Page 34 - ARC5005_Book of Abstract_2019_24 Batch

Name: Shruthi M S

Registration No: 19BAR0025

Topic Title: Reviving tradition in a Modern World: Pondicherry’s Art and Craft Village

Supervisor: Prof. Zahra Yasmoon

Synopsis

The Swadesh Darshan Scheme, an innovative Central Sector initiative by the Ministry of Tourism
and Culture, Government of India, represents a strategic effort to enhance, develop, and exploit the
full potential of tourism within the country. This ambitious program has identified Puducherry, a
unique coastal union territory on India's south-eastern coast, as one of the locations for its tourism
development projects. Puducherry, with its distinctive blend of French colonial heritage and
traditional Indian culture, presents a rich tapestry of experiences ranging from serene beaches and
culinary delights to a vibrant tradition of local crafts. Home to over 550 artisans, this territory thrives
on its craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of the locale beyond its physical monuments and
structures.

The essence of Puducherry's identity, deeply rooted in its artisanal heritage, aligns with the goals of
the Swadesh Darshan Scheme to not only boost tourism but also to preserve and promote cultural
heritage. This program envisages engaging tourists in the daily lives and cultural practices of the
local population, through hands-on experiences in village settings, cultural exchanges, and traditional
activities such as pottery-making, fishing, and farming.

This thesis will explore the multifaceted impacts of integrating the Art and Craft Village within the
broader objectives of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme in Puducherry. It will examine how this
integration can serve as a model for sustainable tourism that respects cultural heritage, promotes
economic development, and fosters mutual respect and understanding between tourists and host
communities. Through this analysis, the thesis aims to demonstrate the potential of such initiatives
to transform Puducherry into a destination where tourism transcends mere sightseeing, becoming a
journey of cultural discovery and enrichment.

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