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.