Island Tourism Festival Kicks Off Across 13 Locations in Andaman Islands

The 'Island Tourism Festival - 2025' was officially launched by Sri Vjaya Puram, MP Bishnu Pada Ray, in a grand opening ceremony held on Saturday evening.

This five-day festival is being organized by the Department of Information, Publicity and Tourism, in collaboration with the Department of Art and Culture of the Andaman and Nicobar administration, across 13 venues.

The primary aim of the festival is to showcase a rich array of cultural performances, featuring traditional music, dance, arts, and local craftsmanship, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the unique heritage of the islands.

The opening festivities included a soulful 'Ganesh Vandana,' followed by captivating performances such as the Nicobari Dance, a Kathak piece by artists from Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, and a 'Ras' dance by performers from Youth Services & Cultural Activities, Gujarat.

To ensure a broad reach, cultural programs are set to take place at 13 different locations, catering to residents of remote islands.

Notable venues include the ITF Ground at VIP Road, Marina Esplanade, Wandoor, Wimberlygunj, and several others in South Andaman, extending to Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur in North and Middle Andaman, and reaching Car Nicobar and Campbell Bay in the Nicobar Islands.

Each venue will resonate with performances that celebrate the islands' living heritage while incorporating artistic traditions from various regions of India.

The Art & Culture department has engaged cultural troupes from different states and union territories, collaborating with local organizations to showcase a vibrant mix of classical, folk, and tribal art forms.

The festival also promises exhilarating performances by ensembles, including Mayooranritham, Theyyam, and various martial arts displays, alongside creative dances themed around historical figures.

The Island Tourism Festival 2025 is poised to be a magnificent celebration of unity in diversity, merging the rhythms of mainland India with the melodies of these islands, crafting a cultural symphony that honors India's timeless heritage.

As in previous years, a 'Hasya Kavi Sammelan' will also be held, organized by the Department of Official Language.