With the summer’s scorching heat taking its toll on everyone
these days, some places may have got relief with a drizzle, but the villagers
of the sleepy ward Bhatti, Nerul (Nilla) situated not far from Nerul river
rejoiced as Tisryos (Clams) virtually rained. Young Zenovia Fernandes, all set
to start her Class 10 and other kids were there, all excited to attend the
annual festivity in their village that is held on the second Sunday of May.
In such a summer atmosphere, one will be surprised and will
be in total disbelief unless one experienced those smiling faces of 50-odd
villagers of all ages, gathered at the residence of the hosts, Michael
Gonsalves. The occasion was, the Tisryachem Feste, though little known to the
world, the villagers celebrated it at St Anthony Chapel with fanfare and
religious fervour. The festival is also known as ‘Angoneche Feste’ in
fulfillment of vows and promises. This year, Michael celebrated this feast for
the well-being of his sons, Ryan and Lincoln. After the litany, the devotees
are served Tisryachem Tonnack along with bread.
Women folks of the ward were busy from early morning
cleaning up the clams even as the host’s family made everyone feel at home with
their hospitality. To meet the evening deadline everyone played their role,
with many of them separating the clam shells, while others lend their hand in
grating coconut and cutting the vegetables. The task was a massive one as it
was not just a few bags of clams, but a big load to deal with. Michael
informed, “I procured the clams from Agacaim, where the fishermen collect in
large quantity as compared to other places. I have purchased 20 big baskets for
this feast as a large number of people attend the feast. Goan clams taste
better than the ones purchased from the neighbouring states.”
One of the most respected villagers is the octogenarian,
Dinizina Vaz, who despite her age supervised all the proceedings, preparing the
delicious Tisryachem Tonnack. She is well-known for the recipe that is
especially made for this delicacy. Soft-spoken Dinizina said, “People of all
religions have faith in praying here as their wishes are always fulfilled. I am
involved in the preparation of spices for Tisryo for more than 20 years now.”
Her daughter Pramila Dias adds, “My mother is known for preparing the Masala,
which is in great demand even with the Goans going abroad.” For this
mouth-watering dish, about 250 coconuts, 8 kilograms Masala, 6 kilograms sugar,
and a generous quantity of onions and tomatoes were used to enhance the flavour
of Tisryo.
The presence of the parish priest of Our Lady of Remedios
church, Fr Olavo Marcelino Caiado was a morale booster and his blessings only
added enthusiasm to the women, who went about doing the work with zest and thee
Gonsalves family becoming the perfect host to the festivity. Fr Olavo observed,
“I am experiencing Tisryachem Feste for the first time. This is how people in
Goa celebrated festivals as a single community in the past, all coming together
as one family and creating a harmonious atmosphere. The people from this
village have kept the age-old tradition alive.”
Lourdinha Gonsalves, wife of Michael, expressed, “There
can’t be a better satisfaction for our family than to see people coming here
from far away in full faith.” Her son Ryan summarized, “This festival is an
example of unity in diversity. Just imagine that people have been working from
8 am till 8 pm to make this people’s festival a great success. ”
The president of Holy Cross and St Anthony Chapel and local
panch, John Mendes said, “This festival is celebrated since time immemorial and
we are following in the footsteps of our ancestors. All people in the Bhatti
ward participate in the preparations for the feast.”
Celebration in a homely atmosphere is what village festivals
are all known for, and Tisryachem Fest is one of them. If you have missed
attending this feast, then keep your date a year on when the family of Jason
D’Souza will host this unique tradition with nature.
