ERWIN FONSECA
SIOLIM: It is not common to see a well-established individual leave a high-paying job to embrace a challenging and traditional occupation in their homeland. Yet for Peter Fernandes, popularly known as ‘Pitu’ from Marna, Siolim, this was a journey of purpose and pride. At the age of 48, Peter has dedicated himself full-time to farming and toddy tapping, carrying forward a tradition deeply rooted in Goa’s history.
After completing his twelfth standard, Peter chose to stay in Goa, working in the tourism sector while helping with his family’s farming responsibilities. “Our family comes from a farming background, so I continued farming alongside my job. It was hard work, but fulfilling,” he recalled. However, in 2002, a turning point arrived in his life.
“I got an opportunity to go abroad, and I felt I couldn’t let it pass. Back then, I believed there was no scope for growth here in Goa, and moving abroad seemed the only way to secure a better future,” said Peter.
For 17 years, Peter worked across four companies, with a focus on the football industry. This choice aligned with Siolim’s reputation for its football-loving community. Despite his accomplishments abroad, Peter’s heart remained in Siolim. He harboured a dream of returning home one day and giving back to his village.
“Over time, our traditions have started to fade. Technology has overshadowed our heritage, and I always felt that once I retired, I would return and revive something traditional in my village,” he said.
Life, however, had other plans for Peter. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 forced him to leave his overseas job and return to Siolim. While he initially resumed farming, he also explored job opportunities. Yet none of the roles offered him the sense of purpose he sought.
“A person can only grow when they are comfortable in their job. If one takes up a role out of necessity and without passion, they cannot excel or find satisfaction,” he observed.
Despite the uncertainty, Peter stayed patient. He believed the right opportunity would present itself in time.
In 2023, Peter attended the first-ever coconut festival in Siolim, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his life. The festival highlighted all aspects of coconut use, including toddy tapping. Watching a senior coconut climber demonstrate the skill, Peter felt an unshakable connection to this traditional art.
“This felt like my calling. Without hesitation, I approached the climber, learned the techniques, and dedicated myself to toddy tapping full-time,” he recounted.
Peter has now fully immersed himself in the age-old craft. His daily routine revolves around climbing coconut trees three times a day while managing his farming.
“Morning toddy is collected for drinking and selling, while evening toddy is preserved for vinegar. During the afternoon, I clean and sharpen the coconut flowers to ensure a steady flow of sap,” Peter explained.
On an average day, he extracts 15 litres of toddy, with production increasing to 20 litres during winter. He sells the toddy to bakeries and local vendors, as well as to individuals who appreciate its health benefits.
“Goa’s traditions deserve to be preserved. Instead of opting for easy-money jobs, young people should consider engaging in traditional professions like toddy tapping,” he urged. According to Peter, the profession is financially sustainable and offers significant physical benefits. He hopes that by sharing his experience, he can inspire others to pursue and value these heritage skills.
The mutual benefit
of toddy tapping
Peter is keen to highlight the reciprocal relationship between toddy tapping and the health of coconut trees.
“Once you start climbing trees regularly, your body gets used to the physical activity, and the tree benefits from the tapping. If you
stop, your body may feel the strain, and the tree’s productivity shifts from toddy to quality coconuts,” he explained.
This balance is what keeps both Peter and
the trees in optimal condition.
Peter’s respect for this traditional occupation has only deepened over time. He often consults senior toddy tappers to improve his skills and expand his understanding of the craft. “Toddy is a natural probiotic and great for gut health. People who understand its benefits regularly buy it for drinking. During festivals, the demand skyrockets, and I coordinate with senior tappers to meet the orders,” he said.
