PANAJI: Goa is often referred to as a land of celebration of life! That is because the state is blessed with natural beauty and religious, traditional & glamorous festivals. Moreover, there are various kinds of fun events to create awareness and pay respect to the treasures of nature that the State has aplenty.
One of such unique event ‘Cajuchem Fest’- aimed to give a first-hand experience of the cashew economy of Goa to young research students of Department of Economics, Carmel College for Women; studying the Feni industry in Goa.
‘Cajuchem Fest’ was currated by Marius Fernandes popularly known as ‘Goencho Festakar’, at Arao-Pomburpa; and was hosted by Thomas Fernandes, cashew farmer of Pomburpa, on Wednesday (March 30). After a 2-year long gap due to the pandemic, Marius has started yet another era of Goenchi Festam for reviving traditional knowledge, empowerment & employment, states a press release.
The young students enthusiatically plucked the cashew fruit from the plantation belonging to Thomas and participated in the different processes of Feni extraction. Under the expert guidance of the skillful farmer and Marius, the students learnt about the age-old traditional method of Feni extraction and the various challenges faced to keep this occupation alive.
Special invitee, Dr Maryanne Lobo, an Ayurvedic doctor, explained the different medicinal uses of Feni besides it being Goa’s heritage drink. The students also learnt the art of roasting the cashew seeds and extraction of cashew nuts. They were also introduced to a traditional game using cashew seeds which was a popular game of yesteryears.
It was a different learning experience for the students who also acknowledged with deep appreciation the contribution of our Goan farmers and environmentalists who strive to keep Goan traditions alive and who work tirelessly to conserve them for posterity. Prakash Kamat, Senior Journalist, was also present at the Fest.
