Through a series of arresting and captivating photographs, which were screened simultaneously with her talk, Dr. Garimella outlined the imaginative way in which both domestic tourism and international tourism has been developed around the backwaters of Kerala. The boost in the local economy however has remained limited and confined to certain areas. Dr. Garimella also outlined the growth of certain attitudes and approaches against the mode of dressing of international tourists, particularly beachwear. Certain areas in the backwaters, pointed out Dr. Garimella, have been over-exposed and over-publicised in comparison to other areas which are equally beautiful, if not more. By an large, efforts have been made to preserve the heritage buildings and construction and to give traditional facades to even new constructions. By and large, private participation in the growth of tourism in Kerala has been exemplary.

The Talk was followed by a lively interactive session in which the select audience participated enthusiastically.