Thiruvananthapuram: With the country reopening after the
Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a surge in tourist arrivals, especially from countries
that had not seen India as their primary tourist destination. There is a sharp
rise in interest in Ayurveda, possibly because of the beneficial effects in
promoting immunity, The new interest in India and Ayurveda was in evidence when
a group of 40 tourists from Russia reached the Kerala capital last week.

The group, which was in Thiruvananthapuram to understand the
importance of Ayurveda and Kerala’s tourist potential, participated in an
Indo-Russian Ayurveda Conclave, organised by Indimasi at Vattappara on the
outskirts of the city. The Russian team was brought to the Kerala capital by
the Ayurveda, Yoga and Wellness Association of India  (AYWA) in collaboration with the
Thiruvananthapuram Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Russian Cultural Centre Director Ratheesh Nair inaugurated
the conclave. AYWA President Mr  Prasad
Manjali presided.  Indimacy Chairman Mr
Yogi Sivan delivered the keynote address.

The delegation will be in Kerala for 14 days and will attend
classes on various Ayurvedic treatments. The Russian team will also be trained in
experimental treatment methods.