The tagline for the ‘De Aquaria 11' says ‘an exotic world of pets around us'. It is literally a world of pets, where fish rule. Besides these there are dogs, cats and birds. And not to mention the footwear stall and the halwa stall too.
The fish are , without doubt, the biggest draw. There are throngs of people, armed with cameras, staring into aquariums fascinated by fish as diverse as arowana, gourami, catfish, eels, ghost fish, goldfish, guppy etc. The exotic among the fish got more clicks. “I come to every show which features fish. I have a fish tank at home and I like to keep small fish. I have picked up two pair of feather fish or what is also known as ghost fish,” says Venu M., a visitor.
Guppy and other fish are cheaper compared to the expensive ones such as arowana, which are priced according to their size. One tank with one such fish, for instance, had Rs. 15,000 written on it. Walking in the exhibition hall gave one the feeling of walking on a water bed. The flooring/planks wobbled if anyone even walked fast. But the tanks were placed very securely, they didn't as much as move (as people wobbled on some of the planks) let alone fall. Going by the people evincing an interest price is not an issue and stall owners agree.
Better look
There is ample for those who want to set up an aquarium or fish tank at home or office space. Artificial aquatic plants, plastic fish, pebbles, shells…everything to make your aquarium better looking. There were ideas to be derived too, for instance Fighter fish kept in goblets and wine glasses. That is not all, if you want to start fishing as a hobby then there is fishing gear to pick up. Diving? Then Interdive is there with diving equipment.
Siamese, Persian or Angora cats? There are those at Anzaz Pets. “We breed dogs too but for this show we brought the cats,” says Mohammad Anas. There were other dog breeders with their dogs in cages. Breeds such as Labradors, Pugs, Boxers, Doberman etc, most of which were sleeping. Keeping these dogs cool were strategically placed pedestal fans. The sole Husky there had a huge crowd around it. So did the diminutive Pug pups. An interested family was seen enquiring about the price of a Labrador pup and on hearing Rs. 7,000 they leave with a “we'll come back.” Lovebirds, parrots, hamsters, hens, partridges…there are options galore for those looking for that perfect pet.
After the pets section there is the regular consumer exhibition which appears to give courage to an exhibition to happen! If you are looking for a pet or a plant or even chilli bhajji or a place to hangout (and don't mind being pushed or shoved) then this is your place. It concludes on December 25. Timings are 2 p.m. – 9 p.m. (working days) and 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on holidays.
