SUJATA DABOLKAR

Our love for fish recently led us on a delightful journey to Karwar, a serene coastal town in Karnataka known for its seafood, beaches, and natural beauty. Nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Karwar has always been famous for its fresh catch and authentic coastal cuisine. So, one fine day, my family and I decided to drive from Carmona, Goa, to Karwar for a special lunch, and the experience turned out to be much more than just about food—it became a journey through nature, science, and flavours. We set out in the morning, taking the road via Karmal Ghat. The drive itself was soothing, with smooth roads winding gently through the hills. As we passed through the ghat section, the beauty of the Western Ghats unfolded before us. The forests here are a part of the tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen biome, a treasure of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Towering trees like Terminalia paniculata (kindal) and Artocarpus hirsutus (wild jackfruit) formed a dense canopy...

On the southern border of Goa, close to the Karnataka border, lies the serene and relatively untouched Polem Beach. This is a unique, peaceful, and pristine stretch of coastline where time seems to pause. My visit to Polem was not just a touristic experience, but also a deeply scientific and personal journey. During my Master’s research years, I had been fascinated by geomicrobiology —the study of interactions between microorganisms and geological processes. Through this lens, I explored Polem Beach and gained invaluable insights about the marine ecosystem and its connection with microbial life. Unlike the busy and commercial beaches of Goa, Polem offers a different charm. The vast stretches of golden sand, swaying coconut palms, crystal-clear water, and the soothing sound of waves together create an enchanting environment. It feels like nature has reserved this corner exclusively for those who seek peace and reflection. The beach is bordered by small hills, adding a picturesque backdr...