Ganesh Chaturthi: The unique tradition of Matoli

Roxanne D'silva

The unique tradition of decorating the roof of the place where the Ganesh idol is kept is called a Matoli. The Matoli consists of fresh local seasonal fruits and flowers which are mounted on a wooden frame.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition | Photo: Arti Das

LOCAL FLAVOUR

Matoli items are freshly harvested locally and are sold in markets three days prior to Ganesh Chaturthi.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition| Seasonal fruits | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FLOWER POWER

Sonaki or Harna flowers, used for the matoli decoration, symbolise Goddess Parvati.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition |Seasonal flowers | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

PRETTY PINK

This local flower -- Carvia callosa [Nees] Bremek) -- is a good source of honey.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition | Nature's bounty | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FRUITILICIOUS

This fruit -- Punica granatum L (family: Punicaceae or Lythraceae) -- supplied by the neighboring state of Karnataka and Maharashtra is available in plenty in the Goan markets. The fruit is nutritive and its seeds are medicinal.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition| Nature | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

MELON MAKEOVER

Chibud melons, botanically classified as Cucumis melois, are very important part of the celebration.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition|Garden fresh | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

NUTTY FIX

The Matoli is incomplete without areca nuts (supari). Goa has many supari groves across the countryside.

Chaturthi|Matoli| Ganesh tradition|Auspicious ingredient | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

NEXT: Goa's Shubham Redkar: Setting a trend in decking up Ganesh idols