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FUN TIME BY THE BEACH ANYONE?
The Maharashtra coastline is one big beach and many associated economies have sprung up with the arrival of tourists
The Maharashtra coastline is one big beach and many associated economies have sprung up with the arrival of tourists. While fishing and farming continue for the people staying on the coast, tourism has fast become a major source of income.
During the pandemic, the tourism industry was hit the hardest. Since everyone was locked indoors, these tiny hamlets suffered huge losses. In an effort to boost tourism, governments and local groups are putting in concerted efforts to revive these areas. The Dahanu Festival is one such initiative by the Dahanu Municipal Corporation along with the localities.
Just a train ride away, the Dahanu beach is pristine and prefect for a short break from the city. The two-day festival will highlight the local specialities and their culture.
Ashima Mittal, Assistant Collector, Dahanu Municipal Corporation, says, “Dahanu has been a key attraction for tourists from nearby areas of Maharashtra and Gujarat. With an aim to drive tourism in the region, we are organising an event of the scale that hasn’t yet taken place in Dahanu and expect hearty response from visitors not just from Maharashtra and Gujarat, but, also from other parts of the country.”
From water sports and beach games to local cuisines, workshops and sand art, the festival is packed with activities. This also includes a trek on the Dhumas mountains, camping, stargazing and kite flying. Workshops on Warli painting, quilling, punching, shell art, etc., are also being held. One can take a boat ride or go on a chikoo safari or a village tour.
Many local artistes will also showcase their talent in dance, stage plays and singing.
Students of the Punit Dance Academy will be performing Dance Folk of India. Punit Thakor, choreographer and a localite, says, “My students will be performing a range of Indian folk dances and this will give them a platform to showcase their talents and also create employment opportunities. The hope is that outsiders will see them and contact us to perform at functions.”
The Abhanga Repost will recite poetry written by Maharashtrian saints. Pratish Mhaske, vocalist says, “We are very excited to be a part of this festival. We strongly believe this will help conserve our culture and showcase it to the audience as well.”
Mardani Khel by the Shivgarjana Pratishthan is a play on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, his warriors and the art of warfare. “We are working to strengthen the entire young generation, both physically and mentally,” says Pranay Shelar, founder of the theatre group.
Box text:
Catch it LIVE!
What: Dahanu Festival 2022: Celebrating Sustainable Sweetness
When: March 12-13
Where: The Seaview Park, Dahanu beach
Timing: 10.00am to 10.00pm
