Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec. 31: The ITF concluded on a vibrant and jubilant note, showcasing a blend of music, culture and lively performances. Being the festival’s final day, the main venue at ITF Pavilion attracted a massive crowd of families and friends eager to celebrate New Year Eve and revel in the festive spirit. The evening was brought to life by captivating performances from talented artists who kept the audience enthralled, while an array of food stalls offered delectable treats and savories to satisfy every palate. People of all ages were seen enjoying the festivities.
Adding to the charm, stalls brimming with unique merchandise and informative exhibits became major highlight drawing visitors from all corners. The venue buzzed with excitement as people explored from stall to stall, soaking in the festive atmosphere that had been the hallmark of the Island Tourism Festival-2025 celebration organised by the Department of IP&T in association with the Art & Culture and other line Departments. The venue’s centerpiece-a grand stage, served as the focal point for mesmerizing cultural showcases. Children found their own slice of joy at the fun games corner, while others created memories at the selfie stand capturing moments with loved ones.
The Director (IP&T), Shri Vinayak Chamadia, IAS, as the chief guest gave away prizes to the best stall in the Govt. Sector, food stall and general stall. in his brief address, Director (IP&T) extended his sincere gratitude to all Departments, artists, participants, stall owners, security personnel, and the people of these Islands for making ITF 2025 a grand success. Congratulating all the prize winners of the stalls for their creativity, innovation, and vibrant presentation of our Island culture and products, the Director said that their active participation has truly enriched the spirit of this festival.
Accordingly, in the Govt. stall category, the Department of Fisheries bagged the first prize, Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council got the second prize and Department of Tribal Welfare got the third prize. In the food stall category, Icy Spicy bagged the first prize, Malabar Kitchen got the second prize and Zest Kitchen got the third prize. In the general stall category, Dr. Rithika Multispecialty Hospital bagged the first prize, VF Green Factory Aquariums got the second prize and Karan Fabrication got the third prize.
The Island Tourism Festival became a successful event with display of Islands’ rich cultural tapestry. The local cultural organisations who kept the gathering entertained with their exclusive performances in the finale.
At the ITF Main Pavilion, the evening commenced with spellbinding classical dance performances by Kailashpathi Classical Dance Academy and Nritya Academy of Classical Dance. This was followed by an energetic Sambalpuri dance presented by artistes of the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC). Later in the evening, Ras artistes from Youth Service & Cultural Activities, Gujarat showcased a vibrant performance, while Kathak artistes from Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Lucknow mesmerized the audience with their graceful presentation. Folk and tribal dances, rituals and folk music from Chhattisgarh were also presented by artistes of the Directorate of Culture & Language. Musical renditions by Sur Saptak–A Sangeet Academy and a lively performance by Sitesh Live Orchestra added to the festive fervour.
Simultaneously, the Marina Esplanade remained abuzz with cultural activities wherein performances by Sri Sitaramanjaneya Temple Committee, students of the Education Department and Sri Sitaramanjaneya Youth Club were well received by the audience present in large numbers. Folk and tribal dance presentations from Chhattisgarh and Mayooranrithyam by artistes of the Southern Zonal Cultural Centre (SZCC) drew appreciable applause. The evening concluded with an energetic live band performance by ‘Arpan Music Academy’.
At Shaheed Dweep, cultural programmes were held, featuring traditional art forms such as Mayooranritham, Thira, Theyyam/Marakkalattam, Karagam, Oyil and Thappattam presented by SZCC artistes, followed by a melodious performance by Geet Sangeet Musical Group (Karaoke). Similarly, at Swaraj Dweep, folk dances by artistes from Jammu & Kashmir and Karaoke performances by Soul Musical Association entertained the gathering.
At Campbell Bay, audiences enjoyed traditional dance forms by SZCC artistes, followed by a karaoke performance by Event Musical Group. The diverse performances reflected India’s rich cultural heritage and provided a vibrant and memorable finale to the festival, drawing enthusiastic participation and appreciation from locals and visitors alike.