Indian Embassy Inaugurates Maharashtra and Goa Tourism, ODOP Walls

The Indian Embassy in Bahrain inaugurated the Maharashtra and Goa Tourism and One District One Product (ODOP) walls at its Consular Hall, with Ambassador of India H.E. Vinod K. Jacob leading the ceremony in the presence of members of the Maharashtra and Goa communities living in Bahrain.

The newly unveiled walls showcase prominent tourist attractions as well as exquisite products identified under the ODOP scheme from the states of Maharashtra and Goa. The initiative aims to highlight the cultural richness and commercial potential of the two western Indian states.

Addressing the gathering in Marathi and Konkani, Ambassador Jacob remarked that the focus on Maharashtra and Goa over the next two months would offer Indians in Bahrain and friends of India an opportunity to appreciate the cultural beauty of these states and explore avenues for strengthening commercial linkages. 

The event forms part of the Embassy’s ongoing ‘Focus State/Union Territory’ initiative, under which tourism and ODOP products of a selected state are promoted in Bahrain for approximately two months. So far, the Embassy has featured Rajasthan, Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Haryana and Delhi.

Located along India’s western coast in the Konkan belt and the Western Ghats, Maharashtra and Goa share coastal geography, biodiversity and maritime heritage. Both states also exhibit cultural similarities in cuisine, festivals and folk arts. Historically, while both regions had early coastal trade links, Maharashtra’s trajectory was shaped by the Maratha Empire, whereas Goa bears a strong imprint of Portuguese influence. Economically, both rely on agriculture, fisheries and trade. However, Maharashtra’s diversified industrial and services-driven economy contrasts with Goa’s tourism- and mining-led growth, reflecting regional continuity alongside distinct development paths.

Maharashtra is one of India’s most prominent states and contributes the largest share to the national economy. It boasts a robust services sector, a well-established industrial base and Mumbai’s position as India’s financial and commercial capital. Agriculture remains significant, supporting a large rural population and producing key crops such as cotton, sugarcane and cereals. The state is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, shaped by the Maratha Empire, the freedom movement and social reformers, with diverse traditions, languages and art forms that continue to influence India’s national identity.

Goa, though smaller in size, is economically vibrant, with tourism serving as the primary driver of growth and employment. Fisheries, agriculture, mining and small industries also contribute to its economy, and the state enjoys a high per capita income. Goa’s distinct cultural and historical identity reflects a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, visible in its architecture, festivals, cuisine and longstanding maritime traditions.

Ambassador Jacob also thanked members of the Maharashtra and Goa communities in Bahrain for their support in sourcing the ODOP items. The event concluded with colourful cultural performances and a spread of traditional cuisine organised by the communities.