Last weekend, the locals of Quepem came together to honour Goa’s tribal communities and their culture, and I had the privilege of being part of this unforgettable occasion.
The Adivasi Sangatna Kepem, in collaboration with the Directorate of Art and Culture and the Tribal Welfare Department of the Government of Goa, hosted a two-day Tribal Festival on January 18 and 19, 2025, at Copelabhat Deao, Quepem, Goa. As part of celebrating the indigenous communities of Goa, the festival brought the local practices, traditions and artistry to the forefront
The experience made me realise that such festivals can be powerful platforms to elevate local communities, promote awareness of our diverse cultural heritage, advocate for sustainable living, and offer travellers a more meaningful experience by introducing them to a different side of Goa.
An open ground in Copelabhat, Quepem was transformed into a mini replica of a traditional Goan village, complete with huts and canopies crafted from dried palm leaves and hay.
Throughout the area, various stalls were set up, serving as both a medium for cultural exchange and a support system for local businesses. These stalls became a means to showcase the wealth of knowledge and craftsmanship rooted in Goa’s heritage.
One of the most significant aspects of any culture is its cuisine, and this festival served as an excellent showcase of Goa’s diverse culinary traditions. As I entered the venue, my eyes were immediately drawn to the line of stalls offering authentic Goan dishes.
Women dressed in bright red Kunbi sarees served a variety of delicious meals such as Pinagre, Donne, Pattolleo, Soji, and more. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and eager to share recipes and intriguing stories about the foods they were offering.
These timeless recipes passed down through generations reflect Goa’s deep cultural richness.
On the other side of the venue, stalls displayed traditional crafts such as the making of San’n (broom) and Shenri (mat), along with other handmade items.
The craftsmanship on display showcased the masterful skills and techniques developed by the tribal communities, with many of the items made from locally sourced materials. It felt like a lesson in sustainable living and a reminder of a way of life that is closely connected to nature.
Several of the items on display were symbolic of generational traditions. For example, one stall featured home remedies for ailments like cough and fever, which have been passed down through the ages.
Another nostalgic exhibit included traditional Goan games such as Logoreani, tug-of-war, and langdi. Everyone, young and old, came together to enjoy these games, adding a light-hearted and interactive element to the celebration of Goa's customs.
The festival was undoubtedly a hub for cultural exchange. A particularly heartwarming aspect was the active participation of youngsters. Many of the youth were involved in guiding visitors and explaining the significance of the traditional items being sold.
One stall, for instance, highlighted the tools and instruments traditionally used by Goans in daily life, such as farming tools, fishing nets, and musical instruments like the Ghumot and Mhadalem.
The main message stressed throughout the event was the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Goa’s indigenous communities. This festival not only celebrated Goa’s traditions but also emphasised the need to protect and pass them on to future generations.
As a participant, I found the experience incredibly enriching, gaining valuable insights into the lives of tribal communities and the traditional aspects of Goan culture.
If such festivals are organised throughout the state, focusing on being truly of, by, and for the people of Goa, they could serve as a powerful tool to introduce the world to the region’s rich cultural legacy.
These events would also help empower the locals, enabling them to share their artistry, grow their businesses, and reinforce the Tourism Department's vision of ‘Goa Beyond Beaches.’