SANJEEV SARDESAI
Have you ever thought about how people travel and explore different places? Well, there's something new called 'regenerative tourism' that's gaining attention. It's like a fresh approach to traveling that focuses on giving back to the places we visit.
Think about Goa, a beautiful place in India, which can be more defined as God’s Own Adobe (GOA). It's now being promoted by Goa Tourism as India's first regenerative tourism destination.
This is a big deal because it marks a change in how we view tourism. It's not just about having fun; it's about making a positive impact on the places we visit.
The idea of tourism has been around for a long time. It started with wealthy people going on trips for relaxation and pleasure.
Rooted in the societal constructs of classical antiquity and blossoming in 17th-century Western Europe, tourism has evolved into a multifaceted phenomenon, bearing witness to a journey of transformation across centuries.
Yet, beneath its surface lies a tale of commerce, leisure, and, increasingly, a call for regeneration.
Goa represents a sacred journey for spiritual enlightenment, distinct from tourism's commercial interests.
Initially the pursuit of the elite, tourism was synonymous with leisure and commerce. Goa represents a sacred journey for spiritual enlightenment, distinct from tourism's commercial interests. Pilgrims immerse themselves in the host's environment, fostering a symbiotic relationship.
Today, concepts like caravan policy and regenerative tourism aim to promote sustainable travel. Spiritual tourism emphasises inner growth, while homestays offer authentic cultural experiences.
In the expansive hinterlands of Goa, an extensive array of over a thousand temples and shrines awaits exploration.
These sacred sites are not only significant for their historical and cultural value but also serve as focal points for spiritual practices and communal gatherings.
Despite the region's rich religious heritage, continuous efforts are underway to uncover and identify additional temples and shrines, reflecting the ongoing exploration and preservation of Goa's diverse cultural landscape.
Destinations like Goa offer more than just beaches, boasting rich heritage, diverse cuisine, and Ekadasha Teertha, further enriching the traveller’s journey.
Today tourism is becoming more than just a vacation. It's about connecting with the culture and environment of the places we visit.
Over time, tourism has become a big industry, especially with advancements in technology. But now, there's a growing awareness of the negative impact it can have on the environment and local communities.
Regenerative tourism is about traveling with a purpose – not just to see new places, but to make a difference in the world.
That's where the idea of the 'pilgrim-tourist' comes in. It's a new way of traveling that combines the best of both tourism and pilgrimage. It's about respecting the places we visit and making sure we leave a positive mark. In essence, the pilgrim-tourist heralds a new era in travel philosophy, one characterized by regeneration, reciprocity, and reverence.
It beckons a comprehensive re-evaluation of our relationship with tourism, challenging us to envision a world where exploration is not merely a transaction but a transformative journey of mutual enrichment.
As we embark on this pilgrimage of consciousness, let us heed the call to embrace regenerative tourism and forge a path towards a more sustainable and harmonious future.
So, instead of just thinking about our own enjoyment, the pilgrim-tourist mindset encourages us to consider the well-being of the places and people we encounter on our travels. It's about creating a more sustainable and harmonious future for everyone.
In a nutshell, regenerative tourism is about traveling with a purpose – not just to see new places, but to make a difference in the world. It's a journey of growth and understanding, both for ourselves and the places we visit.
(The author is Subject Matter Expert (Heritage) - Goa Tourism Board)