Valpoi, Goa – 1 May 2025 –
On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the serene Laudato Si’ Farm in Valpoi, Sattari, Goa, came alive with the vibrant energy of Muddasachem Fest – a celebration of local culture, community bonds, and the enduring contributions of workers.
The event, held from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, was hosted by Fr. Santana Gama, Fr. Felix Lobo and the people of Valpoi, with curation by noted festakar Marius Fernandes, known for his community-driven approach to cultural celebrations.
The fest was declared open after the traditional lighting of the lamp by dignitaries Harold Andrade, Ms. Khan, Carmelito Andrade, Fr. Santana Gama, Fr. Felix lobo, Mr and Mrs Philip Dionisio and Festakar Marius Fernandes This was followed by a felicitation ceremony where Festakar Marius presented a shawl to Fr. Santana Gama and Festakar Marius was honoured by the host with a shawl.
Muddasachem Fest began with the Festakarachi Pasoi – a heritage walk around the lush venue, offering participants a moment of reflection and connection with nature. This was followed by Kottieacho Nach choreographed by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, setting the tone for an afternoon rich in local flavor.
A hands-on cashew bhakri workshop brought culinary heritage to the fore, a forgotten dish of Goa, conducted by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas with resident Lucreda Dionisio and a Khotkhotem workshop by Philip Dionisio, these brought back memories and nostalgia to the elders.
The students from Our Lady of Lourdes School, Valpoi, delivered captivating dance performances like the fugdi dance, Ghavti mitt dance that energized the gathering. School students also performed a dance on dekhni.
Designer Harold Andrade showcased his Kunbi collections through a fashion show with models Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, Dominic D’souza and Marlene Henriques. A great initiative by the young designer Harold to bring back the kunbi attire in our lives.
Bolcãocheo Gozalli between Professor Carmelito Andrade and hosts Fr. Santana Gama and Fr. Felix Lobo discussing on how they a fest in the village can bring communities together.
The highlight of the festival was cutting of the Birthday cake for our beloved Ghumot by ex-principal of The Goa College of Arts, Mr Willy Goes and encouraging people to buy ghumots and save the potter while Festakar stressed on his famous slogan “Taking the Ghumot to the world”.
The villagers had live roasting of cashew nuts, saltfish, Philip Dionisio had a demo on the correct method of cutting the jackfruit, preparing the semi raw jackfruit traditional way on the chul.
The event closed with Balcaoacheo Gozalli – a thought-provoking conversation between Dr. Ornelas and local resident Francis Soares, highlighting stories of community and resilience.
More than just a festival, Muddasachem Fest was a reminder of the power of people coming together – to share, celebrate and strengthen the threads that binds them.
