Kerala's Artisanal Showcase at Beypore International Water Festival

Kerala's Artisanal Showcase at Beypore International Water Festival

By Author

Published on December 29, 2023

Kerala's picturesque Beypore is set to become a global tourism hub with the inauguration of the third edition of the Beypore International Water Festival (BIWF). The event, graced by Kerala’s Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, is not just a water festival but a vibrant celebration of India's diverse handicraft heritage, showcasing traditions from 17 Indian states.

At the heart of the festival is the Responsible Tourism and Textile Art Festival. This segment, running until December 30, is a testament to Kerala's commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism. It provides a platform for artisans from across the country to display their unique crafts, including pottery, weaving, and dress-making.

Organized by Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission, the festival is more than an exhibition. It offers live demonstrations, allowing visitors to witness the mastery of artisans and fostering a deep appreciation for India's rich craft traditions. This interactive element not only enhances visitor experience but also aids in cultural exchange.

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While the festival highlights crafts from various states, it also throws the spotlight on Kerala's esteemed handloom industry. This focus not only celebrates the state's artisanal heritage but also aligns with the broader goal of promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Planned as an upfront initiative, the festival will feature workshops and discussions aimed at preserving these craft traditions. These sessions are designed to explore ways in which these crafts can be leveraged for promoting tourism that benefits local communities.

An exclusive section of the expo, in association with Agrifarm Tourism Network units, will showcase Kerala’s agricultural products. This includes an assortment of organic food products and spices, along with promoting Village Experience packages from different districts.

The BIWF inauguration by Tourism Minister Riyas marks the beginning of a series of competitive water sports and cultural showcases. The festival, featuring participants from various countries, aims to attract global attention and enhance its international appeal.

Participants from states like Tamil Nadu, Assam, Karnataka, and more, add to the festival’s diversity. Strategically spread across prime locations like Beypore Marina Beach, the festival aims to draw both local and international visitors.

From bicycle rallies to international kite fests, dinghy boat races, and surf ski displays, the festival offers a plethora of activities. Visitors can also enjoy cultural programs, a food festival, and engage in adventure sports activities, making it a comprehensive event for all ages.


Centrum Air to Launch Direct Delhi–Tashkent Flights from October 3

Centrum Air to Launch Direct Delhi–Tashkent Flights from October 3

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 3, 2025

Centrum Air, represented in India by Aeroprime Group as its exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA), will commence direct flights between Delhi and Tashkent starting October 3, 2025. The twice-weekly service, operating on Tuesdays and Fridays, is designed to enhance air connectivity, tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between India and Uzbekistan.

The official launch event, hosted by Aeroprime Group, was attended by His Excellency Sardor Rustambaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to India, along with senior dignitaries, embassy officials, media representatives, and trade partners.

Adil Mirza Khalmirzaev, GSA Department Head and Business Development Director at Centrum Air, stated that the airline is responding to growing demand for direct India–Uzbekistan connectivity. Plans are underway to expand routes from Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Tashkent by summer 2026, while Mumbai expansion will be considered based on market demand.

Abhishek Goyal, CEO & Executive Director, Aeroprime Group, highlighted that the Delhi–Tashkent route is part of a broader plan to expand Centrum Air’s presence in India, opening pathways for travelers to Central Asia and Europe.

Uzbekistan, known for its Silk Road heritage, cultural landmarks, and hospitality, is expected to benefit from improved accessibility. The new service aims to support both leisure travel and trade, strengthening cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

Centrum Air’s launch reflects growing opportunities in air connectivity and provides Indian travelers with affordable fares, convenient schedules, and a comfortable travel experience on the Delhi–Tashkent corridor.


Akasa Air Expands ‘Pets on Akasa’ Service with More Cabin Slots and Flexible Bookings

Akasa Air Expands ‘Pets on Akasa’ Service with More Cabin Slots and Flexible Bookings

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 3, 2025

Akasa Air has announced significant enhancements to its ‘Pets on Akasa’ service, offering greater flexibility and convenience for passengers travelling with pets. Starting immediately, the airline will allow two pets in the cabin per flight, up from the earlier limit of one, and has reduced the booking window to 24 hours before departure.

Since its launch in November 2022, over 8,500 pets have travelled with Akasa Air across its domestic network, highlighting the rising demand for pet-friendly air travel in India. Customer feedback has shaped several service upgrades, including extending pet travel certificate validity to 15 days and increasing the maximum cabin weight (pet plus carrier) to 10 kg.

Passengers with pets enjoy additional benefits, such as pre-booked window seats, priority check-in, baggage delivery, and first boarding options. Akasa Air staff across call centres, airport counters, and in-flight teams have undergone specialised training to ensure the safety and comfort of pets and owners.

The airline has also partnered with Umeed for Animals Foundation, a Gurgaon-based non-profit, to follow best practices in animal care and safety. Pets on Akasa is now available on flights to 24 domestic cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Guwahati, Lucknow, and Goa. Bookings can be made via the Akasa Air Care Centre or by contacting pets@akasaair.com.

Akasa Air operates a modern fleet featuring USB ports, spacious seating, and its onboard dining service, Café Akasa, along with accessibility-focused initiatives like Braille menus and safety cards. These enhancements underscore Akasa Air’s commitment to inclusive travel and its growing role in shaping pet-friendly air journeys across India.


Abhay Prabhavana Celebrated as a Must-Visit Destination on World Tourism Day

Abhay Prabhavana Celebrated as a Must-Visit Destination on World Tourism Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 30, 2025

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum & Knowledge Centre has been recognised as one of India’s most distinctive cultural destinations. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it offers an immersive journey into India’s heritage, spiritual traditions, and enduring values that continue to inspire civilisation.

Spread across 65.5 hectares on the banks of the Indrayani River, Abhay Prabhavana is counted among the largest private museums in the world. It features over 30 galleries, 350 commissioned artworks, monumental sculptures, and storytelling spaces that connect visitors to the roots of Indian thought in a modern, engaging format. From recreations of ancient heritage sites like Dholavira and Jal Mandir to interactive galleries on Indic philosophy, the museum seamlessly blends history and innovation.

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Highlights include the 13.2-metre Art Deco-style statue of Rishabhdev, regarded as the first teacher of civilisation, the 30.5-metre Manastambh symbolising humility, and the Plaza of Equanimity, a reimagined four-faced temple where values take precedence over form. Visitors can also enjoy high-quality vegetarian cuisine at the Sattva Food Court, making the destination a complete cultural retreat for families, students, and spiritual seekers.

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Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Abhay Firodia, Founder of Abhay Prabhavana, said, “Tourism, at its best, is about discovery, learning, and reflection. Abhay Prabhavana was created to be a destination where visitors can connect with India’s timeless values, understand the wisdom of our traditions, and take away insights that enrich their own lives. On Tourism Day, I invite travellers, students, and seekers of all ages to experience heritage as living knowledge, something to be felt, remembered, and carried forward.”

Every aspect of Abhay Prabhavana has been designed to engage both the eye and the mind. Expansive galleries use storytelling and design to enhance understanding, while sculptures and spaces inspire balance and reflection. Technology complements the experience without overshadowing it, allowing visitors to move seamlessly between history and imagination.

For travellers, the museum is more than just a stop on an itinerary, it is a lived journey that deepens their understanding of India’s cultural and spiritual spirit.

About Abhay Prabhavana Museum

Located on the outskirts of Pune, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting timeless Indic values inspired by Jainism. Spread across 65.5 hectares, it is among India’s largest privately owned museums. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it showcases Indian heritage through philosophy, art, history, and interactive storytelling. With curated exhibits, guided tours, and immersive experiences, the museum serves as a hub of inspiration for students, scholars, travellers, and cultural enthusiasts. More than a repository of history, it is a living space of learning, reflection, and dialogue that fosters deeper connections with India’s legacy.

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