Goa Cashew Fest 2025
As Goa prepares to host the 3rd edition of the Goa Cashew Fest from April 25 to 27, 2025, at the Dayanand Bandodkar Grounds, Campal, Panjim, Goa the event is poised to celebrate the state's rich agricultural heritage and vibrant cultural identity. Led by Dr. Deviya Rane, Chairperson of the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), the festival has become a cornerstone for promoting the cashew's economic and cultural significance while fostering sustainable development. In this interview, Dr. Deviya Rane shares her vision for the festival, its impact on local communities, and GFDC's broader initiatives to support Goa's agrarian economy.
1. What was the core idea behind curating the Goa Cashew Fest, and how has it grown since its inception?
The core idea behind curating the Goa Cashew Fest was to celebrate the rich legacy and multifaceted role of the cashew in Goa, not just as a crop, but as a cultural emblem. Cashew is more than feni or a snack; it's deeply woven into our cuisine, economy, traditions, and identity. What began as a humble effort to tell that story has now evolved into a dynamic platform where tradition meets innovation-attracting attention not just from across Goa and India, but also from international audiences who are eager to discover the soul of Goan heritage through the lens of the cashew.
2. This festival brings together farmers, distillers, chefs, and artists-how do you think this convergence benefits the local ecosystem?
It's truly powerful when farmers, distillers, chefs, and artists come together in one space. This kind of convergence sparks a beautiful exchange of ideas-where a distiller might discover a new narrative for their craft, and a chef might find inspiration in traditional techniques or local ingredients. It builds a deeper appreciation of how interwoven the cashew is with our land, culture, and people. For those attending, it's not just about enjoying products-it's about witnessing a living, breathing ecosystem that thrives on collaboration, resilience, and storytelling.
3. How do you see the cashew industry contributing to Goa's agro-economy in the next 5-10 years?
The cashew industry holds untapped potential for Goa's agro-economy. Beyond just being a source for raw nuts or feni, it offers opportunities in value-added products, sustainable farming, and even agro-tourism. With the right push towards organic cultivation, cooperative models, and strategic branding, cashew can truly emerge as a pillar of Goa's green economy. Today's global consumer is seeking authenticity, sustainability, and local stories-and the Goan cashew ecosystem delivers all of that. Over the next 5-10 years, I see it not just sustaining livelihoods, but shaping a new economic narrative for rural Goa.
4. What's one element of this year's Cashew Fest that you're particularly proud of-and one surprise that delighted you?
This year, I'm especially proud of how we've strengthened our farm-to-table approach. The Goa Cashew Fest is all about meaningful empowerment and celebrating the roots of Goa's cashew culture.
And the surprise? Let's just say there's something exciting and unexpected that's going to leave everyone smiling... but you'll have to come experience it for yourself!
