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Kutch, Nov 24 (IANS) If you haven’t seen Kutch, you haven’t seen anything – this saying fits perfectly as you step into the endless expanse of the White Rann. Miles of shimmering salt desert, the slow pace of camel rides, the vibrant culture of local Kutch villages, and the unforgettable taste of authentic Kutch cuisine – Rann Utsav has something magical for every visitor. It’s no wonder that tourists can’t stop admiring this land of wonder. “Kutch is breathtaking. The beauty here is unlike anything I have ever seen,” says Preeti Kirecha, a tourist from Gujarat. But this is the same Kutch that was completely devastated in the 2001 earthquake – a tragedy that left deep wounds. Rising from the ruins, the area was rebuilt with remarkable vision. Kutch got a new identity under the leadership of the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi. In 2005, Rann Utsav was launched, turning the region into a global cultural destination. Today Kutch shines proudly on the tourism map of not only India but the world. The recently constructed Smriti Van Earthquake Museum, completed three years ago, stands as a powerful reminder of the journey from destruction to development. It preserves the painful memories of the disaster while highlighting the resilience and revival of Kutch. Tourists often find themselves overwhelmed by its emotional impact. “Walking through the memory forest, you really realize what the people of Kutch endured – and how beautifully they rebuilt their lives,” says Aarti Rajput, a visitor from Mumbai. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, preparations for the 2025-26 Rann Utsav have now been completed. Like last year, the festival is set to welcome millions of visitors and provide them with an unforgettable experience. “We are fully prepared to host tourists from all over the world and ensure that they leave with memories to last a lifetime,” says Gujarat Tourism Secretary Rajendra Kumar. Beyond the enchanting White Rann – especially magical under the full moon – Kutch offers several must-see destinations. From Dhordo, Smriti Forest and the picturesque Black Hill (Kalo Dungar) to the serene Lakhpat Gurudwara, the sacred Koteshwar Mahadev Temple and the iconic Ashapura Mata Temple – Kutch is a treasure trove of culture, spirituality and natural beauty. –IANS BRT/PGH