PUNE: Shivsrushti, a historical theme park located in Ambegaon Budruk, recorded over 15,000 visitors in the last 15 days. The park presents various aspects of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s life and achievements, attracting a diverse age group of visitors.

Shivsrushti recreates the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj through elements such as the Sarkarwada, which reflects Maratha royal architecture, a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, and several other historical structures. These are supported by stories, paintings, museum artifacts, and various installations that collectively bring the historical period to life. Currently, a growing number of visitors are coming to experience this recreation and draw inspiration from it. As a special initiative, entry to Shivsrushti is being offered at a nominal fee of ₹50, valid only until July 15. This has been made possible by a donation of ₹51 lakh from the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, Pune. Shivsrushti’s Administrative Officer, Anil Pawar, has urged citizens to take full advantage of this opportunity while it lasts.

Speaking about the overwhelming response, Pawar shared, “Since the beginning of this initiative, over 15,000 people have visited Shivsrushti in the last 15 days. With summer vacations going on, visitors can enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned experience while immersing themselves in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj era. This initiative aims to educate the younger generations about Shivaji Maharaj’s history, his struggles, his visionary governance, and the dream of Swarajya he fought for. It is our sincere intention to spread the values of Swarajya and Swadharma envisioned by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. We believe Shivsrushti, spread across a 21-acre campus in Ambegaon Budruk, Pune – 411 046, will reach more and more people“.

Visitors to Shivsrushti can explore sections such as Durgavaibhav (Fort Grandeur), Ranangann (Battlefield), a hall depicting the thrilling escape from Agra, and Shrimant Yogi, an experience that makes it feel like you’re directly interacting with Shivaji Maharaj. There’s also Simhasanadhishwar, portraying the coronation scene, and high-resolution image prints of paintings from world-renowned museums showcasing the life of Shivaji Maharaj. Other highlights include a section on his legendary battles, a replica of the Tulja Bhavani temple from Pratapgad, and the Ganga Sagar lake.

“Additionally, the Time Machine Theatre is proving to be a major attraction. Here, visitors can travel back thousands of years via a time capsule to visually and audibly experience Shivaji Maharaj’s era. Using cutting-edge technology like mapping, holography, physical effects, and a 360-degree rotating theatre, this immersive show brings history to life. Each 36-minute show in the theatre can host up to 100 people at a time, offering a truly unforgettable experience“, Pawar added.

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KOLKATA: Dubai welcomed 2.46 million overnight visitors from India between January and December 2023, according to the latest data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This marks a significant increase from the 1.84 million tourists in 2022 and crucially, surpasses the pre-pandemic figure of 1.97 million visitors in 2019, demonstrating a remarkable 25% growth compared to the pre-pandemic era. With an exceptional 34% YoY growth, India continues to deliver the highest number of international visitors from a single market. This robust influx of Indian tourists contributed significantly to Dubai’s record-breaking tourism performance in 2023.

The growth aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, launched just over a year ago by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

As India stands as the top source market for Dubai, DET is actively participating in SATTE 2024, India’s leading trade exhibition. The event helps showcase Dubai’s offerings to attract new and repeat visitors and provides a platform for the Indian travel trade to connect with Dubai stakeholders including airlines, destination management companies, hotels and resorts, and attractions in Dubai, fostering valuable partnerships.

Dubai introduces a Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa to further bolster travel between India and Dubai, underscoring its commitment to fostering sustained economic collaborations and encouraging tourism and business ties. This visionary step ensures that the visa, issued within two to five working days upon receiving and accepting the service request, allows its holder to stay in the country for 90 days, extendable once for a similar period, with a total stay not exceeding 180 days in one year. Through this significant initiative, tourists can leverage multiple entries and exits, providing operational flexibility for business engagements, leisure travel, and seamless connectivity.

Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head of Proximity Markets, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “Dubai values its long-standing relationship with India, and our inbound visitation from the market in 2023 was outstanding, contributing to a record-breaking performance by our tourism sector. As a key market for Dubai, India will continue to play an integral role in enabling us to achieve the goals of the D33 Agenda, further reinforcing Dubai’s position as a hub for business, investment, and tourism. The five-year multiple entry visa initiative signifies a strategic step towards deepening our already existing ties with India. This historic milestone will not only open doors to a longer and more enriching experience for Indian tourists but also provide a platform for increased economic collaboration. It is also a testament to Dubai’s commitment to India and the infinite possibilities that can be explored between the UAE and the sub-continent. With exceptional flight connectivity and our ongoing commitment to the Indian market, we are confident that our upcoming initiatives will further amplify awareness about Dubai’s diverse offerings, multicultural setting, and abundance of hotels and attractions, continuing to make it the top travel choice for Indian tourists.”

Dubai welcomed more tourists than ever before in 2023, attracting 17.15 million international overnight visitors over the year, according to the latest data published by DET. Representing a 19.4% YoY growth over the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022, last year’s figure also exceeded the previous record of 16.73 million visitors registered in 2019.

As a testament to Dubai’s diverse offerings and excellence in hospitality and dining, as well as its commitment to safety and security and providing exceptional service at all touchpoints, Dubai was recognized for the third consecutive year as the No.1 global destination in Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations Awards 2024. This milestone is based on millions of global travellers’ reviews between 1 October 2022 and 30 September 2023.

UAE and India stand as key economic partners, with a relationship deeply rooted in centuries-old cultural exchanges, diplomatic cooperation, and significant trade ties. The diverse Indian market allows Dubai to attract a broad range of travelers, catering to various preferences such as luxury shopping, cultural experiences, family-friendly attractions, and business conferences.

For more information on the five-year visa program and to apply, please visit: GDRFA-DUBAI

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