Prez Murmu: Pondy is best place for spiritual tourism

PUDUCHERRY: President Droupadi Murmu said Puducherry has a blend of "diverse cultural streams" and has carried forward "a vibrant cultural tradition, which celebrates the Indian ethos of unity in diversity." Speaking at a civic reception accorded in her honour by the Puducherry government during her maiden visit to Puducherry on Monday after assuming office as the President, Murmu said Tamil, Telugu and Malayalee influences are visible (in Puducherry).So is the impact of the French, she said.
"The architecture, the festivals and lifestyles reflect the diverse influences blending together in harmony. The cultural vibrancy of Puducherry derives much of its energy from the music and dance forms prevalent in Tamil Nadu. The spirit of enjoyment is demonstrated in Masquerade or the mask festival which is a French tradition. In fact, Puducherry is a living bridge of friendship between France and India," she said.
The President said Puducherry's spiritual aspect makes it one of the important centres of promoting yoga. Puducherry witnesses a large gathering every year to celebrate the international yoga festival, she said.
"Spiritual tourism is fast becoming a global trend. It has the potential to provide a strong boost to socio-economic development of this region. The Union government has taken several measures to promote tourism in Puducherry under the Swadesh Darshan scheme," she said. Murmu said it is interesting to note that Puducherry has attracted different people for different reasons in different phases of history.
Murmu dedicated to the nation an advanced linear accelerator in Jipmer on Monday.
"This equipment will minimize radiation exposure through precise targeting of the radiation. I understand that this machine will increase the capacity of the institute to provide curative radiation treatment. It will augment affordable advanced medical care," she said. She virtually inaugurated a 50-bed hospital constructed at a cost of 10.52 crore under the national Ayush mission at Villianur in Puducherry.