Chandigarh, Oct 18 (IANS): Stalls put up by traders from Afghanistan selling items like 'mamras', a premium quality almond, and other dry fruits were a big hit with the people visiting the 24th edition of the four-day CII Chandigarh Fair that opened here on Friday.

With Diwali round the corner, there is huge demand for dry fruits and the Afghani stalls are turning out to be the people's first choice.

Saffron, almonds, walnuts, black raisin, dried apricot and pistachios are some of the items which are in great demand, traders from Afghanistan said.

"Afghani 'mamras' are premium quality almonds available in the range of Rs 1,500-5,000 per kg. So are sun dried apricots that are available for Rs 1,200 per kg. Atrger, walnuts, raisins, including black ones, and pistachios are in great demand," said Abdul Azeez, a trader from Afghanistan.

Azeez said he has been participating in the CII Chandigarh Fair for the past 12 years.

"I bring products from Afghanistan and sell them in big metros like Delhi, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. People of India shower their love on Afghani people. Not for a single moment do we get a feeling that we are out of home," he said.

Another trader, Hamid, is also offering dry fruits and other famous products from Afghanistan.

Besides, people visiting his stall make queries about premium quality saffron, 10 grams of which is available for Rs 3,000.

"We have also brought pure honey and people are liking it," Hamid said.