Ganesh Chaturthi Meal

The celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa has a charm of its own. But the beauty of the occasion celebration is enhanced when celebrated with friends and family!

I was one of the privileged few to be invited over to a friends’ place for lunch.

But one does not move hurriedly into lunch. First there are the multitude of sweets that have to be tasted!

What I enjoyed most were the modaks

(I hope the picture speaks for itself)

We then participated in the aarti, which are devotional prayers and hymns sung by the entire family, and then Amay Parrikar, our host, explained the various symbols and rituals of the celebration.

Two of these which I found very meaningful were the matoli (a canopy of fruits and flowers grown locally in Goa)

… and the tray which offered the first corn of the fields to the deity.

From the time we entered his house till the time we left I think I ate more than I did on in an entire day 😉

Festivals are indeed occasions that keep the flame of brotherhood alive in society

Uno Party Italiano

Bruschetta, Diavola, Spaghetti…

I may not be able to pronounce these words correctly, but their memories still make my mouth water.

The event was a party hosted by a friend, Elton Fernandes.

The moment we entered his house, the menu greeted us at the door and it was buon appetito from the start

And what followed were one appetizing dish after the other to tease our taste buds

What is Italian food without the spirits to wash it down with…

the bar counter was also well laden with the choicest 🙂

Livening up the atmosphere was DJ Marc at his console, who obliged the eager party with music ranging from pop to country, and trance to jive!

But the celebrities of the show were these three

(from L-R): The Host – Elton Pinto
The Sous Chef = Juao
The Chef = Mikey

Mille Grazie!