Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kerala's Floating Fiesta: Art & Eco-Tourism Unite
Kerala's Floating Fiesta: Art & Eco-Tourism Unite
11 Jul
Summary
- Solar-powered Indra boat offers unique Kerala backwater experiences.
- Folk art performances on Pathiramanal Island revive fading traditions.
- Safari package benefits local artists and villagers directly.
India's largest solar-powered boat, Indra, navigates Kerala's backwaters, offering tourists a glimpse into unique cultural experiences. The Kuttanad Safari journey includes visits to below-sea-level paddy fields and culminates at Pathiramanal Island.
On Pathiramanal Island, visitors witness 'Folk Fiesta,' a daily one-hour performance showcasing fading art forms. Organized by IPTA, the show features diverse performances such as kalaripayattu, masked dances inspired by folklore, and unique folk songs like Parunthattom, performed by artists who are often daily wage earners.
The safari package extends beyond performances, involving local residents who share traditional skills like mat weaving and coir rope making. Tourists can interact with villagers, try these crafts, and even taste freshly cooked black clams from the lake. This initiative ensures that tourist revenue directly benefits the local community and artists.
The Rs 1,000 Kuttanad Safari has successfully conducted 40 trips, serving 2,657 passengers and generating Rs 25.55 lakh. This eco-tourism model successfully combines a premium backwater cruise with the preservation of cultural heritage and direct economic support for local communities.
