Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism, Amity University Noida campus organized a Guest Lecture by H.E. Shri Pushpraj Singh, Maharaja of Rewa & Chairman HHR Group of Hotels, on the theme “Peaceful Tourism” on the occasion of World Tourism Day- 2024.
Addressing the students, H.E. Shri. Pushpraj Singh, Maharaja of Rewa & Chairman HHR Group of Hotels, averred, “Tourism is essential for spreading peace and harmony in the society. When one is calm, composed and peaceful, they impress others and make them also peaceful. Tourism brings us close to nature and the fresh air and environment energize our bodies and minds. Madhya Pradesh is one of major tourist attractions in the world, known for its wildlife sanctuaries and tigers. Wildlife not only includes animals but also includes rare plants and trees which have medicinal properties and are used to cure many diseases.”
Providing detailed information about white tiger, he further added that a tiger’s walk is regal, and it exudes the qualities of courage and confidence, which we should also imbibe. He called upon the students to be humble, polite and be good human beings since these qualities are beyond any degree or achievement.
Prof (Dr) Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh, stated, “Maharaja Shri Pushpraj Singh ji has been instrumental in the development of the tourism industry of India and has done commendable work to bring recognition to the country’s leading tourist destinations. The country needs such humble people who work for the benefit of the society and spread peace and solidarity. The role of tourism is very important in the Prime Minister's mission of self-reliant India. Today, Indian tourism is among the top five tourism industries in the world and particularly Madhya Pradesh, which is culturally, historically and spiritually rich attracts a large number of tourists.” She advised the students to learn from the knowledge and vast experiences of Maharaja Shri Pushpraj Singh and work towards nation-building.”
Prof (Dr) M. Sajnani, Dean Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, said, “Today is a historic and memorable day for Amity when H.E. Maharaja Shri Pushpraj Singh ji is present amongst us to encourage and motivate the students. Tourism connects the world economically, socially and culturally, so the development of tourism is very important for global peace.”
Deliberating upon “Peaceful Tourism Practices” during a Panel Discussion, Dr. G.G. Saxena, Senior Vice President, Total Synergy Consulting Private Limited, said, “People are travelling to religious places and serene places in search of peace therefore there is a strong synergy between peace and tourism. “
Dr. Kaynat Kazi, Award-winning Solo Woman Traveller, Author, & Vlogger said that tourism needs to be experienced and felt from the heart. India’s art, culture and architecture is unique, and every region has its own local cuisine, therefore we must take pride in Indian tourism and promote it in the world.”
Dr. (Chef) Rajeev Goyal, President, India Food Tourism Organisation (IFTO), said that we learn to take decisions by travelling to different places since travel plan involves a lot of decisions which need to be made, for e.g., where to travel, where to stay, how to reach the destination, etc. Travelling enriches us with a lot of knowledge and experience therefore it is important to travel and experience new places.”
Shri. Vinod Zutshi, Former Secretary Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Govt, of India said that tourism is the generator of peace and enhances cross-cultural understanding, serving as a bridge between difference cultures and perspectives. It propels economic growth, environment sustainability and conservation and helps in promoting unity in diversity.”