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The evening saw some spectacular dance performance by international belly dancers, a fantastic singing performance by the versatile Usha Uthup reinforcing the DSF's motto of "One World-One Family", breathtaking fire dancers and exhilarating fireworks at the backdrop of the magnificent backwaters of Kerala.
Launching the Dubai Shopping Festival in India for the first time from Kerala, Ms. Laila Suhail, Chief Marketing Officer, DSF said, "Kerala and Dubai have relations that extend beyond boundaries. This relationship was established much before the 13th century when Arab traders entered the scenic South Indian state. Today Kerala has a substantial stake in Dubai and the unveiling of DSF here is our recognition of the fact."
Reiterating the connection between Kerala & Dubai, the honourable Law Minister Shri M. Vijaykumar said,
"We are thrilled and honoured to host the India launch of DSF in Kerala. India and Kerala have had relations that date back many centuries. This decision by the Government of Dubai will help reinforce the ties and ensure a more fruitful and endearing relationship in the future. The DSF is one of the most spectacular shopping festivals in the world and it not only helps bring communities together, but the entire world feels like one large family during DSF."
The minister also launched the official Malayalam portal of DSF titled www.entedsf.com that will provide all details of DSF including winners, hotel arrangements, airline availability and more.
After announcing details of DSF 2006-07, Mr. Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director, Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group (DGJG) unveiled the DSF special diamond pendant priced at 1,100 Dhs (Rs. 13,035/-) and remarked, "Total annual gold demand in India is pegged at 800 tonnes out of which Kerala enjoys a whopping 45% share (nearly 360 tonnes). Besides this Keraliites form nearly 40% (1.04 million) of the estimated 2.6 million expatriates in the UAE. During DSF a lot of families from Kerala visit their working members and participate in the festivities. By focusing on Kerala, we can expect to reach out to close to 5 million people who have a direct association with Dubai through their family members."
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Cherian Phillip - Chairman KTDC said, "We welcome this initiative by DSF & DGJG to consider Kerala for launching the DSF in India. We are honoured to host these special dignitaries from Dubai on this momentous occasion and hope this can result in a long and mutually enriching partnership."
Anne-Birte Stensgaard, Senior News Editor
