What is it about Goans?

Seriously, what is it? Coz every time two of them meet their conversation is centered around - no prizes for guessing - Fish!!

Now, there are parts of the world where there is a bigger fish-eating culture than in Goa. Japan, for instance is probably the biggest producer and consumer of fish. Even Goa's colonial ruler Portugal has a cuisine centered around seafood. They say in Portugal, 'If it comes out of the ocean, we'll eat it!!". Closer to home, Bengalis are known for their passion for fish. And yet, when it comes to talking fish, very few others do it as frequently and as passionately as Goans.
My earliest memories of a food-related discussion are mom and dad arguing about who buys the best fish and gets the best bargains at the local fish market. Or my dad arguing with my uncle about which market in Mumbai brings in better and fresher catch - Girgaum or Citylight.

I recently spent a few weeks with my cousin in Pune when his in-laws from Mumbai decided to pay a visit. Both mom-in-law and dad-in-law happened to be Goans. Though our conversation over a few pegs of whiskey began with the upcoming elections and the political turmoil in our home state, it eventually came to the point. Over the next few hours all matters relating to creatures of the sea and those who earn their livelihood from them were discussed. Mom-in-law turned out to be an expert on the subject and was remarkably passionate about anything that involved either fish or Goa. Here are some of her quips.

'Oh you like squid? You must come home sometime. We make stuffed squid every Sunday!!'
'Fish in Goa has a different taste. You cant get that in Mumbai!!'
'Don't ever buy fish from bhaiyyas remember, only kolis!!'
'Freshwater fish is bullshit! Real fish comes from the ocean!!'

Throughout the conversation mom-in-law's face exuded passion. And every species of fish that received a mention brought a million-dollar smile to her face. By the time our conversation ended, almost all the creatures dwelling in the Arabian Sea had found mention. At the end of it all, I could only think of the tagline from a much appreciated Mastercard commercial. Here's a modified version.

1 Whole Pomfret - Rs. 500
1 dozen large prawns - Rs. 400
10 slices of kingfish - Rs. 250
1 large lobster - Rs. 1000
The look on mom-in-law's face - Priceless!!