G20 showcases Goa's unique culture and artworks

The G20 second Health Working Group meeting, which ends today in Goa, provided a platform to showcase the state’s unique culture and heritage. Goa’s rich culture represents distinctive techniques that are gaining popularity.

Alongside the meeting, delegates had the opportunity to experience the cultural heritage and explore stalls featuring artwork by different artists chosen by The Directorate of Art and Culture, Goa. They got an insight into the region’s unique artistic offerings.

Goan cashew and the feni hold a very significant place in the heart of every Goan and tourists coming from across the world. At G20, the delegates had the opportunity to buy Goan cashews and feni at a stall run by Rajesh Singh.

Artist, Virginia D’Cruz, showcased her work at the event, which included making paper flowers for weddings and gift items made from seashells found on Goan shores. D’Cruz aims to turn waste into art.

The weaving of the Kunbi saree, a Goan tradition for 450 years now, was also showcased at the G20 summit, drawing attention to the art and culture of Goa.

The saree is woven with small and large checks dyed in red and black and is being proudly exhibited by the government at the summit.

“We feel proud to represent our tradition at such a platform where delegates can experience the rich art that we have been preserving and taking efforts to promote our practices of weaving Kunbi sarees,” said Umakant Tilve.

The delegates also witnessed Goan pottery which is one of the oldest professions (kumbhar) in Goa. In Goa, Borde and Bicholim are the two famous centres for earthenware. 

A stall of bamboo art by Vijay K Jadhav highlighted the importance of bamboo and how one can make unique items with it.

Sagar Naik Mule, a Kaavi artist demonstrated his talent at the summit with his exclusive exhibition showcasing his artworks. He displayed his hand-made Indian red pigment paintings obtained from the laterite soil.