The paata is the flat stone component of this complex domestic object. And varvanta is the lozenge shaped hammer that is used to grind grain, roots and seeds on the paata. The same objects are also called faator and gunno in some parts of Goa. As we all know, civilisation began on the banks of rivers. That explains a close relationship that men and women had with the stones they found on the river bed. At first, they must have pounded grain in the vaayan or, the mortar and pestle in-built into the courtyard and then taken this pounded grain to the paata varvanta for processing. This paata varvanta most certainly came from the banks of the river. Imagine a scenario in the Stone Age and visualise the use of the earliest paata varvanta. That imagery gives you a unique thrill!
20 сен 2024
