Passing on the traditions of Goa’s most loved fruit, cashew, the Cajuchem Fest brought young minds on an interesting field trip to a cashew plantation. A unique event at Arao, Pompurba aimed to give a first-hand experience of the cashew economy of Goa to young research students of Department of Economics, Carmel College for Women , studying about the feni industry in Goa, the event was curated by Marius Fernandes, popularly known as Goencho Festakar, on Wednesday.
After a COVID-19 break of 2 long years, Marius starts a fresh series of Goenchi Festam for reviving traditional knowledge, empowerment and employment.
It was hosted by Thomas Fernandes, cashew farmer of Pomburpa. The young students enthusiastically plucked the cashew fruit from the plantation belonging to Mr. Thomas and participated in the different processes of feni extraction. Under the expert guidance of the skillful farmer and Marius, the students learnt about the age old traditional method of feni extraction and the various challenges faced to keep this occupation alive.
Special invitee, Maryanne Lobo, an ayurvedic doctor, explained the different medicinal uses of feni besides it being Goa’s heritage drink.
The students also learnt the art of roasting the cashew seeds and extraction of cashew nuts. They were also introduced to a traditional game using cashew seeds which was a popular game of yesteryears.
It was a different learning experience for the students who also acknowledged with deep appreciation the contribution of our Goan farmers and environmentalists who strive to keep Goan traditions alive and who work tirelessly to conserve them for posterity.
Prakash Kamat, Senior Journalist, who was present at the fest, also interacted with the students and faculty of Carmel College.
