The Island Tourism festival, the annual carnival of the twin islands of Andaman and Nicobar, promises a colourful extravaganza during the fifteen-day affair.
The ITF organised by the Andaman and Nicobar administration every year during the month of December and January is billed at the main festival of the islands. It was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee on Saturday.
Chatterjee started the festival by hoisting the national flag at the Gymkhana ground in Port Blair. The theme of the festival is the infamous cellular jail, better known as Kala Pani, that will complete 100 years this year.
The festival will celebrate the dance, drama and music of the islands, showcasing the arts, crafts, flora, fauna and marine life of Port Blair and Andaman and Nicobar islands.
The festival will be a host to various national and international cultural troupes. Several artistes of international repute -- including some Bollywood stars -- are also scheduled to perform during the event.
In addition to international talent, the local artists would also get equal footage, assure the authorities. Dance performances from them and the tribals will be the highlight of the carnival.
Sports too has been given a prominent share in the festival. In addition to tele-games, para-sailing, canoe-racing and scuba-diving the audience will get a taste of Nicobar Hodi race, a water-sports competition exclusive to the islands.
{{/usCountry}}Sports too has been given a prominent share in the festival. In addition to tele-games, para-sailing, canoe-racing and scuba-diving the audience will get a taste of Nicobar Hodi race, a water-sports competition exclusive to the islands.
{{/usCountry}}The festival that aims to project the image of islands as eco-friendly tourist destination will comprise photo exhibitions and cultural competitions.
Other attractions include floating restaurant, baby show and dog show.