Goan Cultures: August 2015

Goa is a state located in the western region of India, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast. It is India's smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population.

Panaji is the state's capital, while Vasco da Gama is the largest city. The historic city of Margao still exhibits the cultural influence of the Portuguese, who first landed in the early 16th century as merchants and conquered it soon thereafter. Goa is a former Portuguese province; the Portuguese overseas territory of Portuguese India existed for about 450 years until it was annexed by India in 1961.

Goa is visited by large numbers of international and domestic tourists each year for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture. It also has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as a biodiversity hotspot.

The state of Goa is abundant and rich in people, culture and festivals. Being an immensely multi-cultural state,

its festivals and people are numerous and various.

Goa, a former Portuguese territory, for more than 450 years is often described as 'The Rome of the East'. It has over the past decades, become the dream holiday destination, for many a foreign tourist. More than 40 years after the departure of the Portuguese, Goa is perhaps the most westernized of all the states in Modern India.

One of the things that make Goa unique, are the laws, a legacy that the Portuguese have left behind. The common civil code, confers equal status to all religions, it favors no particular religion. The law also accords equal legal status to both sexes, in all matters.

Goa's rich cultural heritage comprises of dances, folk songs, visual arts, music and folk tales rich in content and variety. Goan are born music lovers, most Goans can pluck at a guitar or pick out a tune on the piano. Goans are very proud of their state, and are well prepared to fight for its protection.

THE PEOPLE:

Goans, that's how people of Goa love to address themselves. In contrast to the prevalent traditionalism in the rest of India, flamboyance marks the character of Goans. They are friendly, full of life people and nothings seems to dampen their spirits. The holiday spirit of Goa reflects in their attitude. They are easy going people and don't believe in getting into rat race. Most Goans practice 'siesta' i.e. pull down the shutters from 1 to 4 pm and retire in the afternoon. Long isolation due to Portuguese occupation and Sahyadris range on land has led to this distinct identity of Goans.

In Goa, 65% population is Hindus, 30 percent Christians and rest are Muslims and others, but the culture of Goa is a far distinct identity from any of these religions. Proud of their land, they consider themselves first Goans and then Hindus or Christians. Culture unites them and they respect their religion as well as that of others. Religious fundamentalism is something unknown to Goans. You can feel this unique religious harmony at quite a few places of religion such as Damodar temple at Sanguem, the Church of Our Lady of Miracles in Mapusa, the Shantadurga temple at Fatorpa where both Hindus and Christians offer their prayers. They even participate with great enthusiasm in each other's fairs and festivals.

GOAN'S OCCUPATIONS:

When was the last time you bought a garment woven on a hand loom? Have your children eaten ushichem god? Do you even know what it is? Do your children know how your grandparents or our parents lived and worked?

We need this sort of documentation in our topsy-turvy world, where we’re proud of our heritage, yet like to adopt the conveniences of modern technology. Our television-fed knowledge is enough for running our time-starved lives. Or so we believe until we feel a longing for eating dried shark and can’t find it in the market. “Can’t find a good white-washer these days,” we grumble to our neighbours, “Nor a good pig… pork doesn’t taste the same as it did when we were young.”

We need to know what our roots were and why we eat or do or use the things we take for granted in our daily lives. Where does organic unpolished rice come from? How is pure virgin oil extracted from coconut flesh? What was used to raise bread-dough before yeast was available in supermarkets? The salt that isn’t in packets, how is it made? Who harvests coconuts? How is cashew-feni really made? What’s a shendri? What’s a kallem?

Baker....... known as "PODER"

Early mornings, throughout the villages and towns of Goa, The soul rending bugle of the dreaded breadman can be heard. Listen! "PAOPAOPAO!" That clarion call echoes insistently across the paddy fields. Was it really all that long ago, when sleepy villagers would wake up to the honk of the poder? When the narrow bylanes in the towns carried the warm aroma of torrad unde, laadi pao, katrayache pao, poyi, kakana and faati – all being freshly baked at the bakery where some friendly local guys – would hurriedly push in neat balls of dough into the earthen furnace and pull out hot, golden bread which fell straight into the round cane basket? Is it really an old story? Perhaps yes.

Indeed, it needs skill to bake good bread and today’s pao or unde no longer taste or smell the same. Local poders who came on bicycles twice a day are becoming nearly extinct. If at all a handful of them still do come on bicycles calling out “Bai” and “Patrao”, their tone is no longer the familiar Goan one. Traditional bakeries are fast being replaced by modern “cake and bake” shops that serve oven-cooked cookies and loaves of so-called healthy brown or wheat bread – to a generation that grew up on yeast and madancho sur, mixed undo that melted in the mouth and tasted just heavenly when dipped into , leftover bangadyanche humon, chanyacho ros or masuriche tondak.

Goan Fishermen….. known as “NISTEKAR”

The Kharvi, who are also known as Koli, are a community found in Goa. Some are Christians, while others are Hindus. They have various sub-groups, among which are the Arrikars, Kantaikars, Magkars, Pagelkars and Ramponkars. They are distinct from the Gabit community found mostly in northern Goa, although they share a similar traditional occupation.

Found chiefly in the coastal talukas of Mormugao, Salcete and Tiswadi, the Catholic Kharvis generally speak the Konkani language but some use Portuguese. They write Konkani using Roman script. Arranged marriages are common but not prevalent, and monogamy is practised. The traditional joint family arrangements are increasingly giving way to the nuclear family. Their principal diet is rice and fish curry but meat and vegetables are also important constituents.

While the Kharvis are traditionally a significant group among the fishing community of Goa, many of the younger generation have moved away from that occupation and also from the area. They are increasingly to be found working in Europe and the Gulf countries, from where they send money back to their families in India. The traditional modes of fishing in Goa have increasingly been supplanted by mechanised methods and the investment required for this, plus the gains to be accrued, have led to an influx of non-Kharvi communities to the industry. This shift to mechanisation has been encouraged by both the national Government of India and the state Government of Goa since the 1970s, and it had first become evident after the annexation of Goa by India in 1961. Those who remain in Goa as fishermen — the women sell the fish and also work as agricultural labourers — operate in groups of around 25 people. These groups are named and fishing licenses are granted under that name rather than to individuals. The groups share a common fishing vessel and nets, as well as a communal shed, and their catches are divided equally between the members.

The Khumbar:

The age of usage of baked pottery gave importance to the work

of potters. Whole villages of potters were usually assembled around the source of clay. The clay was shaped and moulded on the wheel which was spun manually, the clay product, wet but finished was dried and then baked in a kiln of firewood. Popular among these clay products were "Kunni" - round, wide mouth vessels, "Bhutkule" - pots, Mattulam - small, flat or deep bowls, "Koddem" - deep wide round vessels, also a lot of decorative and useful items were also made and graced every home.

The Chamar

Wooden clogs gradually made way for the lighter and longer lasting leather footwear. the cobbler sole craftsman of his trade with a sharp blade needle, greases and slabs of leather fashioned footwear, made moulds and designed simple but wearable patterns for feet that had a lot of walking to do. The chamar used to go house to house repairing and taking measurement for new footwear or could be found a little distance away from the tinto plying his trade.

The Mahar

Using material like bamboo and cane and using only his hands the mahar, made a variety of products. Baskets, cages, "Konde" - covered high baskets for storage of grain and onion. Wider spaced baskets were woven to cover roosting hens and chicks. Small square, flat baskets to carry flowers were made and used mostly in hindu homes. A triangular open ended "Sup" was used for dusting the husk form rice. These were among the few, everyday items made and sold in bulk.

The Barber

The busiest trader, the barber usually sat under a tree or a makeshift

shelter. Homemade oils for a relaxing massage, a sharp and shiny blade, a wooden or tortoise shell comb, a scissor and a small mirror which was usually held by the customer whilst the barber snipped and shaved away. He also went over to the houses to perform the task and this usually was at the more affuent homes. Other traditional Goan artisans include Shetty (goldsmith), Zo (idol makers who sculpt statues of wood and ivory). Chari (blacksmith), Chittari (Lacquer work artisan), Kansar who makes brass lamps and copper vessels.

Goan Cuisine

Goan cuisine consists of regional foods popular in Goa, an Indian state located along India's west coast on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Rice, seafood, coconut and local spicesand vegetables are some of the traditional main ingredients in Goan cuisine. The area is located in a tropical climate, which means that spices and flavors are intense. Use ofkokum is another distinct feature. Goan food is considered incomplete without fish. It is similar to Malvani or Konkani cuisine.

The cuisine of Goa is influenced by its Hindu origins, four hundred years of Portuguese Empire, and modern techniques. The state is frequently visited by tourists for its beaches and historic sites, so its food has an international aspect.

Some of the significant specialties of Goa are listed below :

1. Bebinca :-

This is Goa’s most famous sweet. This dessert is a multi-layered cake made from egg, coconut milk, sugar and ghee. Cooking a perfect bebinca is considered an art form. A lot of patience is needed at the time of its preparation as the next layer can only be added once the previous layer has been cooked. Each layer is cooked in the oven until it has a light fudge consistency. This can be eaten hot or cold and is traditionally served at Christmas.

2. Ambot Tik :-

In Konkani, ‘ambot’ means spur and ‘tik’ means spicy. As the name suggests, the dish is slightly sour and pungent. It is a delicious gravy dish that is usually prepared from dried red chillies, peppercorns and tamarind. The fish used is normally shark or catfish and it tastes great with plain steamed or boiled rice.

3. Crab Xec Xec :-

Sea food is easily available a Goa’s ideal location is on the coast. This curry is made from grounded coconut, coriander and dry mixed roasted spices, which are added to crab meat. The thick coconut gravy dish is usually served with rice or bread.

4. Fish Curry Rice :-

This is the staple food for Goans and is known as xitt coddi in konkari. The curry is usually yellowish-red in color due to the presence of chillies and turmeric. The tangy and spicy dish can be cooked with a variety of fish, although mackerel is one of the favourites. The dish is served with steamed white rice and is the traditional Goan meal.

5. Chicken Cafreal :-

This spicy chicken made from coriander, lime, green chillies, peppercorns, and mint. It can be cooked in oven or pan roasted. The dish originated from Africa and is usually accompanied by green salad.

6. Goan Feni:-

This is Goans local alcoholic drink

with strong aroma. The word ‘feni’ derives from the word ‘fenn’, which means froth. In fact, a good feni, when poured in a glass produces a little froth, which is an indication of the superior quality of the product. There are two types of feni, one is made from coconut and the other is made from cashew. Coconut feni is less popular and is made from the ssap of coconut palms. Cashew feni is made from cashew apples, which are manually crushed and allowed to ferment. Traditionally, there are three grades of Goan brew. Urrac is the product of first distillation, Cazulo is the product of second and Feni is the product of third distillation.

7. Sorpotel :-

It is a rich stew which is made from pork although sometimes liver, heart and kidney are also added. Preparing sorpotel is a long procedure: first the meat is parboiled, finely diced, fried and then cooked in spices and vinegar. Sorpotel usually tastes better on the 2nd and 3rd day, after it is prepared, once it has had time to mature.

8. Mackerel Reacheado :-

This dish is prepared by slicing a cross section of the fish and it is stuffed with red hot chilly masala called ‘reacheado’. Reacheado is made from red chillies, spices, ginger, garlic and ground with malt vinegar. The fish is them pan fried.

9. Sanna :-

White, fluffy bread that is made of coconut and finely ground rice flour is mixed with toddy, which is then fermented and steamed. These are usually served at parties and special occasions and can be eaten with most curries, especially sorpotel or simply a cup of Indian tea.

10. Goan Sausages :-

These sausages are made from pork meat and fat that has been loosely diced. The strings of sausages are marinated in pickling spices and then sun dried. They are usually served with pulao rice or in bread. These sausages are very popular at feasts.

COSTUMES AND JEWELRY OF GOA

The culture of Goa is very unique and is in stark contrast to the Indian culture. Goa is an extremely secular place, which harmoniously blends the culture of East and West. Unlike the rest of India, Goa is free from extreme traditionalism and conservatism.

Music is a very significant element of Goan lifestyle. All genres of music are readily accepted and adopted by the Goans. Genres such as trance, reggae, western classical, blues, techno and jazz are immensely popular amongst the Goans. The Goan culture also has some elements of Portuguese fused into it, owing to the erstwhile Portuguese rule in the region. Thus, the Goan culture is an amazing kaleidoscope of diversity.

Traditional Dresses of Goa

The pristine and romantic beaches of Goa are immensely popular among the domestic as well as international tourists. The fusion of the eastern and western culture is aptly reflected in the dressing style of the Goans. The various dresses of the Goans are as follows:

o Nav-Vari – A 9 yard saree, which is worn along with attractive accessories.

o Pano Bhaju- A traditional dress worn by women

o Valkal- A string of beads and leafy loincloths , which is still prevalent in the tribal life

o Kashti- A traditional attire worn by the Dhangar, Gauda, Kunbi, Velip and Zalmi tribes along with Kunbi Palloo or the tied knot and saree.

o The fishermen of Koli wear brightly colored shirts, half pants and bamboo hats. This dress has become very popular as a signature Goa dress and is worn by numerous tourists.

o The Goa Carnival is very popular for the colorful exhibition of dresses it showcases. The vividly colored costumes and props, which are based on theme are very famous.

Jewelry of Goa

The salient features of the jewelry found in Goa are as follows:

o Magnificent terracotta and colorful beaded necklaces available have popular markets such as markets in the Anjuna, Calangute and Mapusa beaches

o Precious and semi-precious stone studded bracelets, bangles and necklaces

o Traders from all over the world display their jewelry and merchandise in the beach markets of Goa.

Religious places in Goa

Goa religious places are world-famous and people from across the world come here to see the elegance of famous churches in Goa as well as renowned temples of Goa. The long list of name of churches in Goa consists of Se Cathedral (the seat of the Archbishop of Goa), the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Church of S. Caetano, among others. Moreover, the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which bears the relics of Saint Francis Xavier, is also a famous church in Goa. Apart from Goa Churches, there are several other Goan religious places, including temples, of tourist interest.

Basilica of Bom Jesus :-

This is a catholic church in Goa wherein lays the tomb of St. Francis Xavier who was a well known and important missionary in India. The structure of the church is made of marble and the church is ornamented with precious stones as well as paintings delineating the life of the saint. A very significant aspect of this church is that the church contains the St. Francis’s mortal remains.

Shantadurga Temple :-

This temple can be spotted at 33 Km distance from Panjim. The deity of this temple is goddess Shantdurga. The temple appears to be surrounded by coconut trees, flower gardens as well as paddy fields. The temple is a typical Goan temple and is amazing to behold.

Rachol Seminary :-

This seminar can be spotted 7 km distance from the Margao town that lies in Salcete Taluka. Close to this seminary, there lies a church in the honor of Saint Ignatius Loyota. The church also contains Saint Constantine’s statue as well as his some of his blood and bones. The seminary was a place where a very old printing press was placed in the year 1616 in order to bring up Christian religious literature.

Safa Shahouri Masjid :-

This masjid is the most renowned masjid among the 27 masjids situated in Ponda taluka. The foundation of this masjid was laid by Ibrahim Adilshan of Bijapur. In the proximity of this mosque, you can spot a masonry tank consisting of small rooms. Initially, there existed beautiful gardens around the mosque. But during Portuguese rule, they got removed.