Keri: Matoli decorations in Goan homes have attracted hundreds of researchers, students and enthusiasts this Ganesh Chaturthi, offering insights into plant diversity, its traditional uses and indigenous ecological knowledge.The tradition involves decorating a wooden canopy above clay Ganapati idols worshipped in homes. An annual state-level competition organised by the directorate of art and culture has given the practice a new dimension, with participants using diverse seasonal flora available in Goa and neighbouring areas.Datta Naik of Gaothan, Priol, said visitors to his home included Parveen Kumar, director of the ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute of Goa; senior plant taxonomist Malapati Janarthanam, who chairs the Goa State Research Foundation; and other naturalists and scholars.Naik’s Matoli featured 385 plant materials, including cultivated, traditional and underutilised crops, wild and semi-domestic plants, and medicinal and ornamental species. He said the display offered visitors an inspiring experience.At Talule, Bandoda, Tanaji Gaude used varied floral elements to decorate the canopy and displayed goddess Sarasvati. He said the Matoli showcased plant diversity, traditional uses and indigenous ecological knowledge through eco-artistry, offering insights to students and researchers.Gaude said earlier generations had used the tradition to transmit ethnobotanical knowledge, while it now helps visiting students understand aspects of ecotheology.Vishant Gawade of Rayatwada, Curti, said his Matoli used locally available plants such as Connarus monocarpus (Ghagryo), Celastrus paniculatus (Kangla), and Mussaenda frondosa (Shervada), along with several millets and exotic plant species, to decorate the god Dattatray.
