Three pictorial brochures celebrating Punjab’s cultural heritage were unveiled at Sutton House of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) on World Tourism Day. The occasion was marked by the presence of the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, and the State Information Commissioner, Mr. Harpreet Sandhu, who released the brochures in the company of university officers.

Prepared under a project of the District Administration, Ludhiana, the brochures showcase three iconic sites: the Museum of Social History of Rural Punjab at PAU, Maharaja Duleep Singh Memorial at Bassian Kothi, and Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum in Ludhiana. The release also tied into this year’s theme, Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, a reminder of tourism’s power to act as an agent of positive change.

The Museum of Social History of Rural Punjab, Dr. Gosal pointed out, stands as a remarkable attempt to preserve the essence of the state’s culture and history. Its architecture draws inspiration from old towns such as Sultanpur Lodhi, Jagraon, Sunam, and Rahon, and within its walls lie rare treasures of ethnology, archaeology, folk arts, and traditional crafts. More than a display space, it has become a centre of research and pride for Punjab.

International recognition has also flowed from this effort. The museum hosted the 2023 International Conference of Agricultural Museums in partnership with the International Association of Agricultural Museums, a first in Asia. Such milestones, Dr. Gosal emphasized, prove that agri-tourism holds as much promise as medical or trade tourism, offering people a direct connection to Punjab’s agrarian roots while inspiring the younger generation to value their heritage.

Equally striking were Mr. Harpreet Sandhu’s reflections on the sites featured in the brochures. The Museum of Social History of Rural Punjab, he noted, offers an authentic window into rural life, while the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum captures the martial glory of Punjab and keeps alive a spirit of patriotism.

Bassian Kothi, Mr. Sandhu observed, carries a particularly moving legacy. It was here that the last Sikh ruler, Maharaja Duleep Singh, spent his final night in Punjab before being taken into captivity by the British. The site embodies both tragedy and resilience, making it vital to preserve for future generations. He added that World Tourism Day is a timely reminder that heritage sites are not just relics of the past but bridges of memory and inspiration that must be safeguarded and celebrated.