First edition of YAT2018 concludes in Kochi
The first edition of Yoga Ambassadors Tour conducted in Kerala, which started on 14th June at Kovalam, has concluded in Kochi on 21st June 2018 – the International Yoga Day. The tour ended proclaiming Kerala to be the Yoga destination in the coming days.
Association of Tourism Trade Organizations, India (ATTOI), famed for their innovative concepts in tourism industry, was the organizers of the programme. The event was conducted in association with Ministry of Ayush, Government of India and Kerala Tourism.
The closing day kick stared with a mass yoga drill where 56 yoga ambassadors along with people from the tourism and trade fraternity. Renowned South Indian Film Actress Navya Nair also joined the mass drill. Later, the group visited historical places in Fort Kochi. In the evening they had an opportunity to interact with eminent personalities in the tourism and wellness industry at Kochi Marriot Hotel, Edappally.
The entire audience applauded with a standing ovation when the executive members of ATTOI, who have organized the event, came in to the dias. The delegates conveyed their gratitude and love for the organizers with a surprise gift – a tri-color painting representing India with the signatures of all the delegates, along with a bouquet.
“I thank ATTOI and extend whole hearted gratitude for making this happen,” said Rani George, Secretary, Kerala Tourism.
“ATTOI has done an excellent job for Kerala Tourism. The event is not concluding, this is sure going to be the beginning of a new era for Kerala Tourism,” commented Rajasree Ajith, Director, KITTS.
Siril Thomas of Image Factory, who has been with the delegates throughout the tour, along with the photographic team, has been felicitated by the organizers for their magnificent work in picturing the entire programme.
The little wonder in the world cooking reality shows, Kicha was felicitated in the event.
Actress Navya Nair and team presented a dance performance to entertain the delegates. It started with ‘Yoga nritha’, a combination of yoga with Indian dance forms, followed by other classical dance items.
Following the dance programme, Charles Antony, who can sing in more than 15 languages, performed for the delegates.
While thanking for the unforgettable experience, most of the delegates become emotional. “We have been treated like kings and queens. We have come here to get a taste of Kerala, but this was more than that,” said Sandra Barnes from Buenos Aires, Argentina. “We may have a Kerala Yoga Festival in the coming future with all the delegates,” she added.
“We have been shown a part of India we have never seen before. This was the most amazing trip of my life and I am sure that I’m not going to experience anything like this”, said Jeremy Andt from Michigan.
“It’s like my home. I love Kerala and I am going to come back,” said Anant Ankur from Singapore