People from various states and regions of India have made Goa their home. Over the years, several generations of these communities have been living in Goa.
Similarly, many people from Kerala made their way to Goa somewhere after Goa's liberation. They came to this state seeking better job prospects and eventually settled here.
During the course time, they ended up imbibing Goa's culture and lifestyle while simultaneously staying grounded to their own. And, they also contributed to Goa's economy, culture, heritage, etc.
Here are some interesting facts about the Keralite community in Goa.
Celebration of Onam
It is said that no matter what religion or caste you belong to, Onam is celebrated by Keralites all over the world.
In Goa, too, members of the Keralite community prepare food in their homes and celebrate the festival with their near and dear ones.
Various associations and organisations of this community host programmes and other activities which brings the entire community closer together.
During Onam, there are a variety of celebrations take place at the Sree Ayyappa Temple, Mangor hill, Vasco. Traditional rituals are performed and an elephant procession is held, which is similar to the festivities that take place at Thrissur, in Kerala.
Organizations of the community
As the community is spread across the state, there are several Malayali organizations which attempt to unite fellow members and also contribute towards the well-being of the state.
The Kerala Samjan, Panjim; Sree Narayana Guru Mission Society, Ponda; Nair Service Society, Panjim; Kerala Cultural Association, Vasco, All India Malayalee Association (AIMA) Goa Unit are just some of the bodies in the state.
Says the President of the Kerala Samaj, "We organize various activities to help people of our community at the same time Goa community. We celebrate festivals like Onam, Christmas and others, while at the same, organise activities like blood donation camps, help those in need and other activities."
Languages spoken
It is quiet fascinating to see that most of these families, who live in Goa, are quiet well-versed with the Konkani language, and, can speak it fluently.
During the 2011 census, it was learnt that in Goa, there were around 12,983 persons who spoke Malayalam, which was around 0.89%. The largest distribution of population was in the urban areas of Goa (11,205 persons) and the rural areas had a population of around 1,778. And, Mormugao, at that point, had around 3,579 people talking Malayalam. Followed by Tiswadi (2,327), Salcete (2,293), Ponda (1,930) and Bardez (1,550).
Food & restaurants
While, there are similarities in the cuisine of Goa and Kerala, you will also find many restaurants in the state serving delicious Keralite food. Some which are worth trying are Mallu Republic, Panjim; Kerala Café restaurant, Panjim; Jeni's Restaurant Spice of Kerala, Dabolim, etc. Here, you will find a variety of dishes to choose from including Thattukada Chicken Fry, Chicken Stew, Malabar Parotta, Appam, Chicken Kanthari, Egg Malabar Masala, Green Peas Masala, Mix Veg Malabar Masala, Thattukada Chicken Fry, Chicken Thenga Varutharacha Curry, Chicken Kanthari, Mallus Chicken (Chef Special), Beef Kanthari, Mutton Coconut Fry to name a few.
