In 2023, Dhordo village in Kutch, Gujarat, achieved remarkable international recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). It became the sole village from India to be included in the 'Best Tourism Villages 2023' list, standing out among 54 villages globally.
The UNWTO launched its initiative in 2021 to promote sustainable tourism development worldwide. This prestigious award is bestowed upon villages that excel in rural development while preserving their landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and food traditions.
The award ceremony took place in the third week of October 2023 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Alongside Dhordo, other distinguished villages included Shirakawa from Japan, Filandia from Colombia, Cantavieja from Spain, and La Carolina from Argentina.
Dhordo gained prominence with the inauguration of the Rann Utsav in 2006 by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi. This flagship tourism event is hosted near Dhordo in a tent city managed by Gujarat Tourism and lasts approximately four months during the winter season, attracting around 242,000 tourists in 2022-23. The festival for 2023 is scheduled from the first week of November to the end of February.
Initially, the Rann Utsav faced opposition from locals and environmentalists concerned about its impact on the fragile ecology of the region. However, over time, it has become a crucial source of income, earning appreciation from the local community.
The Great Rann of Kutch, part of the Thar Desert bordering Pakistan, is celebrated for its stunning beauty. Tourists can experience colorful attire, music, and dance against the backdrop of salt-covered mudflats. Locals offer desert rides on camels adorned with mirror-work handicrafts. During the monsoon season, the desert transforms into a shallow lake, attracting migratory birds, including the famous Flamingo City.
Dhordo is known for its exquisite hand-embroidered mirror-work, especially on chaniya-cholis. This craft has gained international acclaim and is now featured in Western and fusion apparel by leading fashion brands. Additionally, the locals from the Mutwa community are recognized for their unique appearance and the Kutchi dialect. Mud-based mirror-work is another cherished craft that has revitalized due to tourism.
Dhordo and the Kutch region have faced significant challenges, including a devastating earthquake in 2001. Tourism has played a vital role in revitalizing the area, turning it into a symbol of beauty amid an arid landscape. The famous Gujarat Tourism advertisement featuring actor Amitabh Bachchan popularized Kutch with the slogan 'Kutch nahi dekha to kuch nahi dekha' (You have seen nothing if you haven’t seen Kutch). The UNWTO's recognition adds prestige to this memorable slogan.
Q1. What is Dhordo village known for?
Answer: Dhordo village is renowned for its international recognition as a 'Best Tourism Village' by UNWTO in 2023, its rich cultural heritage, and its vibrant handicrafts.
Q2. What is the Rann Utsav?
Answer: The Rann Utsav is Gujarat's flagship tourism event held near Dhordo, showcasing local culture, crafts, and traditional festivities, attracting thousands of tourists annually.
Q3. How did tourism impact Dhordo village?
Answer: Tourism has significantly transformed Dhordo by providing economic opportunities, promoting local crafts, and enhancing the village's recognition on an international level.
Q4. What crafts are famous in Dhordo?
Answer: Dhordo is famous for its hand-embroidered mirror-work and mud-based crafts, which are integral to its cultural identity and have gained global recognition.
Q5. Why did locals initially oppose the Rann Utsav?
Answer: Locals initially opposed the Rann Utsav due to concerns about its potential negative impact on the region's fragile ecology, although it later became a vital source of income.
Question 1: Which organization recognized Dhordo village in 2023?
A) UNESCO
B) UNWTO
C) World Bank
D) International Tourism Council
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is the main focus of the UNWTO's initiative launched in 2021?
A) Urban tourism
B) Sustainable tourism development
C) Adventure tourism
D) Luxury tourism
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: When was the Rann Utsav inaugurated?
A) 2000
B) 2005
C) 2006
D) 2010
Correct Answer: C
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