Category: Human Interest

Human Interest

Goa Declares Paid Holiday on December 20 for Zilla Panchayat Polling

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

In a move aimed at encouraging greater voter participation, the Goa government has announced a paid holiday on Saturday, December 20, 2025, in view of the Zilla Panchayat elections scheduled across North and South Goa. The decision is intended to ensure that eligible voters are able to exercise their franchise without work-related constraints.

According to a notification issued by the General Administration Department, the paid holiday will apply to all government departments as well as industrial and commercial establishments across the state. The order also extends to private offices, daily wage earners, and casual and contract workers who are eligible to vote in the Zilla Panchayat polls.

The announcement underscores the government’s effort to facilitate a smooth and inclusive polling process by removing potential barriers to voter turnout. By covering a wide spectrum of employment categories, the order seeks to ensure that employees across sectors are able to participate in the democratic process.

Following the announcement, there has been public interest regarding the applicability of the paid holiday to schools and other educational institutions. Officials have indicated that further instructions or clarifications may be issued by the government in this regard.

The Zilla Panchayat elections are an important component of grassroots governance in Goa, and the declaration of a paid holiday reflects the administration’s focus on strengthening democratic participation at the local level.

Human Interest

Rare Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Makes Closest Approach to Earth on December 19

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS will make its closest approach to Earth on Friday, December 19, marking a significant moment in the journey of one of the rarest cosmic visitors ever observed in our solar system. The comet was discovered on July 1 by NASA-funded ATLAS telescopes in Chile and has since drawn global attention from astronomers and space agencies.

3I/ATLAS is only the third confirmed interstellar object known to have passed through our solar system, following 1I/’Oumuamua in 2017 and comet 2I/Borisov in 2019. Analysis of its trajectory shows that the comet originated from beyond the solar system and will eventually return to interstellar space after completing its passage through the inner regions around the sun.

At its closest approach, the comet will come no nearer than approximately 1.8 astronomical units from Earth, or about 168 million miles (270 million kilometers), according to the European Space Agency. This distance is nearly twice the average distance between the Earth and the sun, ensuring that the comet poses no threat to Earth or any other planet as it passes through the inner solar system.

Despite the safe distance, the flyby is of major scientific interest. Observing the comet near its closest approach allows astronomers to study the dust and gases released from its icy nucleus as it warms under the sun’s radiation. These observations provide rare insights into how comets and planetary materials form around stars beyond our own solar system.

In recent months, several observatories and space agencies have focused their instruments on 3I/ATLAS. New images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope and the JUICE Jupiter probe were released recently, showing the interstellar traveler speeding through the inner solar system. The comet’s passage is also being shared with the public through a free livestream hosted by Gianluca Masi at the Virtual Telescope Project, scheduled to begin at 11 p.m. EST on December 18, weather permitting.

As 3I/ATLAS continues its brief visit, scientists hope the data gathered will deepen our understanding of the building blocks of planetary systems beyond our own, making this fleeting encounter a valuable chapter in the study of interstellar objects.

Human Interest

A Life Remembered: Panjim Gathers to Honour the Legacy of Late Senhor Zito de Ornelas Rodrigues Gomes

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

An atmosphere of remembrance, music and heartfelt tributes filled the St Inez Church Hall in Panjim as friends, admirers and family gathered on December 15 to honour the life and legacy of late Senhor Zito de Ornelas Rodrigues Gomes, a pioneering figure in Goan music and a respected public servant. Deeply rooted in Loutolim and a long-time resident of Panjim, Senhor Zito was remembered as a true son of Goa whose life seamlessly blended artistry, service and community spirit.

The month’s Mass was presided over by Fr Derrick Xavier Fernandes, Parish Priest of St John the Baptist Church, Pilerne, followed by the blessing of the grave. The condolence gathering was hosted by Clube Marius Festacar and brought together eminent speakers, artists and well-wishers for an evening of reflection and gratitude.

Senior journalist Prakash Kamat coordinated the programme, warmly welcoming those present and setting the tone for the evening. In a deeply personal conversation, he engaged with Festakar Marius Fernandes, a close friend and long-time cultural collaborator of Senhor Zito, who spoke movingly about his early passion for music and his role as a trailblazer in post-colonial Goa.

Marius recalled how Senhor Zito founded Goa’s first band after the Portuguese era, the four-member ensemble Tuna Los Coimbranos, which performed in elite clubs across Goa. Named after the University of Coimbra in Lisbon, the band blended Goan, Portuguese and South American influences, leaving a lasting imprint on the region’s musical landscape. His visits to Mormugao Harbour to listen to musicians from visiting cruise liners and his lifelong admiration for legendary Portuguese fado singer Amália Rodrigues deeply shaped his musical sensibilities.

Beyond music, Senhor Zito served with quiet dedication in the Goa Government Secretariat, contributing to the formulation of the Tenants and Mundkar Acts — landmark legislations that continue to shape Goan society. Former colleague Olinda Fernandes spoke of his sincerity, discipline and unwavering commitment to public service.

In the 1970s, Senhor Zito worked with the Public Works Department in Qatar before returning to Goa with his wife, Professor Fatima Lucia, where both remained deeply involved in community and cultural life. Former Director of Information Gurunath Pai reflected on their long friendship, remembering Zito as a man of grace and humility whose presence united people through kindness, music and laughter.

His legacy continues through his daughter, Dr Gwendolyn de Ornelas, a respected publisher and curator who carries forward his creative spirit and commitment to cultural preservation.

The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Dominic D’Souza, President of Clube Marius Festacar, followed by a moment of silence and a gentle musical interlude — a fitting tribute to a life lived as a symphony of service, artistry and love for Goa.

Human Interest

World’s Tallest Messi Statue Unveiled in Kolkata Ahead of GOAT Tour

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

A towering 70-foot iron statue of football legend Lionel Messi has been completed in Kolkata, with organisers calling it the largest statue of the Argentine superstar in the world. Created by the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club at Lake Town in South Dum Dum, the massive installation depicts Messi proudly lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy — an image etched permanently into football history. The final finishing touches are currently underway, led by Monty Paul and his team, as the surrounding area is also being readied for the grand reveal.

West Bengal Minister and Sree Bhumi Sporting Club President Sujit Bose confirmed that the statue, despite its size and complexity, was completed in an astonishing forty days. Speaking to ANI, he said, “This is a very big statue, 70 foot in height. There is no other statue of Messi this big in the world. Messi is coming to Kolkata, and there are a lot of fans of Messi.” Bose recalled the legacy of world football icons who have visited Kolkata over the years, noting that Maradona, Emiliano Martinez and Ronaldinho had all graced the city, making Messi’s arrival feel even more historic for fans.

He shared that the idea for the statue grew naturally from local expectations. “People were saying we have a statue of Maradona, so why won’t there be one of Messi,” Bose explained. The timing of the tribute has generated added excitement, with Bose emphasising its significance ahead of the 2026 World Cup: “Messi will like this statue. Inauguration will be on the 13th virtually from Kolkata.”

Organisers stated that while Messi’s security concerns prevent him from being physically present, he will inaugurate the statue virtually on December 13. They assured that the finishing work would be completed within the next couple of days. Bose also acknowledged the strong support of state authorities, saying, “The Government has helped us a lot.”

The installation has already captured the imagination of football fans across West Bengal, with many expressing anticipation for the official unveiling. According to the organisers, the massive tribute celebrates not only Messi’s unparalleled legacy but also the deep emotional connection the people of Kolkata share with the sport. The city, known for its passionate football culture, now prepares to honour one of the most celebrated athletes of all time with a monument befitting his global stature.

Human Interest

Aashna Hegde Marries Longtime Boyfriend Aditya Kumar: Couple Shares First Wedding Moments

allycaralgoa

Famous content creator Aashna Hegde has officially married her longtime boyfriend Aditya Kumar, marking a beautiful new chapter in their relationship. The couple took to social media to share the happy news, posting captivating moments from their wedding celebration that instantly melted hearts across the internet.

The photos showcased the couple in traditional attire, radiating joy and love. Fans, fellow creators, and industry friends filled the comments with congratulations as the images began circulating widely online.

Aashna, known for her lifestyle content, music videos, and strong presence on social media, has often spoken about Aditya’s unwavering support throughout her career. Their wedding announcement has been met with overwhelming affection from her fanbase, who have followed the couple’s journey closely over the years.

The celebration, intimate and elegant, highlighted the duo’s emotional bond as they stepped into married life. From heartfelt rituals to candid portraits, the couple’s shared posts reflect both tradition and personal charm—true to Aashna’s aesthetic.

With the beautiful announcement now public, fans eagerly await more glimpses and details from their wedding festivities.