Ponsachem Fest on 22, June

The Ponsachem Fest led by festakar Marius Fernandes on 22 June at the Goa Pharmacy College celebrates the bounty of the season with an exciting line-up of communitty drive program. The show is from 3pm to 6pm.

 With a focus on zero-waste, as with the other fests, carry your crockery to reduce plastic waste. No sponsors or chief guests ensure a community-led initiative. The event in Panjim will host a balcaoacho gozalli with prominent personalities, live music, Ghumot circle, home-cooked goodies, and a range of products by grassroots entrepreneurs.

 “I am thrilled to curate the 84th People’s Festival on the 24th World Goa Day, celebrating 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” He added they are doing our best to ensure everyone gets the platform to promote their products and showcase their talents given the time constraint.

Highlighting the importance of the fruit in the diet, Marius explains, “Jackfruit is increasingly being hailed as the food of the future due to its versatility, sustainability and nutritional benefits. As a hardy, high-yielding crop, jackfruit thrives in tropical climates with minimal agricultural inputs, making it an environmentally friendly option. Its 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.

 The jackfruit also offers significant health benefits, including boosting immunity and aiding digestion. Jackfruit has the potential to address food security and support sustainable agriculture and stands out as a promising staple for the future.”

With a focus on promoting inclusiveness at every fest, differently-abled vendors will be offered the opportunity to market their products.

Prakash Kamat, a veteran journalist, also a Member of State Advisory Board on Disability

who works closely with the disability space, says of the fest, “Like all his Fests in recent times, this Ponsachem Fest too is inclusive. We invite the community to participate in the fest.”

The team encourages visitors to dress in coloured attire and wear kopels in true São Joao spirit.