Tucked away just five kilometers from the nearest city, Curchirem village is a place where time still moves to the gentle rhythm of the seasons. Situated in the Bicholim taluka of North Goa, the village of Curchirem serves as a tranquil place where nature and humans coexist harmoniously away from the city hustle and bustle. Laden in serenity, the village is surrounded by several neighboring villages such as Sarvan, Van, Maulinguem, Podshem and Mollem. The village is further divided into various wards known as “vaddos” in Konkani language. These include, Deulwada, Naigini, Bhattawadi, Brahmaniwadi, Paltawada and Bhangarwada. Based on the census of 2011, Curchirem is home to 2,043 residents (1,033 male and 1,010 females). The villagers earn their livelihood mostly through agriculture. Other sources of income include jobs in the industrial sector, service sector and operating small businesses.

Agricultural Practices and Modern Transitions

Types of agriculture practiced in the village include, horticulture farming, dairy farming and poultry. Horticulture farming includes plantation of various crops such as betel nut, coconut, banana, rice, black pepper and mango. On the other hand, rearing of buffaloes, cows and goats for obtaining milk is practiced under dairy farming. During the colonial period, the village was heavily dependent on agriculture for its livelihood, but with the introduction of new technology, modernization and infrastructure development overtime, the doors for multiple occupations opened for the people facilitating their source of income. Although dependency on agriculture has decreased, agriculture still remains the backbone of the village.

Seasonal Crops, Livestock, and Daily Livelihoods

The Dhangar community of the village can be seen actively engaged in dairy farming. They rear cows, goats and buffaloes and sell milk which is later transported to village dairy. Rice farming is also carried out throughout the year. The families are seen working in the farms completing tasks such as ploughing, harrowing, leveling, weeding, sowing, fertilizing, threshing and drying. Another significant plantation in the agriculture of Curchirem village includes betel nut plantation. With the government support, the establishment of canals for irrigation and machines have made the farming practices convenient for the people. During summers, people are engaged in cashew farming which includes the collection of cashew fruits and separation of cashew seeds and apples. These are further washed and dried making them ready to sell to the wholesalers or the village factory. “Feni” is also prepared using the cashew apples. Besides farming, people are also involved in fishing and other activities supporting their livelihood.

Temples, Heritage, and Local Festivals

Along with the nature, the serenity of the village is also maintained by the culture and the heritage rooted in the Curchirem village. The temples located in the village include Sateri Devi temple, Mahadev temple, Kelbai temple, Nirankari temple and many more. The unity of the villagers can be witnessed when they gather together for temple celebrations offering their devotion to the almighty. Another significant festival celebrated in the village is “Karvalyo”, a unique festival which involves young boys who wear sarees of green color and ornaments. Dressed like women, these boys practice fasting and are believed to be the goddesses Sateri Devi and Kelbai Devi. They go from house to house where people offer their worship through their services like garlanding them with flowers and touching their feet. Other festivals include “Dhalo” and “Chapai”. Chapai is specially celebrated by the Dhangar community through dance performances.

Modern Growth and Biodiversity

Over a period of time, significant development can be traced in the village, which is evident from education facilities, various road projects, setting up of network tower and a higher secondary school. The village falls under the panchayat located in the Maulinguem village focusing on the village concerns. The Curchirem village has a rich biodiversity which includes multiple species of plants such as neem, banyan and fig, variety of crops, domestic animals like cows, buffaloes and goats. Birds like peacock, cuckoo, owls, parrots also add to the picturesque view of the village. Steeped in peace, Curchirem offers an ethereal experience with the sunrise and sunset fulfilling the hearts and making one feel the mother earth profoundly.

Astha Mashelkar