Panaji: An architecturally renowned Church in Goa’s Bardez taluka this Independence Day will host a unique festival of celebrating and honouring an indigenous sweet dish called, ‘patolleo’.

Our Lady of Assumption Church located at Succoro village, near Panaji in Bardez Taluka would be celebrating ‘Patolleanchem Fest’, an unique salute to the jaggery-based sweet dish.

Goa Tourism department which has been promoting this ‘alcohol-free’ event as a tourist attraction, said the festival is a ‘must-visit’ for visitors.

“The Goan sweet Patolleo is a sweet made of jaggery and rice encased in a turmeric leaf. Goa, the most colorful and vibrant state celebrates ‘Patolleanchem Fest’, a unique festival honouring the dish Patolleo,” the department said in a release issued here.

Traditionally, the festival is celebrated by preparing and distributing the Patolleos among villagers.

“Visitors are then treated to fabulous Goan fare and various performances by the locals and artistes. Guests are also given a share of the homemade Patolleo’s that are traditionally distributed on this day,” it said.

“Various stalls are also put up displaying a variety of local handicrafts and wares. The ubiquitous Goan brass band also graces the occasion with vibrant Konkani favourites and catchy tunes,” the department has said.