Thiruvananthapuram, April 14 (IANS): The Kerala government will organise an event here to showcase the livelihood, food habits, art and craft, and culture of tribals.

In order to integrate 35 tribal communities in the state with the mainstream, the government will organise a six-day event starting Friday. During the event, the government will also showcase their festivals and traditional medicines.

This is for the first time such an elaborate event will be held with the aim to ensure they do not fall prey to anti-social elements, state Minister for Forests and Environment Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan told reporters here on Tuesday.

The tribals should come out of forests and join the event, Radhakrishnan said.

There are around 4.85 lakh tribals in the state with 31 percent in the hilly districts of Wayand, 11 percent in Idukki followed by 10 percent each in Kasargode and Palakkad.

"Around 350 tribals will take part in the event on the opening day. The event would be held on a 200 feet long stage and natural settings would be created there," said Surya Krishnamoorthy, event choreographer.

"We are spending Rs.2 crore for the event and will bear all the expenses of tribals. They will stay in the village built for the 35th National Games. All those taking part in the event will also be paid," said Radhakrishnan.