‘Ghumat’ soon to be declared as the heritage instrument of Goa: Gaude

Announcing that music percussion instrument– ghumat will soon be declared as the heritage instrument of Goa, minister for art and culture, Govind Gaude said that most of the work has been processed to declare ghumat with a relevant membrane as the state heritage instrument. He was speaking at the release of a special postal cover on ghumat at the valedictory function of the three-day GOAPEX 2019, Goa Philatelic exhibition at Institute Menezes Braganza, Panaji.

Gaude, further said that stamps and ghumat have been an integral part of his life. “Back then where there were no telephones or any mode of communication it was letters which we used to convey messages and that is when stamps would come to our rescue.” Quoting French statesmen, Napoleon Bonaparte, “Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.” Gaude urged the students to plan their journey on the basis of perfections but not on perceptions.

The guest of honour and heritage promoter, Sanjeev Sardesai narrated how the ghumat is an asset to Goa’s heritage. “The instrument is made from the membrane of the monitor lizard which is an endangered species. However, there are attempts made in order to revive it with a relevant membrane. The instrument has been there in Goa since the very beginning and it has its own history. It is used for all festivals and functions,” said Sardesai.

He put forth certain historical facts about stamps and said that he was amazed to see the first ever stamp made, at the exhibition of GOAPEX 2019. To the students present at the function he said: “Be like the stamps which stick to one corner of the envelope and travels around the world.”

Folk artiste, Kanta Gaude who has gained fame for playing the ghumat with his troop at various places also spoke on the occasion. He said: “The folk instrument of my land was given to us by our elders. I am happy to see that it will gain the attention of the world as the stamps will travel to different parts of the world. This instrument on the stamp has been with me for the past 45 years.”

He shared his experience of playing with artistes from different corners of the world. “When we would go to perform at various occasions it was wonderful to see how the percussion instrument blended well with other instruments. Moreover, there was communal harmony that it spread through its beats,” added Kante.

 

 

 

Pic Credit- Hemant Parab