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A treat for lovers of seafood: Versova Fish Festival is Goa in Mumbai
We visited the Versova Fish Festival over the weekend and here is what we think.
Most people living around Andheri in Mumbai know of the famous Koli seafood festival that happens in Versova every year during January. It is a highly anticipated affair as it is a one of a kind event that one cannot afford to miss. We visited this much talked about the festival on its second day and here's what we have to say.
Ambiance
The general vibe of the festival is highly infectious. You cannot step into this place and not marvel at the sheer human joy that stares back at you. The ideal time to visit here is in the evening where the festivities are in full force. There is a lot of merry making going on. People of all sorts come in. There are a lot of stalls apart from the fish ones, which include desserts and drinks. There are a lot of lights and a number of balloons are seen floating in the sky. It is bright, happy and celebratory. You should go there with a large bunch of family or friends to have fun to the fullest. Stunning folk dance performances happen on the stage and the music is so catchy, you'll want to dance too, and you actually can; considering how people right below the stage form circles and dance without a care. The Koli women serving fish at every stall are dressed beautifully and conduct themselves with a lot of grace. No one is ever in a dull mood despite all the bustle going on. The only major turn off is how crowded the place is. Anyone who dislikes crowds will never want to come to this place. It is easy to lose your people in here.
Food
Undoubtedly, the food doesn't disappoint. From pomfrets, prawns, Bombay duck, tuna, queenfish, mandeli, basa, shellfish, mackerel, bangda, ghol to crabs, lobsters and squids, there is all kinds of seafood that you can think of. They cook it exceptionally well too and you can ask for customizations. The food is expensive but still cheaper than the seafood served in restaurants. The dishes are extremely delicious and quick as they are cooked and served fresh. The Koli women cook the food in their own traditional style, adding a hint of originality and taste that you will remember for long afterwards. One thing common at all stalls and what I personally loved were the rice rotis. The texture and taste complemented the food so well.
Overview
If you are a fan of seafood, this is an event you cannot afford to miss. It's not only a regular dinner but a whole gastronomical experience in its own. Go with family and friends for making the best of it. The crowds and waiting time can prove to be too much for you but it is worth it. If you have a fixed fish seller, chances are that they have a stall at this festival and they will invite you. Visit their stall as they will then pay personal attention to you. The desserts and drinks are also fantastic, try out their kokam sherbat or solkadi (a spicy traditional drink). All in all, the festival is worthy of the hype and a wholesome experience.
Pinkvilla Taste Meter: 4/5
