Off to chikooland

Updated On: 06 March, 2022 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak Siddiqi

Dahanu’s fest is back with a new name but the same heritage-rich experience we’ve long loved

The Warlis, an indigenous tribe that call Dahanu home celebrate happy occasions with the group dance, Tarpa

A picturesque location by the sea, surrounded by swaying palm trees, fragrant roses, sweet aroma of chikoos and an eclectic mix of events spread over two days. Old wine, new bottle? The chikoo festival of the region comes packaged in a brand new avatar with the first-ever Dahanu Festival this month that aims to put the coastal town firmly on the national tourism map. Think kite flying (day and night), beach paragliding, agro farm tours, old and ancient games, art and craft workshops (Warli) and Mardaani khel. You can look forward to folk dance performances, the Puneri dhol fusion band, onsite camping activities like stargazing, trekking and heritage walks that showcase the village life. Foodies have the chance to try traditional Maharashtrian and Konkani dishes, and enjoy chikoo-based milkshake, ice cream, dried chips and mithai. You can also take a look at how fish farming and honeycombing are done.

A basket weaver demonstrates her skill. Pics/Tinaz Nooshian