The Surat District Aquaculture Farms Producers Organization Co-operative Society Limited organized Gujarat’s first-ever Beach Seafood Festival at Dandi village in Olpad, Surat district. The grand three-day festival was inaugurated by Minister Mukesh Patel and saw the presence of Mahabharata fame Puneet Issar. With 45 stalls offering a diverse range of seafood dishes from across India, the event was a paradise for seafood enthusiasts.
Promoting Beach Development and Employment
While various festivals are commonly held on beaches, organizing a seafood festival was a unique and significant step towards beach development. This first-of-its-kind tradition in Gujarat was initiated at Dandi village with the dual purpose of promoting beach tourism and generating employment opportunities for local residents. Renowned hotel owners participated by setting up stalls featuring a rich variety of seafood dishes prepared in different regional styles, including Parsi, Maharashtrian, and South Indian flavors.
An Emerging Tourism Destination
Dandi village’s beach is set to become a major tourist attraction in the coming years. With planned infrastructure developments, it aims to attract more visitors, thereby boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities. In addition to the delightful seafood, visitors enjoyed thrilling adventure sports such as paramotoring and paragliding. The festival also featured a dedicated kids’ zone, ensuring entertainment for families.
A Goa-Like Experience in Surat
Surat residents experienced the charm of a coastal food festival similar to those held in Goa. From exotic seafood platters to engaging outdoor activities, the event provided a wholesome experience for all age groups. Puneet Issar, the renowned Bollywood actor, writer, and director, made a special appearance at the festival, encouraging attendees and adding to the excitement.
Strong Participation from Officials and Tourists
The festival witnessed significant participation from Surat Fisheries Department officials, seafood industry stakeholders, and tourists. The initiative not only highlighted the potential of Dandi village as a prime location for culinary tourism but also showcased Gujarat’s growing interest in seafood culture.
The success of this event paves the way for similar festivals in the future, strengthening Surat’s reputation as a vibrant cultural and tourism hub. With continued support, the Dandi beach seafood festival is expected to become an annual celebration, attracting food lovers from across the country. Also, on February 23, visitors can also enjoy a live screening of the India-Pakistan cricket match.
Also read, Surat Budget 2025: SMC Proposes ₹9,603 Crore Budget with No Tax Hike
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