Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: The Department of History of Shree Mallikarjun & Shri Chetan Manju Desai College, Delem, Canacona, organised a seminar titled “Patoleo: A Cross Community Tradition” on Friday, exploring the historical, cultural and ecological significance of the traditional Goan delicacy.
The seminar highlighted how Patoleo has remained a shared culinary tradition across communities in Goa and the Konkan region, while also examining its green dimension and therapeutic properties.
Associate Professor Domitel D’Souza, Head of the Department of History, in her introductory remarks, emphasised the importance of preserving traditional practices that connect communities with their cultural heritage.
Keynote speaker Dr. Sucheta Naik spoke about the evolution of Patoleo-making traditions and their association with festivals celebrated by both Hindus and Catholics. She also highlighted the role of oral histories in preserving the tradition across generations.
Principal Dr. Rupa Chari appreciated the initiative to document local traditions and encouraged students to actively engage with cultural heritage.
The student reflection session featured TYBA students Shreya Dhuri and Diya Naik Gaonkar, who shared their experiences of family traditions and the community practice of exchanging Patoleos.
Students Pranali Gaonkar, Rishelle D’Souza, Sejal Bhandari, Swajal Vernekar and Niharika Pagi added a participatory element to the seminar by displaying Patoleos they had prepared.
The programme was compered by Parna Prabhu. Assistant Professors Arantxa Colaco and Shibani Pagi proposed the vote of thanks and coordinated the event, respectively.
