Imagine the aroma of sun-dried fish mingling with exotic spices, the cheerful chatter of vendors and the sight of colourful baskets overflowing with traditional Goan delights.
Well, in Margao, the Purumentachem Fest, an annual cultural celebration, provides you with all this and more.
The week-long fair transforms the area into a lively marketplace with stalls selling monsoon essentials — dried fish, pickles, spices, sausages and traditional sweets like laddoos, kaddio boddio and much more.
For those who haven’t been to this cultural fair, there is an opportunity waiting, the 'Margao Cultural Walk – Purument Edition', organised by Soul Travelling will guide you through the fair.
“Being the commercial capital of Goa, thousands of people cross through Margao every day, but not many have truly understood the incredible history that is steeped in every lane, house and tradition. With Soul Travelling, you discover that hidden charm,” says Kiyara Da Costa, Marketing Associate of Soul Travelling.
SUGGESTION: Wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking trail. Carry a water bottle and sunglasses. Photography is allowed, however be mindful and respectful while capturing the surroundings. This trail is suitable for all, including children and senior citizens.
TRADITION ETCHED IN GOAN HEARTS
Rajat Rane, Ambassador at Soul Travelling, says “Purumentachem Fest started back in the day when people used to stock up on provisions, anticipating or keeping the upcoming monsoons in mind.”
“The three months of the monsoons prevented people from going outdoors and buying daily kitchen provisions. It's a fun get together and it's great for children, too. Guests can witness unique ancient traditions, a heritage that is still maintained by people who come from the villages.”
BONDING BAZAAR
More than just a way to prepare for the rains, the festival is a powerful expression of Goan heritage. It strengthens community bonds and supports local livelihoods, as small vendors, farmers and home-based producers benefit from increased sales.
Despite lifestyle changes, the Purumentachem Fest continues to be a vital economic and cultural pillar for Margao and beyond. The Purumentachem Fest in Margao is more than a cultural tradition, it’s a vital socio-economic system that supports and sustains the local community in tangible ways ahead of the monsoon.
'Purumentachem Fest' started back in the day when people used to stock up on provisions, anticipating or keeping the upcoming monsoons in mind.
Rajat Rane, Ambassador at Soul Travelling
SNEAK PEEK OF WHAT'S IN STORE
The Purumentachem Fest is a special addition to the 'Margao Cultural Walk' trail, where the trail begins at the Holy Spirit Church, taking in its history and the grounds, houses and stories that surround it.
It is followed by a walk around the Old Market where vendors, fisherfolk and home-based producers sell a variety of goods, including dried fish, choris, sweets, baskets etc.
From there, the trail heads to the fair to witness the colourful festivities of the Purumentachem Fest. After that, a guide through the colourful lanes of Comba, the Abbe Faria road, narrating the traditions of the people, and their ways of life.
The trail ends at a Goan cafe to sample some delicious local refreshments.
SUGGESTION: Wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking trail. Carry a water bottle and sunglasses. Photography is allowed, however be mindful and respectful while capturing the surroundings. This trail is suitable for all, including children and senior citizens.
DETAILS
WHAT: Margao Cultural Walk, Purument Edition
WHERE: Margao
WHEN: Till June 15, 2025
STARTING POINT: Holy Spirit Church, Margao
TIMINGS: 4 pm to 6.30 pm
TO REGISTER: +91 9529490245 or visit www.soultravelling.in
