MTDC in collaboration with Konkan Bhoomi Pratishtan’ organised Chikoo Festival at Dahanu on February 7- 8 2015. Started in 2012, the Festival features Chikoo safari as well as an exhibition of the products made from the fruit along with dance performances by tribals. The event is also supported by the State Agriculture Department and local organisations and citizens with the intention to promote theme based tourism in Dahanu and surrounding areas, bringing prosperity and dignity to its rural life.
Paraag Jaain Nainuttia (IAS), managing director, MTDC said, “Our objective is to get people cognisant of the history of the township. Locals have also cooperated a lot and various organisations and organisers have been instrumental in making Dahanu as a strong brand associating it with Chikoo, Warli paintings, tribal life, rural tourism and beach tourism. The festival has made a great deal of business and job opportunities to local masses and has helped modifying the small town. Plenty of tourists who want to experience local food and lifestyle prefer staying with residents therefore this has encouraged B&B in Dahanu and Bordi.”
The beachside town bordering Gujarat is renowned for its vast chikoo farms. Its tribal community is a treasure trove of Warli art and craftsmanship. Dahanu has skilled agriculturists, horticulturists, floriculturists, artisans, potters, basket weavers, jewellery die-makers, salt manufacturers, balloon manufacturers, toddy tappers and fisherfolk apart from olden activities like boat repairing and net making. The event ranges from a small fun-fair with stalls to showcase tribal art and craft, agricultural products, fresh fruits and their byproducts, a photo exhibition in the region.