People taking pictures of divers from Philippines dressed up as mermaids
| Photo Credit: KR Deepak
Once confined to folklore and fantasy, mermaiding — the art of swimming with a monofin mimicking the grace of a mermaid — has evolved into a full-fledged sport, performance art, and even a fitness regimen. From the shimmering shores of the Philippines to aquariums in the US and Europe, this unique discipline is capturing hearts globally. Now, for the first time, Visakhapatnam is getting a taste of this underwater spectacle with an exhibition featuring international mermaids.
Four professional mermaids from the Philippines and Spain have brought the art of mermaiding to the city at the ongoing exhibition at AU Exhibition Grounds, near AU Convention Centre on the Beach Road. Inaugurated two weeks ago, the exhibition has become a major attraction, with visitors flocking to witness the underwater performances.
Mermaids at the aquarium on the Beach Road in Visakhapatnam.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak
The mermaids dazzle audiences with their grace, remaining underwater for up to two and a half minutes at a stretch, without oxygen masks. With aquatic acrobatics and radiant smiles, they create an experience, drawing gasps from the crowd.
The mermaid section is part of the amusement fair and has been set up with an investment of ₹4.2 crore. The water temperature is maintained at 32 degrees Celsius to ensure comfort for the performers. Before entering the tank, the mermaids dedicate two hours daily to rigorous warm-up routines, including stretching and breathing exercises.
Kinah, the senior-most in the team, is a certified free diver from Philippines with over five years of experience in mermaiding. “I love the water, and being in it is such a relaxing experience. Mermaiding has transformed my life in many ways,” she says. She shares how the trend has flourished in the Philippines with the rise of mermaid schools, competitive mermaiding, and professional performances in water parks and aquariums.
“Mermaiding is more than just wearing a tail and swimming gracefully,” says Ruth, a certified free diver from the Philippines who is performing in Visakhapatnam. “It requires intense training in breath control, body flexibility, and endurance. It’s a full-body workout that strengthens core muscles while also being incredibly relaxing.”
Beyond the glitz, mermaiding is also being for ocean conservation awareness. Many professional mermaids work with marine organisations across the world to promote sustainable practices and protect marine ecosystems. “In Philippine’s Ocean Park, where I train, we swim alongside sea creatures in a controlled environment that mimics the ocean,” says Kinah. “It’s a way to help people connect with marine life and understand why we need to protect it.”
More attractions
Kashmir themed set at the exhibition
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak
The entrance of the exhibition is inspired by Butta Bommalu, a folk dance form of Andhra Pradesh, setting the tone for a culturally rich experience. Another highlight is an expansive 18,000-square-foot replica of Kashmir, where visitors can take a visual journey through breathtaking scenes that capture the region’s beauty.
The amusement rides at the exhibition near Police Mess on the Beach Road in Visakhapatnam.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak
Adding to the excitement are amusement rides, including the Dropping Tower, Double Ranger, and Double Disc. “We have brought 23 rides this time, some of which feature special equipment imported from Italy,” says exhibition proprietor Raja Reddy. Security has been a top priority, with 64 CCTV cameras installed throughout the venue. A similar exhibition is being held simultaneously in Vijayawada.
Timings: 4pm to 10pm; Entry fee: ₹150
Published – January 31, 2025 03:22 pm IST