Celebrating The Rivers

Oceans, seas and rivers have always been one of the most mysterious parts of the planet. Its vastness and depth is not yet achieved by the human race. From sea creatures to various living organisms, this fascinating world seems to be largely unexplored by adventure enthusiasts. 

Adventure is an exciting activity or an unusual experience often daring or risky in nature and people who derive thrill out of such experiences are called adventurers. To celebrate the beauty of these water bodies and the spirit of water lovers, Madhya Pradesh Tourism organised a unique event called Jal Mahotsav from 12 February to 21 February, this year. The event turned out to be a visual delight filled with a spectre of art and activities. The main objective of this event was to celebrate the beauty of river Narmada, showcase the cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh and highlight festivities that could become a tradition across generations to come.

MP tourism took this initiative to raise awareness about the importance of water and did that by organising various cultural performances and adventure activities against the beautiful backdrop of the Indira Sagar Dam. Narmada means “the giver of pleasure” and the river truly lives up to its name. Originating from Amarkantak, the river is 1,300 km long and is also the longest eastwest flowing river in India. The river is abode to the oldest known human fossils, world heritage sites and many important chapters in history. Earlier known as Rewa (which means “a new beginning’ in Sanskrit) and Mekalsuta, the river Narmada is also popularly known as the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh. This incredible and unique celebration of water reinforced Madhya Pradesh as one of the most sought after travel and leisure destinations in India.

The event took place in February and brought forward an opportunity to experience the colourful customs and rich traditions of the tribes that prevail on the banks of the river. Through local art, craft, folk music, dance and cuisines, one will be able to experience the true local flavour of the state. For the adrenaline junkies, this was one action-packed joyride taking them from one thrilling adventure sport to the other. Various adventure sports included jet sking, wind surfing, parasailing, banana ride, para motoring, hot air ballooning to name a few. And for the art nomads, on offer was a delightful cultural treat and enigma.

 

This yearly mega event around Madhya Pradesh’s water reservoir is steadily gaining form in the oasis of tranquility at Hanuwantiya in the Khandwa district. The surreal explosion of adventure sports and cultural extravagansa over the serene and ethereal landscape of Indira Sagar was perhaps the perfect juxtaposition reminding people to cherish life to the fullest.

Madhya Pradesh, so far known for its heritage, wildlife pilgrim and leisure destinations, has a new, incredible offer to make – water-adventure sports. The land blessed with innumerable rivers like the Narmada, Kshipra, Shone, Betwa, Tapti, Denwa, Ken, Chambal and many more, is now the new signature in India for adventure sports. 

Jal Mahotsav, the first ever water-adventure sports carnival of central India, was a kaleidoscope of the infinite potential of Madhya Pradesh as a water-adventure sports destination. The event had a plethora of water, air and land adventure sports activities, spiced up with folk cultural performances, craft market, food bazaar, hot air ballooning etc. Jal Mahotsav was hosted at Hanuwantia at Indira Sagar Dam (in Khandwa district, near Indore), one of Asia’s largest man-made water reservoir. Set amidst unending expanse of the water, the Narmada will appeal to your adventurous side as well as fulfill one’s inner desire of being in nature’s lap. Hanuwantiya Tourist Complex is meant to indulge amidst fresh air and the melody of innumerable variety of birds at twilight. It’s the resting place if one is on a family break or wants to spend some time with one’s inner self. The place is treat for lovers who are on holiday and wish to be pampered.

Omkareshwar: 85 kms – Situated on the confluence of Narmada and Kaveri, Omkareshwar is set in picturesque surroundings. The temple of Omkar Mandhata houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in the Indian Subcontinent.

Maheshwar:150 km – Revived to its ancient position of importance by Holkar queen Maharani Ahilyabai, it is famous for the temples, fort, ghats and Maheshwari sari industry. Introduced 250 years ago by Rani Ahilyabai, these cotton sarees are renowned throughout India for their unique weave.

Indore: 130 kms – Commercial hub of MP, also famous for Lal Bagh Palace, built between 1886 and 1921.

Ujjain: 140 kms – An ancient city situated on the eastern bank of the Kshipra river. Ujjain was the most prominent city on the Malwa plateau of central India for much of its history. It continues to be an important place of pilgrimage for Shaivites, Vaishnavites and followers of Shakta, Mahakaleshwar Temple. It has been selected as one of the hundred Indian cities to be developed as a smart city under PM Narendra Modi’s flagship Smart Cities Mission.

The picturesque backdrop entices one with fun, excitement and adventure, with a mélange of mesmerising events and heart thumping adventure. 

Bringing forth an opportunity to experience the customs and traditions of Madhya Pradesh through art, craft, folk music, dance and cuisines, Jal Mahotsav left an eternal impression on people.