The smallest state in India is one of the world famous tourist destinations, widely known for its beaches, nightlife and endless parties. While all this is true, the real Goan culture still remains unnoticed. It’s obvious that about 450 years of colonization has made some influence in the Goan culture, but Goa has a culture of its own. A culture that originated way back in time, before the Portuguese even thought of making ships. One that the Goans are proud of.
Let’s travel back in time Goa has a culture that dates back further to 3rd century BC. A culture that is as rich and pure as any other in the world. “So how come we don’t get to see that in Goa now?” if you’re thinking this you’re wrong. It’s very much visible in Goa but often misinterpreted. The natural harbours and extensive rivers were at the same time, boon and curse for Goa. The blessing was that these natural harbours made the Goan sea routes easier and ironically the same was the curse as the Portuguese used it to set foot in Goa. Things were different since then. The aftermath of colonisation, religious persecution and the torturous inquisition was a lot to take for the Goans. But the Portuguese couldn’t break the Goan spirit. They survived and made through this dark period. Other than the obvious ecclesiastical and a few architectural influences you see in Goa today, there is nothing much Portugal left in Goa.
The culture Goans never forget their age-old traditions and customs. It’s a thing to learn from the Goans how they celebrate their festivals in zeal without any religious barriers. Everybody celebrates everything here. These fun-loving individuals know how to make their celebrations grand with their delectable food, delightful music and various art forms.
The delicacies Food and drinks have always been the soulmate of the Goan culture. The classic Goan fish curry and meals bring the families together. The aroma of coconut flavor in the classic Goan fish curries will melt your soul any day (sorry if you don’t have fish). The coastal advantage clearly reflects in the Goan cuisines as the kinds of seafood, be it kingfish, crabs or prawns, are all freshly caught and cooked. Another festive favorite is their pork and beef roast with Goa’s very own, feni (cashew & coconut). The Goan Khatkhate is a strict vegetarian cuisine, usually prepared during weddings, pujas and other occasions. If you have a sweet tooth, try the Bebinca. This is a traditional layered sweet dish, also known as Bibik. Khatkhate laddu is also a sweet dish, which is dry, hard and crisp from the outside with a moist core often filled with sweet syrup. Do you like bananas? If yes, try the Moira bananas, known as the Mundollsheim Kellim in Konkani, one of the largest bananas available in India. As a continuity to the age-old tradition, the Goans make a range of dishes from the Moira bananas like Keleacho halwo, fries, fritters and more.
Art Goa’s cultural heritage is unique, rich and lively with a multitude of performances and folk festivals. The dance forms include Tonya Mel, Talgadi, Goff, Shigmo, Kunbi Dance, Mando, Suvari, Ranmale, Fugadi, Musal Dance, Romat, Bhandap, Dhangar Dance, Ghode Modni, Dekhini Dance, Morullem and many more. The list is almost never-ending when it comes to the dance forms in Goa.
Clothing ‘Colourful’ is the word that best describes the Goan attire. Pano Bhaju is the traditional attire of Goan women. It is often worn along with some jewellery to complete the look. The Koli fishermen are a sight to sore eyes with their bright shirts, half pants and hats made of the
bamboo bark. The tribes, Gauda, Kunbi, Dhangar, Velip and Zalmi wear loincloth called kashti with a blanket on the shoulders and Kunbi palloo with a tied knot and saree. A display of different types of Goan attire is showcased during the Goan Carnival.
Occupation Fishing is the main occupation of the Goans, one of the perks of living in a coastal area. An added advantage of the coastal area is a fertile land. The Goans know how to make good use of this and that’s why agriculture is also a key occupation in Goa. Long bananas, ragi, maize, jowar, bajra, coconut, cashew nut, mango, jackfruit, etc are some of the major cultivations in Goan villages. People also make revenue from tourism as Goa is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
A home awaits in the hinterland Goa If the wonderful culture and the traditions of Goa look tempting to you, here’s a chance get settled in Goa. Keeping the folklore alive with a blend of traditional Goan architecture and modern amenities are 8 Bairro Alto luxury villas in the hinterland Goa. Set out in the most beautiful village of Aldona, these luxury villas capture the essence of traditional Goan architecture in their very true sense. Read about the Goan architecture.
Note: All the information in this blog is from the internet. Please make any necessary changes, if required.