Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 27: Despite having an international airport, port, and railway connectivity, the coastal region is currently experiencing a notable lack of tourist arrivals. Communal issues have been significant barriers to tourism. However, optimism is rising as Walter Nandalike, chairman of the Daijiworld group, predicts that the days of tourists flocking to the coast are just around the corner.

Speaking at the World Tourism Day 2024 celebration at Mangalore University —organised in partnership with the MBA Tourism and Management department and the government’s tourism department — Nandalike emphasised the profound connection between beauty and kindness. "Beauty is a gift from God," he stated, "but living beautifully is an offering back to God. True beauty lies in extending a helping hand to others, which is vital for achieving success in life."

He highlighted the coastal region’s unique attractions, from its stunning natural landscapes to its diverse religious sites, asserting that there should be no hesitation in promoting it as a premier tourist destination. "Taking risks is crucial for growth," he noted, recalling his own decision to move abroad for a high-paying job in 2007. "Learning from our mistakes is essential. We must prioritise safety in our tourist spots, as once-thriving areas have fallen into disrepair."

Nandalike also stressed the symbiotic relationship between tourism and peace. "Peace promotes tourism, and tourism promotes peace," he remarked, calling for a renewed focus on safety and infrastructure.

Mangalore University Vice-Chancellor Prof P L Dharma, who chaired the event, urged participants to celebrate tourism with love, peace, and harmony. "Rather than searching for peace elsewhere, let’s establish it within ourselves and our communities," he said.

Reflecting on the past, he noted, "People of all religions once lived together without caste distinctions, celebrating festivals as one. Today, that spirit of harmony seems to have faded, and we must work to restore it to nurture the tourism sector, which is in high demand."

Prof Puttanna, dean of the Commerce Department, echoed the call for sustainable practices, asserting, "Tourism is one of the wealthiest industries globally, and we must prioritise sustainable tourism to thrive."

The event featured welcoming remarks from Dr Shekhar, head of the MBA department, and a vote of thanks from Dr Joseph D, coordinator of the MBA Tourism department. The programme also included a special honour for Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld Media.