employment generation. The minister has already written to Union Minister for Tourism, Mahesh Sharma to reconsider the implementation of the new biometric requirements for Saudi nationals to avail a visa to India, citing concerns about the policy’s effect on tourist arrivals from the Gulf state. The industry is also hopeful about a tourism-friendly liquor policy too. Now the ball is in the industry’s court. It is high time the stake holders in the industry should put their thinking hats on and come up with new concepts to take the sector forward. That was one of the demands put forward from the side of the government – new concepts and products. One of the suggestions made by the Union Minister was to ‘raise the profile of the lesser known destinations.’ Priority should also be given to Responsible Tourism initiatives, which has reaped significant community benefits over the last few years. The ‘Visit Kerala Year,’ ‘safe and clean destinations’ campaigns, RT initiatives should be the focus areas. The thrust on local production, procurement and supply, providing support services like laundry, the RT initiatives, etc., promotes establishment of micro enterprises and SMEs, which can minimize the economic leakages and maximize the linkage effects. It is time to prepare a blueprint for ‘inclusive growth.’

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Cover Story Kottiyoor festival

Kottiyoor Vaishaka Festival

The Kottiyoor festival is unique from other temple festivals of Kerala. Held in the middle of a forest, the month-long festival is the manifestation of rituals and traditions rooted in Hindu mythology.

ottiyoor Ulsavam or Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam is a 28-day annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus commemorating the mythology of Daksha Yaga. The pilgrimage is similar to the Kumbh Mela of Prayag. The Vysakha Mahotsavam is a yearly pilgrimage like the Hindus’ Sabarimala Pilgrimage or the Muslims’ Hajj Pilgrimage, where devotees, travelling from multiple locations throng in large numbers to a shrine at a specific period of time, during the year.

Unique rituals shrouded in myths manifest at the Vyshaka Mahotsavam, celebrated at Kottiyoor temple every year throughout the months of May and June. It is perhaps one of the largest festivals in South India, which attracts lakhs of devotees every year. The festival offers lots to see, explore, and rejoice even for casual visitors since it is held in the middle of a thick forest, which otherwise remains quiet and deserted for the rest of the year. For those who are keen

on learning more about rituals and traditions, this festival is an excellent opportunity and their journey to the temple and stay there would be a memorable experience.

Kottiyoor Temple: The Varanasi of the South

Tucked into the lush green Sahyadri mountains in the Kannur district of Kerala, lies Kottiyoor temple which is believed to be the oldest place to perform Shaiva-Shakta worship. The Kottiyoor

Utsav in Kannur engages two temples situated on the opposite banks of Bavali river – Ikkare Kottiyoor and Akkare Kottiyoor. Lord Shiva is the main deity of both the temples. Kottiyoor Mahadeva is usually referred to as ‘Kottiyoor Perumal.’ The temple is popularly known as the ‘Dakshina Kashi’ or ‘Varanasi of the South’. Ikkare Kottiyoor which is believed to be created by Parashurama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) has been built in the architectural style

ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

Ikkare Kottiyoor Temple.

followed in Kerala temples, and is a Nalukettu temple. The temple has daily poojas along with offerings to the deity and is open throughout the year. At Akkare Kottiyoor, there is no formal temple structure. The deity is believed to be a swayambhoo lingam (self-created idol of Lord Shiva) and is seated on a small heap of stones called ‘Manithara.’ The temple, built in the middle of a forest beside the meandering Bavali River, remains closed for the whole year except during the festive season. The entire shrine seems to resemble a Shivalinga.

There is another raised circular platform beside the main shrine which is called ‘Ammarakal Thara,’ where one can see a large Lakshmi lamp (a lamp of prosperity) and an idol covered with a palmyra leaf umbrella. Mythology says that Akkare Kottiyoor was the location of the Daksha yaga and Sati Devi immolated herself on the Ammarakal Thara. The rites and rituals of the temple were developed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya.

Mythology

The Daksha yaga was an important turning point in the creation and development of sects in Hinduism like Shaktism and Shaivism. It is the story

Ammarakkallu-The spot where Sati Devi immolated herself.

June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

behind the ‘Stala Purana’ (origin story of temples) of Shakti Peethas.

husband was being insulted in front of the guests. She immediately jumped into the yagna fire out of shame and anger, and committed suicide.

It is believed that Prajapathy Daksha, father of Sati Devi performed a huge yaga at this place. Sati Devi was the consort of Lord Shiva. Sati had married Shiva against the wishes of her father. Daksha performed a great yagna (with the sole aim of insulting Shiva), to which he invited all the gods and goddesses except his daughter and son-in-law to participate in it.

Knowing this, Lord Shiva, became very angry and came to Daksha’s palace. On the orders of Lord Shiva, his demons Veerabhadra and Bhadrakali destroyed the yaga and Veerabhadra beheaded Daksha. On seeing the dead body of Sati, Shiva was so enraged that, he lifted the body on his shoulder and started dancing the tandav (the dance of destruction). The dance continued for several days and the earth was on the brink of being destroyed. Then, on the appeal of all the other gods and goddesses, Lord Vishnu with the help of his Sudarshana chakra, started cutting Goddess Sati’s body. It is said that the parts of Sati’s body fell at different parts of the country, which are all considered as centers of power or the 108 Shakti Peethas.

Even though discouraged by Shiva, who told her not to go to a function where she and her husband were uninvited; the personal bond with her parents made Sati ignore social etiquette and her husband’s wishes. Sati who went to the ceremony without Shiva was deeply insulted by Daksha by calling Shiva poor and wild. Being the ideal consort of Shiva, Sati could not bear the fact that her

Later, conceding to the plea of Brahma and Vishnu, Lord Shiva gave life to Daksha and he completed the yaga. Daksha understood his faults and started worshipping Lord Shiva. Shiva appeared in front of him in the form of a Swayambhoo Lingam.

Devotees should bathe in the Bavali river before going to Akkare Kottiyoor.

Cover Story Kottiyoor festival Kapila Maharshi and Lord Parasurama worshipped this Swayambhoo Lingam for a long period. Later this place became a dense forest. Once a Kurichyan (a tribal) went into this forest to collect logs. His weapon struck the Swayambhoo Lingam and it began to bleed and he informed it to the lords and thus the place for Shiva at Kottiyoor was located. This Swayambhoo Lingam is in the Akkare Kottiyoor temple. This Lingam is in a forest, hence the brahmins were unable to reach there to worship the Lingam daily. So they decided to offer poojas to this Lingam only for 28 days in a year. This was the wish of Lord

Elaneer Vayppu.

Shiva too. In order to perform daily poojas, they constructed a temple on the opposite bank of Bavali river. This is the present Ikkare Kottiyoor temple. The Bavali river is considered holy by the temple devotees.

Significance of the temple

The Kottiyoor Temple is highly revered in Kerala and neighbouring areas of the adjoining states. The legend goes that the shrine is blessed with the divine presence of the Holy Trinity or the Trimurthy (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) and the primordial Mother Goddess (Bhagavathy). Due to this, Kali (the personification of Kali Yuga), promised Parashurama that in the presence of Trimurthy she would not enter the premises of this holy shrine. Kottiyoor is one of the most sacred shrines of Shakti. There are very few shrines in India for Sati Devi amongst which Kottiyoor is one. As it

is forbidden to build any permanent structures abiding by religious principles, there are only temporary and simple-looking structures, which resemble the hermits of sages. As it is the confluence of the presence of all the known Hindu Divinities, the place is called ‘Kottiyoor’ from ‘koodi’ and ‘uuru’ meaning ‘meeting precinct.’

Etymology

The etymology of most of the places on the way to Kottiyoor is also interlinked with the mythology. Sati Devi’s journey to the “Yagashala” can be understood by the names of these

with a sword from the Muthirikavu temple in Tavinal village being taken to the Akkare Kottiyoor temple. It is believed that this sword was the one with which Daksha was hacked to death by Lord Shiva and is today an object of daily worship at the Muthirikavu temple. On the next day, on Visakham star, the Bhandaram Ezhunnallath ritual is held. Gold, silver vessels, heavenly ornaments, etc, are brought from nearby Manathana village to Kottiyoor. An important ritual during the festival is the ‘Elaneer Vayppu’, or

Procession carrying the idols of Lord Shiva and Parvathi.

areas. The place where she desperately felt the need of Shiva and felt sad on his absence is called ‘Manathana’. The place where Sati Devi cried is now the name of a nearby village called ‘Kanneer Char.’ Another village nearby is “Aayothumchal”, this is where Sati Devi felt tired and rested for some time. An ox was provided from a place on the way for the tired Sati Devi to ride, this place is now known as “Kelakam”. There is a place called “Neendunokki”, this is the place where Sati Devi peeped at the distant ‘Yaga shala’ when she heard the noise emanating from there. The place where she had to pay taxation is called “Chungakunnu”; where she walked slowly became “Mandhemcheri.” The place where she became extremely tired and fell down is “Murchilakadu”. Stone hearths used for boiling milk came to be known as “Palukachiyamala.”

Rituals and Customs

The festivities at Kottiyoor begin

submitting tender coconuts before the swayambhoo Shiva linga. On this special day, thousands of tender coconuts brought from different parts of Malabar by the devotees are submitted. The following day, the main priest of the temple pours the collected coconut water on the idol, which is known as ‘Elaneeraattam’. For Elaneerattam, the temple receives lakhs of tender coconuts from devotees as their offerings to Lord Shiva. Neyyattam is another special ceremony connected with the festival. Rohini Aaradhana is a very important ritual which is not seen in any other temple. Kurumathur Brahman (the seniormost member of Kurumathur family, considered as the embodiment of Lord Vishnu in the ritual) embraces the swayambhoo Shiva linga as part of the ritual. The belief is that Vishnu is pacifying Shiva, who is saddened by the loss of Sati. The uniqueness of the temple ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

is that all castes in the hindu community have a role in the rituals held during the festival. People belonging to as many as 64 hindu castes participate in the rituals. Each ritual is assigned to a particular caste ranging from Brahmin to tribal. Innumerable temple rites are performed here during the festival time. Before trekking on the holy hills of Kottiyoor, devotees should take a bath in Bavali river.

The Auda poovu (Bamboo flower).

them wherever they go. Every year, lakhs of ‘Auda Poovu’ are sold here on the occasion. Each day different rituals are performed following the vedic principles. Only temporary

thatched huts are erected for the festival rites, which are removed soon after the festival. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims come to the yajna bhoomi. The idol of Shiva, the Swayambhoo

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The ‘Auda Poovu’ (bamboo flower), the main ‘prasada’ of the Kottiyoor temple, is considered to be the blessing of Lord Shiva. Resembling the beard of Daksha, the ‘Auda Poovu’ is quite popular among devotees who come to the temple to take a portion of it to their homes. It is believed that the ‘Auda Poovu’ brings prosperity in life. Some even display it on their vehicles hoping that good luck would be with

Travel tips

Travel Trouble:

Tips To Beat Jet Lag

et lag, also called desynchronosis or flight fatigue, is a temporary disorder that is a cause of worry for constant travellers. Affecting people of all ages, it is a result of your body clock unable to adjust suddenly to a different time zone, and is entirely different from the usual travel fatigue.

What Causes A Jet Lag

The cause of jet lag is due to the body being unable to adjust immediately to the time in a different time zone. Therefore, when an American travels to Britain at midnight British time, his/her body is still functioning on American time. And, as the person adjusts with the new place and schedule, he/she may experience temporary insomnia, fatigue, irritability and lack of concentration and so on, as the

brain struggles to make sense of things.

Some Symptoms

A person can experience a range of symptoms while adapting to a different time zone after a flight to a new place. Consisting of both physical and emotional symptoms, it includes: anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, confusion, dehydration, headache, irritability, nausea, difficulty in concentrating, sweating, coordination problems, dizziness, and even memory loss. Some individuals have reported additional symptoms like heartbeat irregularities and increased susceptibility to illness.

SOME REMEDIES

A few simple things which you can do before beginning your trip, during, and after the journey to overcome the effects of jet lag are as follows:

1. Sit up straight while travelling. 2. Consuming food with more water content â&#x20AC;&#x201D;like fruits and veggiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;during and after 24 hours after travel. Avoid stimulants, intoxicants, fats, deep fried foods, complex carbohydrates etc. 3. Exposing your spine to sunshine for about twenty minutes, thrice a day. 4. Soaking your hands and feet in warm water with sea salt is also helpful. 5. Regular practice of yoga asanas and pranayama can also reduce jet lag. 6. Any type of meditation is also useful. 7. Maintaining a regular schedule in your new location is also a must.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

INTERVIEW Sarat Valsraj

Sarat Valsraj, General Manager of the The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa, shares with Asian Traveller his thoughts on the hospitality industry, its linkage with tourism, and much more. Apart from professional obligations, he is regular with his game of tennis every evening at the club. Sarat Valsraj.

You have been in the hospitality industry for the past several years. Could you tell us about your early days? What made you enter the hospitality sector? A career in hotels was never planned and it happened by chance. About the time I was graduating in science, what next was the question in mind. My mother played a crucial role in deciding this career path and there has been no looking back since then. Immediately after Hotel School, I joined ‘The Leela Mumbai,’ which nurtured and set the roadmap for my career growth. The organization laid the foundation to discipline, hard work, and exposed me to the essence of Luxury, which even now I am embedded to, in the current organization. What plans do you have for the company? The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort and Spa are situated in Kumarakom on the Vembanad lake – the largest backwater lake in Kerala. Being the foremost property in terms of luxury, we offer an experience far beyond expectation and, as the tagline says: ‘Welcome back,’ to experience hospitality the way it is meant to be. How do you see the role of a hotel in developing a destination? What all 12

The Zuri Kumarakom.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

things can hospitality sector do in this regard? Destination tourism is a game changer if the resort/ hotel operator is able to incorporate a sustainable tourism model. Best practices involving the local community minimizes negative social, economic and environmental impacts and generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the wellbeing of host communities. Would you please share with us the proudest and some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life? My proudest moment is the ability to continue academics to horn my skill set in my specialized stream, supported by the corporate team at The Zuri Hotels and Resorts, which has helped shape my career growth. An unforgettable moment is the first job offer immediately after leaving Hotel School. In your career, have you ever worked abroad? What according to you are the advantages of working overseas? Yes; a deputation with our group property in Kenya. One June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

learns an ethos of the people which opens up fresh ideas in a different sphere. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? Have not foreseen that far, but definitely will continue to contribute with more involvement in public space, to coach new talent, and keep scaling up in the space that I am involved in. How do you see the growth prospects of Indian hospitality sector? Bullish, and with international brands entering the market, the potential is immense. New smart cities envisaged by the government will see these brands consolidating and will be a driver in job creation and opportunities for fresh talent. About your Family? Wife is a teacher with two school going children. Boy aged 10 years, and a girl, 2-1/2 years. Please tell us about your hobbies and other interests? My mantra is to be fit,

and is very health conscious. So, a game of Tennis in the evening at the club. I am also involved in philanthropy work through Rotary Club. I attend CII and Cochin Chamber of Commerce’s sessions as a member. Therefore, networking is important to meet people from different industries. Which is your favourite destination? Why? My Roots are from Thalassery, and is my favoured getaway is ‘Home Sweet Home’. It is known for its amazing eateries, and cuisines like Biryani, Kallummakaya (Mussels), Thalassery Falooda – which is a regional variant of the Persian dessert. Some of the dishes include: Kallummakaya porichathu (fried mussel), Arikkadukka (mussel fried in rice batter), mussel pickles, etc. Elambakka Mussels is one of my personal favourite. Besides this, Thalassery is also known for its bakery products. In fact, the first bakery in Kerala was started by my ancestors in 1880 called Mambally’s Royal Biscuit Factory, which has its roots all over Kerala. 13

NEWSLINE

Jet Airways to expand connectivity to the Arabian Gulf

Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, will operate new daily services from Hyderabad to Dammam and from Mangaluru to Sharjah from August 7, 2016. The addition of these new services will bolster Jet Airways’ offering to the Arabian Gulf region, further strengthening the airline’s growing network and significantly enhancing connectivity for passengers. Dammam will be the second city in the Gulf region to be connected with Hyderabad by Jet Airways after Abu Dhabi. With the addition of Sharjah, Jet Airways will operate to three cities in the Gulf region from Mangaluru. The airline currently operates daily flights to Abu Dhabi and Dubai from Mangaluru. The new flights will

benefit the large number of Indians travelling from the Gulf region to Hyderabad and Mangaluru, from where they also have a choice of domestic connections to other Indian destinations. Travel between India and the Gulf region is witnessing rapid growth, with over 32 lakh flyers travelling to the Gulf countries from India between January to March 2016 and a similar number returning to India during the same period. The launch of additional daily services to Sharjah and Dammam strengthens Jet Airways’ already extensive network of flights to the Gulf region. With the new flights, Jet Airways will operate around 640 weekly flights between India and 12 destinations in the Gulf, making it the largest operator connecting India to this region.

Kenya Tourism expects doubledigit growth from India this year The East African nation of Kenya regards India as an important source market. In the calendar year 2015, India has emerged as the third largest tourist source market for Kenya with a total share of 6.6% of the total arrivals. “India remains the largest source market in Asia. In 2016, we are expecting doubledigit growth with various incentives announced by the Government of Kenya. India and Kenya has a lot of historical connection and it 14

TAT Newsroom Blogger Campaign to launch on 16 June The date has been set for the long-awaited TAT Newsroom Blogger campaign to start accepting entries. From 16 June, 2016, the world’s talented bloggers and photographers can upload their stories and images of Thailand and get a chance to win an exclusive trip to the kingdom. The TAT Newsroom Blogger Campaign is aimed at promoting the charms and attractions of Thailand, its culture and people through stories and real experiences. It is the kingdom’s unique blend of traditions and festivals that epitomise ‘Thainess’ and make the country stand out in offering unique experiences to all visitors, writers and photographers in specific. The TAT Newsroom Blogger Campaign is open to anyone who has an active online blog or social media presence. All that is required is for bloggers and photographers to write a blog post about their experiences in Thailand or upload a favourite Thailand photo. To enter, bloggers must have a high-profile and regularly-updated social media presence as well as a number of regular followers. This could include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google Plus, etc, or a personal blog that covers travel, food or culture

to educate them about the tourist offerings and products of the country. Talking about the focus is easy for Indians to connect segments in the Indian with the destination Kenya,” market, Biswas said, “We said Chiranjib Biswas, see a lot of potential in Destination Manager, Kenya Indian market. MICE is Tourism Board. a key focus sector. We Last year, Kenya Tourism are working closely with conducted training sessions Indian MICE operators to and one-on-one interactions enhance this segment into Kenya. Apart from leisure, with Indian travel trade

topics. Entrants also need to be followers of the TAT Newsroom via social media platforms. Content bloggers who have yet to come to Thailand can also enter the contest by writing about the amazing experiences they would love to enjoy in the kingdom. Entrants can upload upto five stories and photos to the specially created TAT Newsroom Blogger website,www. blogger.tatnews.org, which will be launched on 16 June, 2016. The Campaign will be open for 45 days or until 31 July, 2016. After posting their stories and photos, the bloggers and photographers can then ask their online followers and members of the public to vote. The top three bloggers and three photographers with the highest numbers of votes will win an all-expenses paid trip to Thailand, which will take place from 16-20 September, 2016. The next three most voted story blogs and photos will receive a special prize. Voting on the website will be open from 16 June to 10 August, 2016, and the top three active voters will get a chance to receive prizes with their names entered into a lucky draw. By signing in via their personal Facebook or Google plus accounts, voters are allowed to cast one vote per hour for upto 10 votes per day. we are very hopeful that Indian market will continue to grow and enforce the various unmatched Kenya product offerings of various kinds, including wild safaris and Kenya’s beautiful beaches.” Since last September, Kenya issues single-entry e-Visa to Indian nationals, for business, tourism or medical purposes. ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

Book review

Book

The Vanishing Velázquez A 19th Century Bookseller’s Obsession with a Lost Masterpiece Author: Laura Cumming

rom the pen of one of the world’s most expert art critics, comes this incredible true story—a mix of history and mystery about an obsessed nineteenth-century bookseller who is determined to prove that he has found a lost portrait made by Velázquez. The novel starts with John Snare, a nineteenth-century provincial bookseller from Reading, acquiring a painting for £8—a half-length portrait of Charles I, supposedly by Van Dyke, from an auction in a defunct boarding school. He finds that the Charles of the painting was too young to be king and yet too young to be painted by the Flemish painter Van Dyke. If it is not Dyke’s, then whose is it? Snare’s research leads him to believe that the painting could have been made by none other than Diego Velazquez, whose long-lost portrait of Prince Charles has eluded art experts for generations. Velázquez (1599– 1660), who was the official painter of the Madrid court when the Spanish Empire was on the verge of a

collapse, could have made this when the young Prince Charles of England went there to propose a marriage with a Spanish princess. Charles, who usually allows a couple of hours to sit for his portraits, convinces Snare that only Velázquez could have met this challenge. To convince the public of this discovery he faces several challenges, and like Velázquez himself, is forced to choose between art and family. ‘The Vanishing Velázquez’ is a captivating investigation into the minds of both artists and collectors of their work. It is in part a study in obsession, a paean of praise to a genius artist, and an investigative novel. It brings to life the extravagant Spanish courts in the 1700s, the courtrooms and auction houses of nineteenth-century London and New York. It is also a tale of mystery, class, crime, politics and accidents. Laura Cumming has been an art critic of ‘The Observer,’ since 1999, and ‘The Vanishing Velázquez’ is her second book. Her first book: ‘A face to the world’ (2009), is also about art.

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TAMILNADU TRAVELLER

Brihadeshwar Temple.

Coronation of Rajendra Chola.

A tale of two Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam Additional Director, Tamil Nadu Tourism

temples

he Brihadeshwara Temple, which is locally known as Tanjai Periya Kovil, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thanjavur in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as Rajarajeshwara Temple, Rajarajeswaram, and Brihadeshwara Temple. It is one of the largest temples in India and is a classic example of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period, built by Raja Raja Chola I. The architect and engineer of the temple was Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Perumthachan, who is revered as a father figure to all craftsmen in his homeland of present-day Kerala. The temple is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Living Chola Temples,â&#x20AC;? with the other two being: the Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara temple.

First All Granite Temple

Brihadeshwara Temple is the first complete all granite temple in the world. Though granite is not found in the surrounding areas, it is not known from where the stones were brought from. And, the absence of a granite quarry within a 100 km radius of the temple requires logistics of epic proportions to get the stone to the construction site. Thus, granite was hard to find, and even harder to carve. Yet, the great Chola wanted the temple to be covered with the most intricate designs, unlike the pyramid which possesses extraordinary dimensions, but without artistry.

The tallest temple

When the Brihadeshwara temple was completed in 1003 CE, it was the tallest temple in India by an order of magnitude of 10. A thousand years later,

standing at 216 feet, it is still the tallest temple in India. And, atop the soaring vimana â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the tower above the main temple, is a capstone that weighs 80 tons. The interesting feature of this temple is that the tower which lies over the sanctum has more elevation as compared to the towers set over the gopurams at the entrance. After dusk, when the temple is been illuminated, its topmost light over the dome seems not less than another planet glowing and coming closer to the earth. This attraction draws thousands of people to visit it.

Musical pillars

At the entrance of sanctum sanctorum, there are two idols of Ganesha on the corridor. On tapping the two, you will feel the sound travelling through stone in one idol and through metal on the other. There are also some musical pillars which produces

different sounds when tapped. Some other interesting facts include: the original name of the deity was Rajarajeshwar, and it was the Marathas who gave it the name ‘Brihadeshwara’ or the ‘Great Ishwara’. The main temple is entirely built of granite, and more than 130,000 tons of granite is said to have been used to build it.

Gangaikondacholapuram.

A long associated myth with this temple is that the shadow of the main structure does not fall on the ground. However, this has been proved wrong by scientists. The statue of Nandi at the entrance of the temple is carved out of a single stone. The main Vimana, which is more than 200 feet in height, is often called the ‘Dakshin Meru’ or ‘Southern Meru’. The inspiration to build the temple came to Raja Raja Chola during his visit to Sri Lanka and is a result of a dream he had. The temple has a portrait of Raja Raja Chola paying obeisance to Lord Nataraja. And, this is undoubtedly, the first ever instance of a royal portrait.

Singavaai Kinaru.

Depictions of nartakis or dancers showing eighty one of hundred and eight karanas (synchronised movements of hands and feet) in bharatanatyam are carved here. These karanas are a part of the karanas mentioned in the Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni or Sage Bharata. There is also evidence that the temple was a platform for talented dancers to showcase their talent. These depictions are first of their kind. The inscriptions also mention the different kinds of jewels used in the period. Each of these jewels is mentioned in detail. A total of twenty three different types of pearls, eleven varieties of diamonds and rubies are mentioned in these inscriptions.

Gangaikondacholapuram Temple

Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva.

June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

Legend has it that the consecration of the temple was unsuccessful and this upset the King very much. Since he died before correcting it,

the task was taken by his son Rajendra Chola I who built the Cholapuram temple or Gangaikondacholeeswaram in the Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu. It is also an example of the Dravidian style of architecture developed by the Chola dynasty, and completed in 1035 AD. Though the temple of Gangaikondacholapuram follows the plan of the great temple of Thanjavur in most details, it has an individuality of its own. From the remains of it, one can find that it had only one enclosure wall and a gopuram while the Thanjavur temple has two gopuras and enclosures. The fine architecture of the temple boasts of a 9 storey vimana which extends to the height of 185 feet. Facing the east direction, the Gangaikondacholapuram is decorated with incredible sculptures and carvings. No less than 54.86 m in height, the temple structure follows the style of Brihadeshwara Temple except for the unique curved vimana. The architecture is a portrayal of simple carvings on hard granite stones, irrespective of the complex style of Cholas. The creativity of the sculptors is reflected in the figures of the dancing Nataraja and the peaceful Saraswati. However, the sculptures erected here are as artistic as found in any other temples of Cholas. The most interesting are of ShivaParvati, Ardhanarishwar (the man-woman manifestation of Lord Shiva) and Ganesha. The colossal shrine also houses several significant bronzes of the Chola age. The main shrine is dedicated to Shiva and sub-shrines, to Chandikeshwara and Mahishasuramardini (Durga). Another attraction is the lionshaped well or simhakeni in the temple premises which, looks very beautiful. So, make sure that you include these two temples in your travel itinerary and give it a visit. 19

The Travel & Tourism Fair

TTF Kolkata and Hyderabad is back with new features

Sanjiv Agarwal

eeping with the positive sentiments in the tourism industry both the shows are going to be bigger, compared to last year. Entries to the shows are free, if registered online. Participating states and countries will present cultural events and marketing presentations to trade visitors and the media. With a wide array of tourism offerings, country representations from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, Bangladesh, Dubai, China, Bhutan, Macau and more, have set the bar high at various TTFs this year. The domestic sector continues to repose rocksolid confidence in TTF as the most effective, countrywide platform for marketing and promotion. Among the state tourism departments who have in-principally committed big participation in these two TTF editions are:

The Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) season will kick-start with the Kolkata edition from 8-10 July and Hyderabad, from 15-17 July. It is India’s oldest and largest travel trade show which is now organised in nine cities annually. These two shows will be followed by TTF West Series covering Ahmedabad, Surat, Mumbai and Pune, together comprising the biggest tourism market in India.

Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Odisha, Kerala, Punjab, Telangana, Karnataka and more. The big private exhibitors (inprincipally) confirming in multiple locations include Adlabs, Travstarz, Oyo Rooms, IRCTC, Merakey Technology Solutions and Nicco Parks. Sanjiv Agarwal, Chairman & CEO, Fairfest Media Limited (organiser of TTF shows), commented:

“In a continent-sized country like India, the regional markets for domestic and outbound tourism are so strong that they needed their own travel trade shows. Fairfest Media Ltd pioneered the concept with the TTF shows way back in 1989, when there was no such show in the country. TTF is now organised in nine cities every year!” Highlighting the importance of the TTF Kolkata and Hyderabad, he said: “Needless to mention

the huge importance of Kolkata as a source market and gateway to the Eastern India, those in travel business know it too well. As usual, the space in TTF Kolkata is fully sold out. Immediately after Kolkata, TTF Hyderabad provides an equally important opportunity to be present in a hugely strategic market in the centre of South India. Hyderabad has a remarkable prospect due to its unique position of serving as the capital city of two states, in the transition period. We have recently experienced a rapid expansion of TTF in Hyderabad.” With more than 2,500 exhibitors from 80 countries ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

and 36 Indian States/Union Territories, and 186,000 visitors combined, the TTF presents an unparalleled marketing opportunity for exhibitors and is the best place for networking, face-to-face meetings, striking deals of the future and building successful, and steady business partnerships.

New Features TechForum@TTF

It is the only specialised showcase of its kind in India, focussing on Technology, E-commerce Systems and Software for the travel industry. It is also a networking platform to discuss challenges, evaluate

technology needs, source latest technologies and launch new technology products. It is conceived as ‘show in show’ concept which means a distinct area in the TTF will be earmarked for the segment, with a wellequipped tech theatre and a tech cafe, on the lines of other international travel shows.

Startup Knockdown+

It is an initiative by TravHQ in association with TTF to highlight the emerging travel technologies across various cities in India. It will be organised during TechForum@TTF, a niche

platform to connect, engage and deliberate on travel technologies. This new level of battle provides an opportunity to companies at various stages of development, be it an early stage venture or an emerging travel startup or an innovative product by a recognised enterprise.

Outbound Village

It is designed to highlight international destinations, which are interested in promoting directly in strong regional markets in India. Outbound Village enables you to market your products, services and destinations, sign long-term deals, meet top international buyers from the region and generate sales leads, meet existing customers and channel partners, launch new products and packages, assess the market and spot important trends.

MoT considering separate classification guidelines for Motels Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India is considering a separate set of classification guidelines for Motels in India to promote highway hospitality infrastructure across the country. The Ministry had preliminary round of discussions with tourism and hospitality industry stakeholders on the subject here recently. Confirming the same, a top official of the Ministry said that the idea is to create separate set of classification guidelines treating Motels as a separate category within the Hotel Classification framework. ‘Highway infrastructure is quite poor currently; therefore, the intention is to improve it so that enough rest rooms, cafes, toilet facilities, come up on highways,’ he said. Once the guidelines are framed, the government will also consider incentives like tax concessions, etc, June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

for investors. According to industry sources, the proposal is to set a limit of 50 mtrs distance from the highway to get

classified as motels. It is still unclear whether existing unlicenced hotels in the urban centres and suburbs

close to highways will be eligible to get classification under the proposed Motel guidelines.

Dazzling thailand

Dazzling Thailand

Koh Phangan

Thailand, also known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, is a jewel of Southeast Asia. It is developed enough to provide most comforts, and yet still wild enough to offer off-the-beaten path adventure. It is a country ripe with opportunity for once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. Whether you start with the world-class beaches in the south or the mountain villages in the north, Thailand will not disappoint you.

hailand’s attractions are diverse and each provides a rewarding and memorable experience in its own way.

Koh Samui

Sun setting over Surat Thani Mainland.

The idyllic yet happening island of Koh Samui rather offers an array of competitively priced hotels that allow direct beach access or dizzying views of the ocean from cliff tops across the island of Koh Samui. From clean yet budget-friendly hotels to extremely highend hotels complete with private villas and butler service, Koh Samui offers affordable ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

Khao Sok National Park.

luxury.

Beach.

easily available on the island.

Koh Samui is all about its perfect powder-white beaches that kiss turquoise blue waters and many secluded spots on its beaches. Candle-lit dinners at stylish restaurants make for romantic evenings. Rows of restaurants on its various “beach roads” offer cuisine from all over the world, and most beach cafes offer exciting nightlife options with enjoyable music and great cocktails. Travellers have five different beaches, each with a different vibe to choose from. Chaweng Beach is for those who love to party and enjoy a busy beach scene with water sports and other beach activities. The other beaches on the island are more quiet and relaxing. Travellers can also visit and relax in the pools at Koh Samui’s various waterfalls. One can also plan an evening at its dizzyingly beautiful view point which falls halfway between Chaweng Beach and Lamai

The more adventurous might like to go on diving and snorkeling excursions in Koh Samui.

Koh Phangan

June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

For those who might want to shop, Koh Samui features interesting street shopping near popular tourist areas, especially at Chaweng and several night markets that begin around 5pm: Fridays at Bophut Fisherman’s village, Saturdays at Nathon and also near Central Festival Mall, Sundays at Lamai Beach. Getting around in Koh Samui is easy as one can rent a scooter (be sure to request a helmet or be prepared to pay a fine for riding without a helmet). Indian food is easily available for those who might not enjoy the delicious southern Thai cuisine, which is celebrated worldwide as one of the best seafood culinary cultures. Of course, European and western cuisine is also

World-renowned for its monthly ‘Full Moon Party’, Koh Phangan started out as a hippie’s paradise but has since evolved to welcome not only the free-spirited but pretty much everyone who enjoys the ocean. Despite widening its appeal, the island remains a serene hideaway with only a handful of top end hotels. Couples will love resorts such as Santhiya, which already attracts a number of high end Indians and also Pariya Resort and Villas Haad Yuan, which is only a short boat ride away from Haad Rin, where the Full Moon Party happens. Families can bond over beach and pool activities at the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas.

Khao Sok National Park

Established as a national park in 1980, the Khao Sok National Park is a virgin

Dazzling thailand

Koh Samui

rainforest surrounded by limestone mountain ranges and high cliffs. With an area of approximately 646 square kilometers, the main attractions in the park include Namtok Mae Yai

Chiang Rai, Thailand.

and Namtok Sip Ed Chan which can be reached by car, while other waterfalls and caves are accessible by foot. A boat ride on the reservoir is soothing, cool and enjoyable. The area is home to wildlife animals like elephants, leopard, serow, langurs, tigers and bear. Rare flowers can also be found here, but most visitors come here to see the Bua Phut or Rafflesia Kerri Meyer, a flower which can only be found here and is touted to be the largest flower in the world with its diameter reaching upto 80 cms, when in full bloom between October and December. Note that a 5-8 hour walk is required to see such a flower.

Another big highlight of the park is its floating hotels. Quaint little raft-houses set up in the reservoir allow for an exciting experience. This is a water-baby’s delight – jump into the water for a swim on a whim, any time of the day. Most rafthouses come complete with floats and life jackets to allow swimmers and non-swimmers to enjoy the water. Besides these, the park’s own and other entrepreneurs’ bungalows, camping areas are available at the park.

Koh Tao

Tiny “turtle island” Koh Tao is a top destination for scuba divers though nondivers too are easily drawn in by the island’s beauty

and its inhabitants’ charm. The destination is perfect for travellers who seek simply crystal clear waters, powder white beaches and an international beach vibe.

Surat Thani mainland

While it is mainly a city, attracting the business travellers there are a few experiences that one must try on the Surat Thani mainland. One truly sublime experience is a fireflies’ boat tour. No cameras, no talking, no splashing… the tour guide will always rattle off a whole host of don’ts, but travellers will still want to do this. Another interesting activity for families and culture vultures is ‘Phum Riang’, a silk-weaving community of Thai Muslims. ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

NEWSLINE

Mazagan unveils tailored GCC offers for Ramadan and Eid

Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort unveiled its GCC programme for this year’s Ramadan and Eid period. The resort has tailored special packages for the entire family to enjoy the occasions with tempting activities. This Ramadan, Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort offers a special package with an authentic Iftar experience and a stay in a luxurious atmosphere, featuring an amazing array of activities for the whole family on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Rates for this Ramadan offer starts from USD 195, and includes accommodation for 2 adults and 2 children, plus complimentary Iftar, complimentary breakfast for 2 children under 4 years. The package will also give unlimited access to kids clubs, special animation and activities for the kids, unlimited access to Mazagan Fitness Centre,

free selected sports and leisure activities, and complimentary shared airport transfers from/ to Casablanca airport by scheduled shuttle service. The package is dedicated for arrivals from the Gulf region between June 6 and July 6, 2016. Until July 9, 2016, GCC tourists would be able to book a very tempting Eid package starting from USD 269 per room per night for stays between 7th 10th July. This includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner in buffet restaurant for 2 adults and 2 children under 12, in addition to complimentary access to leisure and wellness activities throughout the stay: biking, fitness, tennis, and complimentary access to the 3 kids clubs throughout the stay: Baby Club, Kids Club and Rush Club, plus special animation and activities for kids.

Thailand & Air Asia invite Thailand-lovers to a design contest The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is partnering with Thai Air Asia in launching the ‘Paint the Sky with Amazing Thailand’ design contest, following the success of last year’s co-branding partnership in which the airline wrapped its newest Airbus A320 aircraft with the logo of the 2015 Discover Thainess campaign and decorated its interior with images of the “12 Hidden Gems” destinations. The ‘Paint the Sky with

Amazing Thailand’ design contest is open for designers, artists and members of the public. They are invited to submit their entries under two categories: Amazing Thailand – Amazing Culture, to promote Thai culture, hospitality and lifestyles, and Amazing Thailand – Amazing Destination, to promote Thailand’s tourist

attractions—be they cultural, natural, architectural or concerned with Thai festivals and leisure. Any region of Thailand can be represented, giving artists a great deal of freedom when coming up with creative designs. The winning designs under both categories will be painted onto two of Thai Air Asia’s Airbus 320-200 aircraft, which operate on both domestic and international routes. The first aircraft with the winning design will be launched in August 2016, and the second one about a month later, and will be available for at least 11 months. The contest is open to designers, artists and all members of the public – basically any Thailandlover. Creative Thailand-lovers are to submit entries on culture or tourist attractions. Winning creations will be featured on Air Asia’s aircraft on domestic Thai and international routes.

JetPrivilege wins The Coveted “210 Award” JetPrivilege, the loyalty and rewards management programme and the frequent flyer programme of Jet Airways, was named winner of the ‘210 Award’ for the Middle East and Asia region at the 2016 Freddie Awards. India’s premier airline is proud to have been honoured at the world’s most prestigious loyalty programme awards within the travel industry. JetPrivilege appeared in the top three places in all the six categories of the Freddie Awards in the Middle June 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

East and Asia region. JetPrivilege was ranked second for Programme of the Year, Best Elite Programme, Best Customer Service, and Best Redemption Ability. In the Promotion and Affinity card category, the airline secured the third position. The annual “Freddie” awards recognize the world’s top airline and hotel loyalty programmes. These prestigious awards are determined by votes from frequent fliers and hotel patrons, recognizing the best loyalty

programmes for both airlines and hotels in the three global regions Americas, Europe and Africa, Middle East and Asia. JetPrivilege, the proud recipient of the prestigious Freddie Award in 2013, and ‘Best Loyalty Program in Service Sector’ in the 7th Loyalty Summit Awards in 2014, continues to be the Frequent Flyer programme of Jet Airways, offering exclusive privileges to members when they travel on Jet Airways and any of its partner airlines. 25

NEWSLINE

MTDC forms new beach in Mumbai in the city. An MTDC official said, “Now a portion towards the south is called Andheri (West) beach and the remaining portion is the Versova beach.” Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), to beautify the Versova beach, has divided it into two parts christening a 2.3km-long stretch as the Andheri (West) beach making it the newest beach

Last year, the state government had cleared a plan for the beautification of what is now called the Andheri (West) beach. Paraag Jaiin Nainuttia, Managing Director, MTDC, said, “Plans for the

10.7% growth in FTAs in April 2016 Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) during the Month of April, 2016 were 5.99 lakh as compared to FTAs of 5.42 lakh during the month of April, 2015 and 5.35 lakh in April, 2014. There has been a growth of 10.7% in April, 2016 over April, 2015. FTAs during the period January-April, 2016 were 31.08 lakh with a growth of 10.1% as compared to the FTAs of 28.23 lakh with a growth of 3.0% in JanuaryApril, 2015 over JanuaryApril, 2014. The top 15 source countries for FTAs was Bangladesh (18.09%), followed by USA (12.24%), UK (9.58%), Sri Lanka (3.71%), Malaysia (3.23%), China (3.14%), Australia (3.05%), Germany (3.02%), France (2.86%), Canada (2.83%), Russia (2.81%), Japan (2.50%), Nepal (2.07%), Singapore (1.85%) and Thailand (1.61%). The top 15 ports during this period were Delhi Airport (29.12%), followed by Mumbai Airport (16.85%), Haridaspur Land check post 26

(9.77%),Chennai Airport (7.82%), Bengaluru Airport (6.66%), Kolkata Airport (4.16%), Cochin Airport (3.51%), Hyderabad Airport (3.07%), Goa Airport (2.84%), Gede Rail (2.31%), Trivandrum Airport (1.54%), Ahmedabad Airport (1.44%), Tiruchirappalli Airport (1.31%) Attari-Wagah (1.13%), and Ghojadanga land check post (0.96%). Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from Tourism in India during the month of April, 2016 were INR 11,637 crore as compared to INR 10,091 crore in April, 2015 and INR 9,179 crore in April, 2014.The growth rate in FEEs in rupee terms during April, 2016 over April, 2015 was 15.3% as compared to the growth of 9.9% in April, 2015 over April, 2014. FEEs from tourism during January- April, 2016 were INR 52,048 crore with a growth of 15.7% as compared to the FEEs of INR 44,966 crore with a growth of 5.0% during January-April, 2015 over January-April, 2014.

Andheri (West) beach were cleared by the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA). An Expression of Interest (EoI) was floated only after getting all approvals. Locals too have been consulted. All NOCs and permissions are in place. And the water sport facilities will be ready for use by the end of the year.” MLA Ameet Satam said, “The plan envisions a seafront that offers water sports, an eatery and a marina. We are also planning to have the city’s first beach board walk along the shore that will link

Andheri and Juhu beaches. This will be the best beach in the city. The plan to build the boardwalk would take off soon.” The tourism agency has already invited proposals for turning this beachfront into a new tourist destination offering water sports facilities. MTDC has already appointed architect PK Das as a consultant to oversee the transformation of Andheri (West) beach. Besides water sports facilities, the plan also features a floating jetty, and security watch towers that will be manned by the coastal police.

Aster launches first online store for health and wellness in GCC

The first e-commerce store in health and wellness space in GCC by Aster Pharmacy was launched today by the legendary Indian Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. This coincides with the opening of 200th Aster Pharmacy outlet. As part of a mission to bring healthcare closer to their customers AsterOnline.com hopes to provide the population in Dubai the comfort of ordering and receiving the healthcare products sitting at the comfort of their homes. AsterOnline.com is designed to be an extension to the existing 200 Aster Pharmacies in the region, rather than substituting them. The online platform shall offer convenience, choice and health product delivery. Customers can

purchase over the counter medications, nutritional products, medical equipments, skin and hair care products etc along with various wellness products online. The online platform currently offers a range of 10,000 products. Launching the Aster Online portal, Mr Sachin Tendulkar said “It is a remarkable step by Aster Pharmacy as in today’s urban life, health, wellness and time needs to be well balanced. Such an initiative by Aster seeks to fill the gap and I wish them the very best for this innovative and compelling proposition.” Chairman and Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare, Dr. Azad Moopen stated: “We are excited to launch the online healthcare store in line with the vision of UAE leadership, who are in the forefront of adopting innovation in all areas. This will help us to transform the healthcare retail industry to fit the needs of our consumers and patients.” ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

NEWSLINE

Jet Airways to increase capacity on Mumbai-Singapore route Jet Airways, India’s premier international airline, will upgrade its daily flights between Mumbai and Singapore by deploying its state-of-the-art Airbus A330-200 aircraft, from June 1, 2016. The upgrade to a wide body aircraft will result in a 50 percent increase in capacity compared to the Boeing 737 currently operating on this route. The A330-200 offers guests a customized twocabin seating configuration of 18 seats in Premiere and

236 in Economy. This upgrade will enable guests on this high demand sector to experience enhanced cabin comfort on board the widebody aircraft, while offering convenient connections from Mumbai to Australia and the ASEAN region over Singapore on codeshare and interline partner airlines. Guests on incoming flights from Singapore will

be able to avail convenient onward connections to key destinations on Jet Airways’ domestic network and beyond to international destinations from Mumbai. Jet Airways’ capacity addition comes at a time when India’s bilateral trade and investment

Maldives Tourism organizes successful 4-city Roadshows in India

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) organized a trade road show in Lucknow, Chandigarh, Pune, and Hyderabad, keeping in line with its Visit Maldives 2016 year activities. These road shows are also a part of the overall strategy of MMPRC specifically for the India market in the year 2016. The road shows are a follow-up to the road shows held in 2015 in the cities of tier-1 cities of India: New Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai which were met with resounding success. Organized by the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC), 5 28

representative partners from the tourism industry of Maldives participated in the roadshow. They were Dusit Thani, Sun Siyam Resorts, Adaaran Resorts, Lily Beach Resort and Spa, and Travelers Street. The road show consisted of B2B sessions between the travel agents and the partners who attended the show. The show also consisted of a raffle draw where a lucky travel agent in each city won a three nights stay at Sun Siyam Resorts, Maldives. Also, present at the show was Fathimath Raheel, Deputy Director, MMPRC who said, “We are very excited to be conducting these road shows in Lucknow

and other cities. This underlines MMPRC’s commitment to the Indian market and the importance of India to Maldives tourism numbers.” “From January to December 2015, 52,368 Indians visited Maldives which is an increase of almost 15% compared to the year 2014. Maldives offers free visa on arrival for all nationalities, which is a further boost for the Indian traveller. India is a very important focus market for us and we will continue to drive marketing, PR & Media strategies to increase visitor arrivals from India,” said Fathimath Raheel, Deputy Director, MMPRC, who attended all the roadshows.

with Singapore and Australia is on a growth curve. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from Singapore in 2015 was an impressive USD 11 billion, covering sectors such as information technology, real estate, construction, renewable energy and pharmaceuticals.

‘Best Indian Destination for Wildlife’ award for MP Tourism

Madhya Pradesh Tourism (MPT) has received the “Best Indian Destination for Wildlife” award by the Lonely Planet Group. The award was handed over to MPT by actress Amy Jackson at a function recently held in Mumbai. On behalf of MPT Chairman, his Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Vinod Kumar Amar received the award. Madhya Pradesh has 25 wildlife sanctuaries including nine

National Parks. Among them Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench are ideal habitat for tigers. Madhya Pradesh has launched a number of programmes for the conservation of flora and fauna because of which Kanha and Pench were regarded as the most beautiful national parks in Asia while Bandhavgarh and Pench are known world over because of tiger reserves.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016

NEWSLINE

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum & Tour Thanks to its continuing investment in the latest interactive technology, the renowned Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum will include a thrilling new Virtual Reality Experience to be launched on 20th June. Visitors donning the VR headsets will be immersed in the drama and magic of Wimbledon and become a virtual part of the matches that made history— from the genius of John McEnroe to the remorseless power of legends such as Pete Sampras, Martina Navratilova and Serena Williams. Focusing on the history of Wimbledon – the best shots, players and matches – this experience will be one of the first of its kind in England. Visitors wearing the HTC Vive VE headsets will find themselves experiencing

the Championships as though they were right there in the heat of the action. There’s plenty more to excite and delight visitors too, including the latest exhibition, Reinventing the Racket, a fun-packed showcase highlighting the Museum’s most iconic and unusual rackets, featuring the old, the new and the entirely unique. One of the most popular

attractions continues to be the Tour – a behind-thescenes look at the most prestigious tennis grounds in the world, lasting one hour and revealing areas normally unseen by the public. The Tour also takes in No. 1 Court – which will be modified due to the construction of a new roof, and also the Members’ Enclosure, for a great view of No.2 and No.3 Courts.

By the time of the 2016 Championships new features will also be added to the Tour including never before seen locations such as the Broadcast Centre, a brand new Wimbledon sculpture due to be opened by HRH The Duke of Kent and also the Press Writers’ Room. Guests will be able to finish the Tour in style on Centre Court in front of the Royal Box.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE CONTEST - 100

Arun Arora

appointed as General Manager at Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar.

Vikram Madhok

appointed as Chairman of PATA Industry Council.

Nicola Johnson

appointed as Director of Global Business Development – Jumeirah Group UK, Ireland and Scandinavia – Leisure.

Vipin Khattar

appointed as General Manager of Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights.

Girish Krishnan

appointed as Director of Food & Beverage at Courtyard Marriott, Bhopal.

Puneet Baijal

appointed as General Manager at Hyatt Regency Chandigarh.

Characters Charlie Allnut and Rosie Sayer appeared in which classic 1951 movie?

What is converted into alcohol during brewing?

Which river forms the eastern section of the border between England and Scotland?

Which Briton won an ice-skating Gold at the Lake Placid Olympics?

In what year was Prince Andrew born?

What is the national game of the Basques?

TV commercials for Campari launched the career of which actress?

Name the two families in Romeo and Juliet?

If cats are feline, what are sheep?

10. In the song, Heartbreak Hotel is on which street?

Send in your answers to editor@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 100 in the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | june 2016