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METROPLUS LIFESTYLE SHOW 2007

Photos: K. Ananthan

Something for everyone At The Hindu MetroPlus Lifestyle Show

“Samsung” it says everywhere you see. They are the major sponsors of The Hindu MetroPlus Lifestyle Show, along with Ideal Stores, Girias, Ahsan Perfumes, The Chennai Silks, and Chevrolet. The stall, done up in the Samsung colours of blue and white, buzzes with activity as special features of the products are pointed out to visitors. The four-door refrigerators, the LCD televisions, the washing machines and the microwaves are attractively displayed, guaranteed to ensnare.

Actually, there is something about the Codissia Trade Fair Complex that lends itself to hours of fun and, of course, splurging. And, when the products are so varied, they will appeal to just about anyone. Expensive gadgets abound, as do cooking hobs, chimneys, rice cookers, and so on. The furniture is as always interesting with a blend of the rich and opulent, and the functional space-saving variety.

But, if you are looking for stuff to dress up your interiors, then you are in for a lot of pleasant surprises.

There are mirrors with interesting frames, paintings and wall clocks, and if you have a big home, some really nice grandfather clocks. Though not antiques, they are made to look old fashioned and the result is great.

Don’t miss the handcrafted teak wall-mounted showcases that are ideal to house your crystal, porcelain or your Ganesha collection. And, the rocking chair reminds you of your grandfather’s. Beautifully finished, and with great attention to detail, the wooden artefacts in a stall called Timber are worth looking at. A carved and highly polished pallanguzhi from Indonesia just begs you to seat yourself and have a game. Another stall has our own handicrafts on display, in bronze, copper and marble. And, of course, Tanjore paintings. Glass-topped tables reveal interesting bases. They are from Rajasthan, Dilli, and nearer home from Kumbakonam and Chennai. All good enough to be conversation starters.

For trinket shopping, a couple of stalls from Thailand look like fun. They have big beads, colourful flowers and earrings and bracelets in various shapes and sizes. The stall owner is at pains to point out that most of the stuff they have is handmade. Cute hand-stitched baby elephants make a perfect keychain gift for the New Year.

There are rows of hair grips and clips and slides, and some real funky neck chains made with assorted baubles. And, if I were a little kid, I wouldn’t leave the fair without having the old fashioned car and the Harley Davidson bike, made completely of wood. Check them out. There is plenty more, so look out for this space.

Or better still, visit the show, which is on from December 21 till 25, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets cost Rs. 20 per head, inclusive of a gift.

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