Gauhati University explores development of Kaleswar Devalaya as a tourist destination

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 18, 2024

The Department of Commerce, Gauhati University, organized an interaction programme on December 16 at the historic Kaleswar Devalaya, located within the university campus. The event aimed to explore the possibilities of developing the temple as a tourist attraction while preserving its cultural and ecological integrity.

The age-old temple, steeped in rich historical legacy and surrounded by fascinating legends, drew intellectuals, researchers, and professors to discuss its tourism potential. The programme was hosted by Dr. Suparna Ghosh, Assistant Professor, while the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Saptadweepa Shandilya.

The event was inaugurated by the chief guest, Prof. Rajib Handique, Head of the History Department at Gauhati University. In his remarks, Prof. Handique emphasized the temple’s cultural significance and the need to balance tourism development with environmental sustainability.

The programme featured insightful deliberations from eminent speakers, including Dr. Amrit Pal Singh, Dr. Tilak Ch. Das, Dr. Gour Gopal Banik, and Dr. Santosh Kumar Mahapatra, who offered diverse perspectives on the temple’s future as a tourist destination.

Prof. Prashanta Sharma, Head of the Commerce Department and Chairman of the session, shared his vision for the initiative. He recounted the temple’s heritage, history, and his personal connection to the site, underscoring its potential as a place of cultural and spiritual significance.

Prof. Rajib Handique and Dr. Tilak Ch. Das stressed the importance of transforming the temple premises into an eco-tourism zone that also serves as a spiritual centre.
Dr. Santosh Kumar Mahapatra advocated for creating a dedicated website to promote the temple and reach a wider audience.

The programme emphasized the need for sustainable development that does not compromise the area’s natural biodiversity while fostering greater public awareness about its cultural importance.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Angana Bora, Assistant Professor in the department. Overall, the interaction programme laid a strong foundation for the future development of Kaleswar Devalaya, with a focus on preserving its heritage and promoting it as a hub for eco-tourism and spiritual tourism.