SANGUEM: The annual feast of Our Lady of Miracles Church in Sanguem will be celebrated on May 16, marking the beginning of the much-awaited traditional fair popularly known as the ‘Purumentache Fest’. The fair, which usually continues for eight to ten days, is considered one of the biggest seasonal marketplaces in the region. It attracts large crowds from Sanguem, Quepem, Dharbandora and even nearby areas of Karnataka.
Known for the sale of monsoon essentials and household items, the fair draws shoppers from rural areas who come to buy dry fish, spices, wooden and iron furniture, ready-made clothes, plastic items, utensils, toys and several other goods needed during the rainy season. With a wide variety of monsoon-related items available at one place, the fair sees heavy footfall and brisk business throughout its run. While the church feast celebrations continue for five days, the fair remains active for more than a week. Apart from the Christian community, people from Hindu and Muslim communities also look forward to the annual event, reflecting its social and cultural importance in the region.
