KOZHIKODE: Diverse attractions to suit all ages, temperament and purses are the highlight of the Malabar Shopping Festival under way here.

While those looking for adventure can take the horse, camel or elephant ride, bungi jumping or a helicopter ride, the book exhibition and ornamental fish show draw those in search of more relaxed evenings.

`Matsyalankar 2007,' a mega show of ornamental fishes and aquarium accessories, will open at the Marine Ground here on January 1. The show will be on till January 20, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Kozhikode-based National Aquariculture Society in association with the Kozhikode Corporation and the district administration is conducting the exhibition.

There will be as many as 150 stalls of freshwater indigenous fishes and marine ornamental fishes.

Saltwater fish too would be exhibited.

Members of the society, including agriculturists, and traders will join hands to set up the stalls, said P.K. Girish, general convener, organising committee.

Besides the endemic ornamental fish varieties from the State, those from outside Kerala will be exhibited at Matsyalankar. The Union and State Government departments will put up as many as 15 stalls. A major attraction at the ornamental fish exhibition would be the 16 stalls to be put up by the Lakshadweep Marketing Society.

Arrangements have been made for sale of aquarium tanks, related accessories and fish feed at the exhibition venue. Modern state-of-the-art aquarium tanks in which water can be stored without any pollution and the fish feed is let out mechanically will also be exhibited.

Fillip to farmers

The organisers said ornamental fish rearing could provide a fillip to farmers in Kerala who are now facing a crisis. It could be an alternative means of generating income for farmers.

The National Aquariculture Society, besides Government and quasi-Government organisations, are conducting the show to popularise pisciculture with this end in view.

The entrance fee is Rs.20 for adults and Rs.10 for children. Half the ticket fee will be accepted through Malabar Shopping Festival redeeming coupons.

The `halwa' fest is another colourful and attractive stall being showcased at the shopping festival as part of the trade fair at Swapna Nagari.

Traditional halwa varieties will be available.

V.V. Salim, member of the organising committee for `Halwa Fest,' said 10 stalls would be put up at the exhibition venue.

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