Chennai, May 30, 2025: The Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin inaugurated the Tamil Nadu Fish Food Festival 2025 today at Island Grounds, Chennai. Organized by the Department of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare, this three-day seafood celebration, held from May 30 to June 1, 2025, aims to increase public awareness about the nutritional benefits of seafood and to spotlight the state’s growing fisheries sector.
The festival is being conducted inside a 1,00,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned pavilion at Island Grounds. It features over 50 stalls showcasing seafood from Chennai-based brands, 15 stalls displaying aquaculture and ornamental fish, and 20 stalls focused on value-added fish products. Additionally, there are live cooking counters where chefs and women from the fishing communities prepare traditional and innovative dishes for visitors. Informative exhibits and cooking demos also focus on the rich health benefits of seafood, particularly the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, minerals, and vitamins such as A, D, and K. These nutritional elements are especially beneficial for children and senior citizens, and the event seeks to raise awareness of their importance.
In his address, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasized the Tamil Nadu government’s initiatives aimed at uplifting fishermen and developing the fisheries infrastructure. Notable efforts include the construction of modern fishing harbors such as the one at Thiruvottriyur, upgrades to key fish markets like Pettai and Chindadripet, and the establishment of new fish landing centers, additional jetties, slipways, and protective sea walls across coastal districts.
The inaugural event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Dr. Anitha R. Radhakrishnan, Minister for Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, and Thiru P.K. Sekarbabu, Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments. Members of Parliament such as Thiru Dayanidhi Maran and Dr. Kalanidhi Veerasamy were also in attendance, along with Members of the Legislative Assembly including Thiru R. Moorthy, Thiru A. Savariraj, Thiru A.M.V. Prabhakar Raja, and Thiru Joseph Samuel. Senior officials like Thiru N. Gouthaman, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation, Dr. N. Subnayan IAS, Secretary of the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries, and Ms. K. Jalalatchumi IAS, Commissioner of Fisheries, participated in the event. Thousands of citizens, seafood lovers, and members of the fishing community joined the celebrations on the opening day.
What to Expect at the Chennai Seafood Fest 2025:
- Aqua Show: Dive into the world of marine biodiversity and learn about cutting-edge aquaculture innovations. A perfect experience for marine life enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
- Seafood Exhibition: Browse through an impressive lineup of stalls featuring top seafood brands, coastal delicacies, and local producers showcasing the best of India’s seafood industry.
- Live Cooking Demos: Watch top chefs in action as they whip up signature seafood dishes. Pick up tips, taste samples, and get inspired to recreate the magic at home.
- Street Food Stalls: Relish mouthwatering dishes from Chennai’s vibrant street food scene, offering everything from fried fish to spicy prawn biryani.
- Live Music & Family Fun: Enjoy foot-tapping tunes, fun games, and entertainment designed for the whole family. Whether you’re coming for the food, the vibe, or the kids’ fun zones — it’s a full-day celebration.
The Fish Food Festival will continue till June 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM every day. Entry is completely free, making it an ideal weekend outing for families, foodies, chefs, and anyone passionate about marine cuisine and culture.
