KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER
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ISSUE: 205 SEPTEMBER 2010
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Genuine Kerala souvenirs at affordable prices
To address the concerns arising out of lack of genuine and good quality Kerala souvenirs, Kerala Tourism has launched a series of branded souvenirs of God's Own Country. These souvenirs are now available at the first outlet that has started functioning at the Mascot Hotel in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, under the brand name - Culture Shoppe. The inauguration of the first shop was done by the Minister for Tourism, Mr. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. Soon more outlets dealing with Kerala souvenirs would be set up in different parts of Kerala through Culture Vistas - the official agency of Kerala Tourism to procure and promote Kerala souvenirs.
With the arrival of souvenir outlets, tourists coming to Kerala can now without hesitation choose from a range of souvenir and memento items. These would include products made of bell metal, wood, cane, fibre and coconut shell. The exclusive souvenir outlets would also have Kathakali models in wood, murals, elephant sculptures in rosewood and silver and stone jewellery. Noted ones among the traditional Kerala souvenirs are the
kasavu sari,
Aranmula Kannadi and the jewellery box,
Nettur Petti
.
As part of the project, the agency in charge will procure products directly from artisans. Already the state-level committee formed by the government has short-listed 110 designs of souvenirs. Already, 52 souvenirs have been identified for sale and the aim is to bring into market about 250 designs within the next five years. The project besides generating genuine souvenirs bearing traditional Kerala touch would also benefit members of traditional industries, artisans and craftsmen by generating job opportunities.
As part of the project, Kerala Tourism will also undertake periodic monitoring of souvenir sales. New marketing strategies will be adopted by the department to enhance the sales of Kerala souvenirs from time to time.
