One stall that has been attracting the eyes and hearts of delegates at the Kerala Travel Mart is one that is set up like a traditional ancestral house, or “Taravadu”. Located right at the entrance of the venue, the pavilion arranged by the Responsible Tourism Mission Society combines stunning traditional aesthetics with immersive cultural experiences, quickly becoming a crowd favourite.
Visitors entering the pavilion are greeted by a massive Theyyam face measuring ten feet in height and seven feet in width. Built in authentic Kerala architectural style, the Taravadu model immediately immerses guests with the resonant sounds of the Idakka drum alongside curated displays of Kathakali costumes, ornaments, and facial makeup like chuttikuthu.
Minister for Tourism and Culture P. C. Vishnunadh said that the government is keen on promoting a tourism model that preserves Kerala’s unique arts and culture while safeguarding the environment and nature. He highlighted that Responsible Tourism plays a vital role in elevating the livelihoods of local communities.
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The pavilion weaves together native art forms ranging from Theyyam to Nettipattam. Beyond observing, visitors can actively participate in activities like Kathakali face painting and mural artwork, while local entrepreneurs benefit from a dedicated storytelling space to share their experiences.
Responsible Tourism Mission Society CEO K. Rupesh Kumar said that the pavilion is usually arranged focusing on ordinary rural life. He added that this time, based on the directive of Tourism Minister, priority was given to presenting the comprehensive cultural heritage of the state.”
International delegates have expressed great enthusiasm for the initiative. Ingrid Salneva, a native of Slovakia residing in Austria, said it is her third visit to KTM and still the event continues to surprise her. She described the Responsible Tourism pavilions as unique and true replicas of Kerala’s living heritage.
Anna Stepanova from Russia shared that she was particularly drawn to the rich colours used in the pavilion, calling it a true reflection of the state’s boundless cultural legacy.
KTM President Jose Pradeep emphasized that Responsible Tourism remains the cornerstone policy of Kerala’s tourism sector, serving as a prime example of successful collaboration between commercial trade and local communities.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere are live artisan demonstrations. Anilkumar from Neyyattinkara, working under the Responsible Tourism initiative, mesmerises onlookers by shaping a beautiful clay flower vase on a potter’s wheel in just 30 seconds. Meanwhile, Hridika Thomas, a self-taught artist from Wayanad who has practiced mural painting since childhood, creates detailed artwork while collaborating with the Responsible Tourism Mission.
The highlight of the pavilion remains the hands-on ‘live experience’ provided to every visitor. Delegates can try their hand at applying Kathakali makeup on themselves, practice shaping clay on the potter’s wheel, or blend traditional pigments for mural painting.
A special networking facility within the pavilion also allows industry professionals and local stakeholders to share their personal stories and industry experiences.
