Not long ago Goa had some of the finest fresh produce in the world, sustained for hundreds of years by the traditional farming methods of the hardy Gaudo community. The Gaude were among the first settlers in Goa and are thought to be Austric in origin.
Today the situation for Goan farming is dire and the Gaude face a grim future. Fertile fields are being wiped out overnight, taken over by builders in collusion with local politicos. Delicious local produce has now made way for mass imports from outside the state. The Gaude have no clout to resist the forces leading to their demise. As can be seen in the photos below, the tenacious few that persist have been pushed to the periphery – literally – of the market in Panjim (and other towns).
Fresh produce at Panjim market
5D Mark II, 14L II
Sorting yard long beans
5D Mark II, 14L II
Parvati Vernekar, traditional farmer from Curca, Goa
5D Mark II, 24-105L
Fresh produce at Panjim market
5D Mark II, 24-105L
Fresh produce at Panjim market
5D Mark II, 24-105L
by Rajan P. Parrikar
4 comments
This is a very nice series! Looking at those veggies I feel like eating
Parvati picture is terrific !
Rajan, ‘U R A GENIUS’. Carry on the good work for the betterment of GOA & GOANS. U HAVE OUR SUPPORT & ADMIRATION.
What beautiful pictures, Rajan. My mouth waters looking at the produce. And a superb portrait of Parvati Vernekar.