Leicester, UK – 21st August 2025: A historic cultural milestone will be marked in Leicester this August with the city’s first-ever Ekvottachem Fest – a people-powered celebration of Goan identity, togetherness, and tradition. Held at John Bosco Hall from 6:00 pm onwards, the festival is the brainchild of globally renowned Festakar Marius Fernandes, the visionary behind over 100 grassroots cultural festivals around the world.
What is Ekvottachem Fest?
Rooted in the Goan word “ekvott”, meaning unity, the festival brings the Goan community together in a celebration that transcends borders. True to its ethos, the event is completely community-driven – with no sponsors, no VIP guests, and no commercial backing. Instead, it shines a spotlight on shared heritage, volunteer spirit, and cultural pride.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Balcaoacho Gozalli – Goan-style chats capturing the essence of village balcaos (balconies), promoting intergenerational storytelling.
- Kottiacho Nach – A vibrant traditional coconut shell dance conceptualised by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas.
- Festacarachi Pasoi – A Leicester-style heritage walk inspired by Goa’s rich history.
- Karyashala – Interactive workshops teaching the making of traditional Goan sweets.
- Goenche Jevonn – An authentic Goan food experience.
- Live Music & Dance Performances – Celebrating Goan rhythms and local talents.
One of the festival’s major highlights will be the launch of “Saxtti Beats”, a youth-led Goan music band based in Leicester. This debut symbolises the vibrant energy of the next generation carrying forward the cultural torch.
The Leicester edition marks Marius Fernandes’ 103rd community festival globally, and the third in the UK, under his visionary movement: “Festakar Without Borders”. Past editions have empowered communities across continents to celebrate their culture without the constraints of commercialisation.
Local cultural champions Espirito Roy Sequeira, Melba Fernandes, Elvina Maria Fernandes, Steven Gonsalves, and Jancia Da Silva Almeida have played a pivotal role in shaping and supporting this event.
Beyond the festivities, Ekvottachem Fest is a call to UK-based Goans – especially the youth – to reconnect with their language, roots, and traditions, while embracing the diversity and inclusivity of modern Leicester.
As Festakar Marius Fernandes says:
“Goans everywhere share a common bond of unity. Whether in Goa, the UK, or anywhere in the world, our heritage, values, and togetherness are what keep our community strong.”
The Ekvottachem Fest is not just a one-day event – it’s the beginning of a cultural reawakening for Goans in the UK and beyond.
📍Event Details:
Ekvottachem Fest – Festival of Unity
📅 Saturday, 23 August 2025
🕕 6:00 PM onwards
📌 John Bosco Hall, Leicester
🎟️ Entry: Free
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