The jackfruit, that highly sought-after superfood, is rooted to Goan soil. Found in most Goan backyards, this seasonal fruit is indigenous to tropical Asia and is devoured in regions along the western coast of India.
This weekend, Goa’s favourite jackfruit is set to be the star at the community-driven celebration, known as the Ponsachem Fest. Led by Goa's renowned festakar, Marius Fernandes, the much-anticipated event will take place on June 22, 2024, at the Goa Pharmacy College in Panjim.
The festival is a must-attend. Here’s what you will miss if you skip it.
HONOURING THE FOOD OF THE FUTURE
Being climate-change resistant, the jackfruit is renowned as the food of the future.
Be it the meaty texture and neutral flavours of unripe jackfruit that have become preferred meat substitutes among vegans or 'jaffee', a nutritious alternative to coffee, the magnificent jackfruit has delicious potential.
Highlighting this growing popularity of the world’s largest fruit, the festival will celebrate the wealth of Goa’s culture with the festivities of São João and the 24th World Goa Day.
With displays of jackfruit varieties, like rosal and kapo, and offerings of traditional jackfruit preparations like pudde, the event will shower all appreciation on the versatile fruit.
AN INCLUSIVE CELEBRATION
True to its community-led nature, the festival eschews sponsors and chief guests, fostering a sense of collective participation.
Located centrally along 18th June Road, the Goa Pharmacy College, that’s equipped with ramps and toilets, embraces accessibility and inclusion for all communities.
Furthermore, the specially-abled community will give their own touch to the celebration with some mesmerising performances. Going beyond that, this 84th people’s festival also has a strong commitment to zero waste, encouraging attendees to bring their own crockery to minimize plastic waste, reinforcing the festival’s eco-friendly ethos.
DIVE INTO GOA’S CULTURE
A Goan celebration is not to be missed. The state’s musical heritage and culture is something that has always made it special, and it’s no secret that Goans bring their best moves to their festivals.
Filling the air with tunes from her guitar, Dr Glenis Mendonca, a well-known Goan artiste and musician will take on the stage at the festival, along with other budding singers.
Percussionist Bryan Fernandes and local artistes will participate in a ghumot circle.
VOCAL FOR LOCAL
In a bid to empower women and local communities, such festivals are an opportunity to market their products.
At the Ponsachem Fest, there’ll be stalls offering home-cooked authentic Goan delicacies which you shouldn't miss. Chef Maria Dias will also conduct a workshop on a savoury local dessert, called jackfruit pudde.
And that’s not all. The Balcaoacho Gozalli at the festival will strike up conversations among horticulturalist Miguel Braganza, senior journalist Prakash Kamat, journalist Nicole Suares and Dr Gwendolyn de Ornelas, who will share insights into the world of jackfruits, as well as the essence of such festivals.
DETAILS
WHEN: Saturday, June 22, 2024
LOCATION: Goa Pharmacy College, Panjim
TIMINGS: 3 pm to 6 pm
DRESS CODE: Attendees are encouraged to dress in colourful attire and wear kopels (floral headgear) in true Sao Joao spirit, adding to the festive atmosphere
MORE INFO: +91 9049081961 (festakar Marius Fernandes), +91 9422443093 (Prakash Kamat)