Nay Maldives, Yay Maravante: Celebs unveiling Bharat's hidden gems amid controversy

The repercussions of strained relations between India and the Maldives have unexpectedly given rise to a newfound appreciation for the hidden coastal treasures within India itself. In response to the Maldives controversy, domestic celebrities have opted to showcase the mesmerizing beauty of India’s unexplored beaches, symbolized by the enchanting ‘beach like a tree.’ Through the power of social media, these picturesque landscapes, particularly those along Karnataka’s Udupi shoreline, have resonated globally, redirecting attention to the scenic wonders that had previously gone unnoticed.

Former cricketer Virender Sehwag has sparked a wave of interest in the pristine beaches of India, challenging the allure of the Maldives. Sharing captivating images on social media platforms, Sehwag highlighted the beauty of lesser-known coastal destinations, unveiling the hidden treasures of the Indian shoreline.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Sehwag wrote, “Whether it be the beautiful beaches of Udupi , Paradise Beach in Pondi, Neil and Havelock in Andaman, and many other beautiful beaches throughout our country, there are so many unexplored places in Bharat which have so much potential with some infrastructure support. Bharat is knowing for converting all Aapda into Avsar, and this dig at our country and our Prime Minister by Maldives ministers is a great Avsar for Bharat to create just the necessary infrastructure to make them attractive to tourists and boost our economy. Please do name your favourite unexplored beautiful places.”

The picturesque Maravante in Udupi, the Paradise Beach in Puducherry, and the serene Neil and Havelock in Andaman are just a few gems showcased by Sehwag.

Sehwag, known for his dynamic approach, turned the spotlight on the unexplored beauty of Indian beaches, urging followers to name their favorite hidden paradises. His post received overwhelming support, especially from North Indian enthusiasts who embraced the idea of exploring South Indian tourist destinations including unique Maravante beach.

Maravante beach, where the sea graces one side while a river flows gently on the other

Maravante beach’s distinctive scenery, unmatched elsewhere in the country, offers an ideal setting for various activities such as long walks, jogging, sunbathing, and relaxation. The Souparnika River, close to the sea, provides opportunities for boating and kayaking, attracting adventure enthusiasts from October to May.

Notably, Maravante stands out with its absence of a delta point, a rare feature contributing to its charm. The scenic bridge connecting Maraswamy temple to Kudru enhances the overall experience, showcasing the diversity of the region.

Sehwag also acknowledged the netizens’ queries, emphasizing the allure of Udupi’s seaside resorts, temples, and delectable cuisine. With this newfound attention, these hidden paradises promise to become sought-after destinations, adding to India’s rich tapestry of travel experiences.