Puducherry is a wonderful destination for spiritual tourism: Droupadi Murmu

PUDUCHERRY: President Droupadi Murmu said Puducherry has a blend of “diverse cultural streams” and has carried forward “a vibrant cultural tradition, which celebrates the Indian ethos of unity in diversity.”

Speaking at a civic reception accorded in her honour by the Puducherry government during her maiden visit to Puducherry on Monday after assuming office as the President, Murmu said Tamil, Telugu and Malayalee influences are visible (in Puducherry). So is the impact of the French, she said.

“The architecture, the festivals and lifestyles reflect the diverse influences blending together in harmony. The cultural vibrancy of Puducherry derives much of its energy from the music and dance forms prevalent in Tamil Nadu. The spirit of enjoyment is demonstrated in Masquerade or the mask festival which is a French tradition. In fact, Puducherry is a living bridge of friendship between France and India," she said.

The President said Puducherry’s spiritual aspect makes it one of the important centres of promoting yoga. Puducherry witnesses a large gathering every year to celebrate the international yoga festival, she said.

Murmu said Puducherry is a wonderful destination for spiritual tourism. “Spiritual tourism is fast becoming a global trend. It has the potential to provide a strong boost to socio-economic development of this region. The Union government has taken several measures to promote tourism in Puducherry under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. With the growth in tourism, activities related to health tourism and ecotourism will also get a boost,” she said.

Murmu said it is interesting to note that Puducherry has attracted different people for different reasons in different phases of history.

“The French established their trading posts in Puducherry around 350 years ago. Dupleix, the governor-general of French territories in India, wanted to make Puducherry a major stronghold for the French. In stark contrast to the colonial aspirations of the French, Maharishi Aurobindo chose this place in the 20th century as the best abode for spiritual solace. Places of worship can be seen dotting every part of Puducherry,” she said.

The President commended Puducherry for achieving one of the highest literacy rates in the country. “The sex ratio here has been favourable to women. These facts demonstrate that the people of Puducherry believe in gender equality. These are indicators of a truly progressive mindset. I must praise the residents of Puducherry for their truly modern and sensitive approach to development and progress,” she said.

Murmu said the Union territory, which is small, is extremely beautiful. “It validates the expression, small is beautiful,” she said.