In a bid to elevate the global profile of one of India’s most significant wildlife sanctuaries, the much-anticipated Manas Festival is set to begin tomorrow at Bamboo Bari, located within the pristine Manas National Park in Baksa district. The festival, organized to coincide with National Tourism Day, promises to be a vibrant celebration of the rich biodiversity, culture, and heritage that Manas has to offer. The six-day event will attract a host of dignitaries, including prominent figures such as State Cabinet Minister Ranjit Kumar Das, BTR Chief Pramod Boro, and MLA Phanidhar Talukdar, who will grace the inauguration ceremony.
Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long been a symbol of India’s natural beauty and ecological importance. The park is home to a diverse range of species, including the rare and endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and a variety of birds, making it a crucial hub for wildlife conservation. However, despite its global significance, the park has struggled with awareness and international recognition. The Manas Festival hopes to change this by highlighting the area’s natural wonders and promoting sustainable tourism practices that can help protect the park’s fragile ecosystem.
The event will serve as a bridge between the local community and the global audience, showcasing not only the park’s incredible wildlife but also the culture and traditions of the indigenous communities residing in the region. By engaging both tourists and locals, the festival aims to create a sense of ownership and pride in preserving the park’s ecological wealth.
Local stakeholders have expressed their excitement for the festival, as it brings together people from various sectors. The involvement of the indigenous communities is particularly crucial, as they play an essential role in the preservation of the park’s biodiversity. The festival will feature performances, exhibitions, and workshops that celebrate the customs, arts, and crafts of these communities, fostering a deeper understanding of their traditional knowledge and connection to the land.
For the tourists, the Manas Festival will offer a unique opportunity to explore the park’s dense forests, tranquil rivers, and vibrant wildlife. The event organizers have curated a range of activities, from guided safaris to nature walks, that will allow visitors to experience the beauty of Manas up close. These activities will be carefully planned to minimize the impact on the environment while providing an enriching experience for attendees.
In recent years, the region has faced various challenges, including poaching and habitat destruction. However, the concerted efforts of the Assam Forest Department, local communities, and wildlife conservation groups have made significant strides in protecting the park. The festival aims to further bolster these efforts by bringing attention to the ongoing conservation work and highlighting the need for continued support and collaboration.
One of the key objectives of the festival is to put Manas National Park on the global tourism map, attracting international visitors and positioning it as a must-see destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts. The park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its designation as a biosphere reserve are significant assets that make it an ideal candidate for global recognition. The festival organizers hope to use this platform to promote Manas as a sanctuary for wildlife conservation while also driving the local economy through responsible tourism.
Officials have also emphasized the importance of preserving the delicate balance between tourism and conservation. By engaging in eco-friendly tourism practices and supporting local businesses, visitors to the festival can contribute to the sustainable development of the region. As the festival unfolds, it will highlight how tourism can play a pivotal role in the long-term preservation of Manas National Park, benefiting both the environment and the local communities.