David AguiarGoa is a place that’s easy to get carried away with its postcard-perfect beaches and lively streets. But step away from the shoreline, and you’ll find a side of Goa that is almost untouched, a place where tradition lives in the form of craft and culture. Here, in quiet workshops and bustling village markets, artisans shape more than objects; they preserve Goa’s identity. Their creations tell stories of resilience, history, and a deep connection to the land, offering travellers a chance to engage with a Goa that is as rich as it is authentic.
Crafting Goa’s Stories in Blue and White
A combination of Portuguese and indigenous craftsmanship can be seen in Goa’s famous blue-and-white tiles, called azulejos. These tiles are hand-painted with elaborate designs or depictions of Goan life after being shaped and kiln-fired from locally procured clay in workshops located around Divar Island, Old Goa, and Panjim. Each tile is meticulously crafted by artists using pigments derived from minerals and then glazed and refired to get its distinctive glossy appearance.
Often made by family-run businesses, these tiles adorn homes, churches, and public spaces, preserving a legacy passed down through generations. To experience this craft firsthand, visit tile studios in Fontainhas or nearby villages, where artisans offer insights into their meticulous process and even take custom orders for a unique piece of Goa’s heritage.
The Whisper of History in Every Craft
Goa’s artisan culture is more than just souvenirs; it’s about tales. Every brass lamp on a home altar or terracotta sculpture on a shelf evokes memories of a bygone period. These complex, traditional objects capture the essence of Goa’s culture.
Visit the towns of Bicholim or Siolim, which are noted for their pottery and brass work, to watch artisans sculpting clay pots or carving lamps with intricate designs. It’s more than just purchasing beautiful goods; it’s about understanding the hands that make them.
Hidden Markets, Hidden Treasures
In Goa, markets are more than just places to shop. They are lively displays of the state’s art. On a Friday morning, you can walk through Mapusa Market, where artists sell clay pots, jewellery made from coconut shells, and bags made from banana fibre. Hands that have been learning these skills for generations have made each piece one of a kind.
Canacona’s weekly market in the south is more earthy and out of the ordinary. Craftspeople are making bamboo baskets and wooden toys here. In these markets, every item you buy has a lot of value behind it.
The Kunbi Saree – A Revival of Tradition
The Kunbi saree, with its earthy red tones and simple checkered patterns, reflects Goa’s tribal heritage. This traditional attire was once an integral part of the lives of Goa’s farming communities. Today, weaving communities in smaller villages in Goa are reviving this art.
Visiting a weaving centre like the one in the Village of Orlim is an experience like no other. The rhythmic clatter of looms fills the air, and the sarees, made with love and precision, tell stories of resilience and history. Purchasing one to take home is like owning a piece of Goa’s soul.
Bamboo and Coconut – Crafting Sustainability
In Goa, nature makes people creative. Bamboo and coconut are found in large amounts in the state and are used to make beautiful, long-lasting crafts. In villages like Aldona, skilled craftspeople make toys, lamps, and bamboo baskets. In Pernem, coconut shells are turned into mugs, bowls, and jewellery.
Many workshops in smaller villages welcome visitors to try their hand at crafting. These experiences not only promote sustainability but also give travellers a chance to engage with Goa’s artistic traditions in a deeply personal way.
The Rhythm of Goa – Music in the Making
Goa’s rhythm isn’t confined to its beaches or the pulsing beats of EDM and techno at its famed parties—it lives in its traditional music. The ghumot, a percussion instrument crafted from clay pots, is central to Goa’s festivals and folk performances.
In the quieter corners of Siolim and Salcete, artisans shape these instruments with care, ensuring that each ghumot carries the distinct sound of Goa’s celebrations. Watching this process or even trying to play one is a unique experience that connects you with the heart of Goan culture.
Culinary Crafts – Flavours of Goa
Goa’s artistry extends to its food. Spice farms across the state, particularly in Ponda, are run by families who craft traditional masalas by hand. Walking through these farms, where the air is thick with the aroma of spices, is a sensory delight.
Another iconic Goan craft is the distillation of feni, the state’s beloved spirit. Many villages, especially in south Goa, still use traditional methods to produce feni, with each batch reflecting the artistry of its maker. Meanwhile, desserts like bebinca—a layered Goan speciality—are lovingly prepared in small bakeries across Goa, where each slice is a testament to patience and skill.
Art That Speaks – Frescoes and Mosaics
The frescoes in Goa’s numerous centuries-old churches appear to breathe as soon as you enter. These elaborate paintings, created by regional artists, convey tales of tenacity and faith. One of the best examples of this artistic heritage is the Church of St. Francis of Assisi in Old Goa.
Visit mosaic workshops in towns like Divar Island for a more hands-on experience. Here, craftspeople teach tourists how to make colourful tile art. These vibrant mosaics create a memorable memento that perfectly captures Goa’s vibrant attitude.
Preserving Traditions Amid Modern Challenges
Despite their beauty and significance, Goa’s traditional crafts face challenges. Across Goa, successive governments, NGOs, tradition revival groups, village communities and younger generations are working to preserve these crafts, blending innovation with tradition to keep them relevant.
Travellers play an essential role in this preservation. By seeking out local artisans, purchasing handmade crafts, and sharing their experiences, travellers contribute to sustaining these traditions.
Taking a Piece of Goa’s Soul Home
When you visit Goa, step beyond the ordinary. Meet the hands that mould clay, weave fabric, carve wood, and distil flavours. Take home not just a souvenir but a story—a piece of Goa’s soul.
Each craft in Goa has its own unique vibe. From the beautiful strokes on a hand-painted tile to the rhythmic weaving of a traditional saree, every piece tells a story of a culture that’s deeply connected to its land. These creations aren’t just artefacts; they are pieces of Goa’s spirit, crafted by hands that carry stories, traditions, and a deep passion for what they do.
Goan artisans are the genuine storytellers; everything they make tells a story of strength, history, and beauty. Going through their work is like going through Goa in its purest form, below the surface, where its lively spirit lives.
So, when you step into Goa, let your curiosity guide you. Seek out the stories, marvel at the craftsmanship, and connect with the heart of this magical land. Because the true treasures of Goa aren’t found in its sands but in the timeless traditions that its people so lovingly preserve. Let Goa’s artistry be your invitation to discover a world that is as soulful as it is unforgettable.
