22 May,2009 08:45 AM IST | | Tanu Kulkarni
KSTDC and BIAL have organised a month-long shopping festival that aims to promote tourism
KSTDC and BIAL are trying to get you to splurge during the month-long shopping festival that marks BIAL's first anniversary.
Bangalore International Airport Limited and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation are offering discounts and alternative offers not just for travellers at BIA but others too in an attempt to shore up tourism.
As a result, the airport has become a getaway, attracting those on their way to the city outskirts or even cruising along the highway.
A replica of the Golden Chariot has been set up, showcasing Karnataka's culture. There are five stalls in the plaza, set up by Coffee Board, Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation, Karnataka Leather Industries Development Corporation Limited, Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation and Odyssey.
To attract crowds, there are cultural programmes from 6 to 11 pm during weekends. "It's not only the travellers but many from the city also who come to watch these performances," says Leela who is managing the craftu00a0 stall at the festival.
"Our main intention is to make people aware of Karnataka's culture," she adds.
Apart for the stalls outside the terminal, all retail stores inside are also giving discounts so that people can shop till the very last minute. In fact, one woman was so busy shopping that she missed her flight.
Sales talk
The mood among the sales people is varied. Abhilash, the sales head of Odyssey, says: "Over the past few months, we saw a dip in sales but hopefully our business will pick up with promotional events like this."
However, in spite of all the enthusiasm, KSIC sales officer Raghuram says: "A little more publicity can make the festival a grand success."
Raghuram admits that the festival is a great medium to highlight Karnataka's heritage but says "it must be conducted on an ongoing basis and not just for a month".
Shopping draws
If you spend over Rs 300, you get a coupon and the chance to participate in the lucky draw.
The grand prize is a 7-night, 8-day package for a family of four on the Golden Chariot.u00a0 Jet Airways giving awayfree return tickets to weekly winners.
Praise on the go
What some of the passengers had to say about the initiative: Paul Chacko, who works in a marketing agency, says: "This one-month festival will not just help in sales but will also bring about awareness."
Asiomar, a student who just returned from an entrance exam, says: "This is a very innovative way of advertising. This festival is adding to the beauty of BIAL. The replica of the stone chariot and the performances bring glimpses of Karnataka's glorious culture."
