It is said that Saudi Arabia is not a tourist friendly country but when I got an opportunity to become a part of the most prestigious Saudi event “ The Jenadriyah National Heritage and Cultural festival” in the end of February 2018 – though there were communication problems because of language people welcomed us saying “ Habibi” (My dear).
The most prestigious Saudi event since 1985 The Jenadriyah National Heritage and Cultural Festival is one of the most beautiful festivals in Saudi Arabia named after the village on the northern outskirts of Riyadh offers a balanced view and a flashbnack to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage. It was inagurated by King Salman in the presence of Hon’ble Exter Affairs Minister of India Smt. Sushma Swaraj. Giving due recognitation to the strategic partnership, close ties and historical linkages between the two countries, for the first time, India was accorded the “Guest of honour” status at the Festival as “Saudi Ka Dost Bharat” (India – a friend of Saudi Arabia).
The India Pavalion was like a kaleidoscope of India’s vibrant culture through a colourful dance and music extravaganza (I was a part of it). the section on ‘ Tradition’ had on display, traditional strenghths like Yoga, Ayurveda, textiles and tourism while the “Modern section” coined as ‘Opportunities in Inida’ showcases the digital revolution, achivements in Space and defence technologies as well as Flagship programmes like “Digital India”, Make in India” etc.
