Let’s Go Lakshadweep, India!

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On January 2nd, 2024, Prime Minister Modi visited Lakshadweep. The highlights of his exploration were promptly shared on X and the Gram. The images were adorned with an innocent caption, “For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list”. What happened next completely changed the face of this tiny island territory! 

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Prime Minister Modi’s Lakshadweep escapade has become the talk of the town, or should we say, the talk of a hundred thousand islands. Our dear PM, set out on a journey to Lakshadweep, showcasing his snorkelling skills and beachside bliss on X and Instagram. Little did he know that this tropical vacation would become the epicentre of a diplomatic social media showdown.

But, as someone rightly said, you don’t poke a dragon in its face. And it was correctly said by someone who saw someone else who tried it and failed. It was like challenging a porcupine for a game of darts, to put it more candidly.

How in the ever, in the wake of this political discourse, it is essential to step back and redirect our focus on how serene Lakshadweep is. Beyond the headlines and hustle of political debates lies a world that remains largely undisturbed by the outside noise – a hidden gem snuggled in the Arabian Sea. Lakshadweep, with its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and peaceful waters, stands as a testament to nature’s unspoiled magnificence.

However, those who are triggered, intrigued, or prospective visitors, you all have come to the right place. We present herein a detailed overview of this remarkable territory called Lakshadweep. 

So, What Exactly Happened?

A few Maldives ministers decided to be the keyboard warriors by calling out PM Modi rather preposterously for enjoying his vacation in Lakshadweep. And in no time, their comments sparked a backlash among many Indians. Like, honestly, what did they even expect? Those rather ordinary posts by PM Modi unexpectedly attracted criticism from three deputy ministers in the Maldives: Maryam Shiuna, Malsha Shareef, and Mahzoom Majid.

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Maryam Shiuna stated, ‘India was trying to compete with Maldives by promoting Lakshadweep and also made a reference to India’s relations with Israel.’ In a similar vein, Malsha Shareef, who derided PM Modi’s snorkelling photo, expressed the view that “Lakshadweep was neither clean nor attractive.” Aligning with these sentiments, Mahzoom Majid opined that “India was not perceived as a friendly neighbour.” 

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This eventually resulted in the launch of a social media campaign with the hashtag ‘boycott Maldives.’ The campaign advocates boycotting the Maldives as a travel destination and urges others to do the same. However, it quickly gained momentum, drawing support from celebrities like Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, John Abraham, and others. 

There was also a noticeable surge in the desire to visit Lakshadweep and other islands in India as alternative destinations to the Maldives. The issue ultimately evolved to represent not just PM Modi and his party, but India as a whole.

Behold Lakshadweep

Image Source: The Good Life with IQ

Well, you could be indifferent about political rows. We don’t blame you. We mean, something or the other goes down every once in a while. However, we cannot let Lakshadweep’s magnificence go in vain. We shall try and make a case for why Lakshadweep is above all the political rows and should indeed be on everyone’s travel list.  

Lakshadweep — the name itself means ‘a hundred thousand islands.’ It is a union territory of India, consisting of 36 islands scattered over the Arabian Sea. Pristine beaches, lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultures are just a few of the alluring characteristics of this place. Let’s scroll down and learn more about this unique land. 

Ultimate Seclusion

Image Source: Unsplash 

Imagine a place where the rhythmic sounds of the ocean replace the bustling noise of city life, where the horizon stretches unobstructed, merging seamlessly with the clear blue sky. This is Lakshadweep, a hidden gem in the Arabian Sea, offering unparalleled seclusion. Each island here is a secluded paradise, providing visitors with a sense of being in their private world. This ultimate solitude is rare to find in the crowded landscape of India, making Lakshadweep a unique destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. 

Striking Beaches

Image Source: Curly Tales 

The beaches of Lakshadweep are the stuff of dreams – powdery, white sands bordered by the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Sea. The purity of the water enhances the surreal beauty of these beaches, making them ideal for various activities or simply for basking in the sun. Again, the clarity of water is so profound that one can easily see the vibrant marine life bustling beneath the surface, adding a touch of magic to the already spectacular scenery. These pristine beaches are perfect for long walks, where the only footprints you’ll find in the sand are your own.

Underwater Ecosystem

Image Source: NDA

The coral reefs (underwater ecosystem) of Lakshadweep are a hidden treasure. As you dive into these waters, you’ll be greeted by a world of vibrant coral structures. This is a home to diverse species of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. Whether you are a seasoned diver or a novice eager to experience the wonders of the deep sea, Lakshadweep’s coral reefs offer an unforgettable adventure. The experience of floating in these warm waters, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of marine creatures, is nothing short of magical. Moreover, Lakshadweep is not just a haven for swimmers and divers; it also offers a plethora of water-based activities that are accessible to everyone. These may include snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and much more. 

Private Sandbank

Image Source: Lakshadweep Government Tourism

For those seeking an exclusive and unique experience, Lakshadweep offers the chance to live out a castaway fantasy on a private sandbank. This adventure is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or families wanting a unique bonding experience. Picture yourselves on a secluded strip of sand, surrounded by the vast ocean, under the open sky – it’s an experience that epitomises privacy and exclusivity. These private excursions can include picnics, snorkelling, and simply enjoying the serenity of your own piece of paradise.

Simply Amazing Sunset

Image Source: Tripadvisor 

You may wonder if a sunset can be this much beautiful. As the day comes to a close, the sky transforms into a canvas of deep oranges, pinks, and purples, casting a warm glow over the islands. Indeed, at a time when the beauty of nature truly takes centre stage, experiencing this legendary sunset is a moment of pure bliss. The sight of the sun sinking into the ocean, especially from the far-flung islands, encapsulates the serene and untouched beauty of Lakshadweep, offering a peaceful experience like no other.

Relax and Rejuvenate

In Lakshadweep, relaxation and rejuvenation take on a new meaning. Away from the tumult of urban existence, these islands stand as serene sanctuaries. Here, you can indulge in spa treatments, take leisurely strolls on the beach, or simply absorb the natural beauty that surrounds you. This is a place where time seems to slow down, providing a perfect setting to rejuvenate your mind, revitalise your body, and unwind from the tedious daily life in one of the most remote and tranquil regions in the world. Lakshadweep is particularly appealing to those who desire a relaxed holiday, whether it’s spent strolling on the beach, kayaking, swimming, or just lost in daydreams.

Conclusion

Talking politics is not our job. However, we are obliged to convey the facts to our Indian folks, without any bias or exaggeration. Thus, in Lakshadweep, you may not find luxury resorts like those in the Maldives, or the pubbing and partying scene of Krabi and Phuket. But you will locate beautiful marine life, untouched wilderness, a rich cultural heritage, and simple locals smiling at you. Oh, and the oceans too, as blue as the Maldives but the prices are just half of it. So, if you’re planning a holiday or looking for something surreal, never forget to add Lakshadweep — or we can say, ‘Hundred Thousand Islands’ — to your list.