Mangaluru: Pilikula Nisargadhama’s Lake Garden will host a Matsya Mela and fish stocking programme on Sunday, October 25, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the coastal region’s fishing traditions and seafood cuisine.
The annual event will feature the release of around 20,000 fish fingerlings into the lake, a sale of fresh fish to the public and a special food festival showcasing a variety of seafood delicacies.
Organised as part of Pilikula’s efforts to promote the fishing heritage and culture of coastal Karnataka, the programme is expected to attract visitors from Mangaluru and surrounding areas.
20,000 fish fingerlings to be released
As part of the fish stocking programme, around 20,000 fingerlings of catla, tilapia and rohu will be released into the lake at Lake Garden.
The initiative dates back to 1996 and has been organised annually. The fish are allowed to grow in the lake before being sold to the public, making the programme an opportunity for visitors to learn about fish rearing and the region’s traditional fishing practices.
The initiative also connects visitors with the importance of inland fisheries and the role of fish resources in the coastal region’s food culture.
Fresh fish sale from 8.30 am
Fresh fish will be available for sale from 8.30 am on Sunday at a price of Rs 160 per kg.
According to the organisers, the sale is not intended to generate profit. Instead, it aims to familiarise visitors with the fishing traditions and food culture of coastal Karnataka.
The annual programme has become an occasion for the public to experience the fish stocking activity and purchase fish as part of their visit to Pilikula Nisargadhama.
Seafood festival to feature local delicacies
A special food festival will also be held alongside the fish sale, with a range of freshly prepared fish dishes on offer.
Prominent hotels from Mangaluru and the KFDC mobile canteen will participate in the event. Visitors will have the opportunity to sample seafood preparations associated with the coastal region, adding a culinary attraction to the annual programme.
The combination of fish sales and freshly prepared seafood is expected to make the event appealing to families and food enthusiasts.
Arrangements made to manage crowds
In view of the large crowds recorded during previous editions, the organisers have arranged the fish sale and food stalls near the outer entrance of Lake Garden. The arrangement is intended to make access more convenient for visitors.
The organisers have appealed to people from Mangaluru and neighbouring areas to attend the Matsya Mela in large numbers and make the programme a success.
With the fish stocking activity, fresh fish sale and seafood festival planned for the day, the event will offer visitors an opportunity to explore an aspect of the region’s fishing heritage while enjoying local cuisine.