Surat: ‘Surtilala ne bapa Damanji sambhre, pivani batli mari rahi gai Daman ma, Adarsh ni cha ahi roj pivay chhe, beer ne vodka mari rahi gai daman ma!’ The video of women singing the song that loosely translates as ‘Surtilala my beloved, I remember Daman where I left behind my bottle of liquor; While drinking ideal tea is a routine here, my beer and vodka bottles are left behind in Daman’, has become a internet sensation of late.
The chorus expresses how Surti tourists miss binging in the union territory, their favourite watering hole, after the beach destination remained completely closed during the subsequent waves of Covid-19.
Stanzas of the song also mention the seafood and other delicacies that lure foodies to Daman, while the last verse is dedicated to Devka beach, a favourite hangout spot for tourists while in the union territory.
The video, which went viral, is believed to have been shot in a family function.
Rising popularity of the song only portrays how Surtis miss Daman and desperately wish situation to turn normal soon.
“We missed Daman the most during lockdown.
Daman is the most favourite tourist destination for Surtis due to availability of liquor, good food and quality accommodation,” said Jignesh Gotawala, an architect.
Daman’s hotel business suffered major losses due to the global pandemic.
“Of the tourists, 75 percent are from Surat.
Visitors from Surat play an important role in keeping Daman’s leisure industry rolling.
We miss our regular customers from Surat,” said Harish Tangal, vice-president, Daman Hoteliers Association.