India's First Disneyland-Style Park Proposed In Manesar, Haryana

The National Capital Region (NCR) is set to welcome India's first Disneyland-style amusement park, with the Haryana government proposing a 500-acre entertainment destination in Manesar. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini made the announcement on Thursday, calling it a "game-changer" for the state's tourism and economic landscape.Strategically located along the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway and the Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor, the park will be easily accessible from Delhi and other major cities. The project is expected to bring significant investment, generate thousands of jobs, and boost sectors like hospitality, entertainment, and real estate in the Manesar and Pachgaon region.The theme park is part of a broader vision to establish Haryana as a global cultural and tourism hub, akin to cities like Paris, Tokyo, and Orlando that host world-famous Disney parks. While the Haryana government has not yet confirmed a formal agreement with the Walt Disney Company, officials claim all necessary communications with stakeholders have been made."This entertainment hub will bring economic, cultural, and social benefits not only to Haryana but to the entire country," Saini said, following a meeting with Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi.In addition to the Disneyland-style park, the state plans to expand its cultural calendar. The Surajkund Crafts Mela, traditionally held annually, will now take place thrice a year with the addition of a Diwali Fair and a Book Fair. Saini has also urged the Centre to increase funding for the International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra.While officials say land acquisition for the amusement park is already underway and talks with global partners are progressing, the announcement has reignited political debate. INLD leader Abhay Singh Chautala criticised the BJP for opposing a similar 1989 proposal and now pushing ahead with a comparable project. BJP leaders, however, defended the move, saying the new plan respects farmers' interests and is limited to 500 acres.A Look At Other Disneyland Parks Around The WorldThe Walt Disney Company currently operates five Disneyland-style parks across the globe, each known for its unique regional flavour and international appeal:Disneyland Resort – California, USAThe original Disneyland Park opened in Anaheim in 1955. Built under Walt Disney's direct supervision, it remains one of the most iconic theme parks in the world, welcoming millions of visitors annually.Walt Disney World Resort – Florida, USALocated in Orlando, this massive complex includes four theme parks, including the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. It's the most visited vacation resort globally and spans more than 25,000 acres.Disneyland Paris – FranceOpened in 1992, this park blends Disney magic with European sensibilities. Attractions include Sleeping Beauty's Castle with a dragon lair, reflecting France's medieval folklore.Tokyo Disneyland – JapanLaunched in 1983, Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney park outside the US. Known for its impeccable hospitality and detail-oriented design, it's one of the most successful Disney properties globally.Hong Kong Disneyland – ChinaOpened in 2005, this park combines Chinese culture with Disney traditions. It's more compact than its counterparts, making it family-friendly and easily navigable.Shanghai Disney Resort – ChinaThe newest of the Disney parks, it opened in 2016 and is noted for embracing Chinese cultural sensibilities in its attractions and architecture. Its centrepiece is the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest among all Disney parks.(With inputs from multiple news reports)Boating At Delhi's Purana Qila Makes A Comeback After A Decade