Matoli, gastronomic culture, festival, and tourism: exploring Ganesh Chaturthi in Goa through the lens of cultural ecology theory and the convivialist approach

Abstract

The celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in India, especially in Goa, is closely linked to unique cultural traditions that showcase the region's rich heritage, traditional values, and ecological awareness. A key tradition is the Matoli, a decorative canopy made from locally sourced herbs, fruits, roots, and shrubs, representing the community's strong connection with its natural environment and linking culinary customs to ritual practices. This study examines how gathering materials for Matoli and preparing festive dishes promote community cohesion, fostering collaboration and shared cultural expressions. Using cultural ecology theory (Steward, 1955; Rappaport, 1967; Harris, 1966), the research explores how societal practices are closely linked to the natural environment. Using a mixed-method approach, the study combines ethnographic fieldwork, botanical surveys, and interviews with local residents to explore both the cultural and ecological aspects of the Matoli tradition, including its culinary elements. The findings highlight how these practices can help preserve cultural identity, encourage sustainable eating habits, and strengthen community ties. In line with the Convivialist Manifesto (https://convivialism.org/), we contend that tourism should coexist with the normal functioning of host societies without fundamentally changing or subordinating them, following an alternative post-neoliberal convivialist logic. By examining the connection between tradition, biodiversity, and food culture, the study provides insights into how festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi can serve as platforms for cultural conservation and environmental awareness.