HUNDREDS of birds and animals will be showcased in a carnival near Arad Fort this weekend.
Around 100 Bahraini breeders have registered to be part of the new two-month-long weekly ‘Paradise on Earth Festival’ which will feature love birds, canaries, pigeons and chicken alongside rabbits and other animals.
The event replaces the original Wednesday Market which was popular in the 1900s and held near the Manama Central Market Bus Station, before the sellers moved to the Isa Town Traditional Market Complex.
However, since the outbreak of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and the closure of the flea market in Isa Town in March last year, the business had almost ended.
Mr Al Meghawi
Plans to hold the new event are the brainchild of Arad councillor Ahmed Al Meghawi, and the Muharraq Municipal Council yesterday unanimously voted to give the project the green signal.
“I have already taken the necessary permissions from the ministries and government bodies concerned, and local bird and animal breeders have been invited to take part in the event,” said Mr Al Meghawi.
“The event will not just be a platform for the breeders to showcase and offer for sale animals and birds, but it also aims to attract locals, expatriate residents and tourists to witness beauty first-hand and even touch, cuddle and play with pets.”
Meanwhile, bird breeders group leader Mohammed Al Hamer said most of the exhibited animals will be home-bred.
“For decades we have taken good care of our birds whether it is cleaning, feather care, medical attention and even food and the evidence is that our home collections are unmatched regionally as we garner top awards on a regular basis,” said the 62-year-old.
“Forty-five years ago, my dad took me to the Wednesday Market and bought me a pigeon; it then became two and three until I lost count.
“It was never about my dad anymore and I would take the public bus from Muharraq to Manama to just spend some time with the birds.”
Mr Al Hamer said birds and animals are like family.
“In every home in Bahrain there is a pet, whether it is a love bird, canary, rabbit or a dog.
“It is the culture of loving and caring that sees bird cages or coops on rooftops, in the veranda, backyard or at the front door.”
He added that the new market will be strictly monitored against violations.
“No banned birds or animals will be featured at the event.
“Government representatives will be present round the clock to check on us but, with or without their presence, it is a community commitment to showcase only licensed birds and animals.”
Also available at the festival will be food for birds and animals, and fresh dairy products. The market will be open from 7am to noon on Friday and Saturday, and it will run for two months.
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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