Introduction
São Joao and World Goa Day to be celebrated at the Ponsachem Fest 2024 in Panjim on the 22nd June at 3pm at the Goa college of Pharmacy, Panjim. The monsoon showers have breathed new life into Goa, setting the perfect stage for the much-anticipated Jackfruit Festival. On 22 June 2024, from 3 pm to 6 pm, the Goa Pharmacy College in Panjim, all accessible, indoor venue, centrally located on the 18th June road will host the vibrant Ponsachem Fest, led by the renowned festakar Marius Fernandes.
Celebrating The Versatility Of Jackfruit
This community-driven event celebrates the season’s bounty with a commitment to zero waste and inclusivity. The Ponsachem Fest 2024 highlights the growing popularity of the world’s largest fruit, especially among vegans in the West who are drawn to its superfood status. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own crockery to minimize plastic waste, reinforcing the festival’s eco-friendly ethos. True to its community-led nature, the festival eschews sponsors and chief guests, fostering a sense of collective participation.
Engaging Conversations And Workshops
Balcaoacho Gozalli with horticulturalist Miguel Braganza in conversation with senior journalist Prakash Kamat about jackfruit as the food of the future and respected journalist Nicole Suarez in conversation with Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas about the essence, history and legacy of Festakar Marius Fernandes ‘ festivals.
Live Performances and Music
Dr. Glenis Mendonca, well known Goan artist and musician will provide the Live Music on her guitar along with other budding singers. Percussionist Bryan Fernandes and local artists will participate in a Ghumot circle. Goa’s Ghumot is being featured in a new album by British award winning composer Kuljit Bhamre’s (Namaste Bombay) with the song “Goa Beach” and will be released on the 28th of June 2024 on youtube, Apple music and Spotify.
Authentic Goan Cuisine
Home-cooked Goan food and a variety of products from grassroot locals will be sold by over 20 vendors at the fest promising you of authenticity. A unique jackfruit pudde, a savory Goan dessert workshop will be conducted by Chef Maria Dias.
A Message From Festakars
Marius Fernandes, curator of the 84th People’s Festival on the 24th World Goa Day, expressed his excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to curate the Jackfruit Festival. This vibrant celebration of São Joao festivities embraces accessibility and inclusion for all communities. The event showcases Goa’s rich heritage, music, and arts through the world’s largest fruit. Join us in honoring the spirit of togetherness and cultural pride that makes Goa truly special.”
Special Highlights
Fernandes highlighted the importance of jackfruit in modern diets, noting, “Jackfruit is increasingly being hailed as the food of the future due to its versatility, sustainability and nutritional benefits. It’s fibrous texture and neutral taste allow it to mimic meat in various dishes, appealing to the growing demand for plant-based proteins. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, jackfruit also offers significant health benefits, including boosting immunity and aiding digestion. It has the potential to address food security and support sustainable agriculture.”
Join The Festive Spirit
In a bid to promote inclusiveness, the festival will offer differently-abled vendors the opportunity to market their products. Veteran journalist Prakash Kamat, a member of the State Advisory Board on Disability, commented, “Like all his recent fests, this Ponsachem Fest is inclusive. We invite the community to participate in the fest.”
Attendees are encouraged to dress in colourful attire and wear kopels in true São Joao spirit, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Event details:
Date: 22 June 2024
Time: 3 pm to 6 pm
Venue: Goa Pharmacy College, Panjim
Join us at the Ponsachem Fest 2024 to celebrate the richness of Goa’s culture and the versatility of the magnificent jackfruit!
For more information, please contact:
Festakar Marius Fernandes
91 9049081961.
Prakash Kamat
91 9422443093.
