Tag: Art

Events in Goa

Art Beyond Barriers: Accessibility at the Serendipity Arts Festival 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Serendipity Arts Festival returns to Panaji this December for its tenth edition, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to making art accessible to all. As South Asia’s largest multi-disciplinary arts festival, SAF has grown into a dynamic platform where artistic practices, lived experiences, and community relationships converge.

This year, the festival once again transforms Goa’s riverfront and public spaces into vibrant zones of creativity, connection and inclusion from December 12 to 21. Throughout the year, the festival travelled through Birmingham, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Varanasi, Chennai, Gurugram, Dubai and Paris, offering previews of its tenth edition and engaging new audiences beyond Goa. Accessibility has been at the foundation of the festival since its inception, and in 2025 it continues to be central to the programming curated by poet and artist Salil Chaturvedi.

At the Access Village in the Old GMC Complex, sensorial, interactive and community-centred projects welcome visitors with diverse needs to experience art in ways that honour dignity and participation.

This vision is echoed by founder and patron Sunil Kant Munjal, who emphasises that culture must belong to everyone and that no visitor should ever feel excluded. The festival brings a range of unique experiences such as Scented Stories, a fragrance-based storytelling workshop; Hand/Eye, which explores touch as a mode of visual perception; and Breath + Sound Immersion, which blends meditative breathwork with sound healing.

Spaces like Studio Me and the Sensory Room provide open, calming environments for neurodiverse and neurotypical visitors to decompress and create. Curated by Tanul Vikamshi, the Paper to Sculpture workshop focuses on recycled materials and collaborative processes, while Nature’s Symphony offers blind audiences an auditory and tactile introduction to urban birdlife at Art Park and the Access Village.

The Gallery presents Therefore I Am, showcasing seven artists whose practices draw deeply from lived disability. Performances include Silent Rhythms, featuring India’s first group of deaf performers led by Dr. Alim Chandani, and Poems on the Move 2.0, curated by Thukral & Tagra with Chaturvedi, bringing live poetry readings into shuttle cabs across the city.

At The Lab, workshops by Siddhant Shah, Access for All, Rohan Marathe and Shivani Dhillon invite children, seniors and neurodiverse participants into sessions such as Dear Normal, Sound of Silence, Sensory Storytelling and Panchtantra Stories. Special projects further expand the accessibility commitment, including Cinema for Every Sense with audio-described Hindi films and a Pilates Flow Performance by Kaizen Wellness.

SAF Director Smriti Rajgarhia reflects on the decade-long journey, emphasising that accessibility has been a core priority long before it became a larger cultural conversation and remains central to the festival’s mission. Co-patron Shefali Munjal echoes this, noting that the festival has grown into a movement that fosters creative and social connection while supporting artists and cultural heritage.

As registrations for the 2025 edition go live, audiences are invited to secure their passes and explore a growing programme of exhibitions, performances, workshops and immersive encounters designed to make art a space for everyone.

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“Different Strokes” Art Exhibition Brings Hope Through Creativity with Tr. Dylan Fernandes at Sanskruti Bhavan

Tanisha Cardozo

The “Different Strokes” Art Exhibition at Sanskruti Bhavan, Central Library, Patto, Panjim, has brought together a vibrant collection of over a hundred artworks created by twenty-five talented artists from Goa. This inspiring exhibition, which is open to the public until Sunday, 23rd November 2025, carries a powerful purpose—every artwork showcased contributes to a larger mission of hope, compassion, and transformation. Organized by artist and curator Mrs. Rubina Dsouza in collaboration with Don Bosco’s Charities, the exhibition was inaugurated by Arch. Neville Monteiro, President of ‘Assistencia’. It serves as a meaningful platform where art meets philanthropy, allowing visitors to experience creativity while supporting a significant social cause.

Among the many artists featured, the works of Teacher Dylan Fernandes from Holy Cross High School, Siolim, daughter of Domingos and Benediana Fernandes, stand out as a heartfelt offering as part of her Pilgrimage of Hope during the Jubilee Year. This initiative gave her, along with many other artists, an opportunity to lend their artistic talent to make a difference in the lives of those in need. The exhibition features both established names and emerging creators, all united in their desire to bring hope to the marginalized.

Don Bosco Konkan Development Society, a branch of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has long been committed to improving the lives of children, youth, women, and socially disadvantaged communities. Their mission—“Transforming Lives for a Better Tomorrow”—is reflected through their numerous programmes focusing on education, skill development, women’s empowerment, child care, and community welfare. With the entire proceeds from the sale of artworks dedicated to supporting these outreach initiatives, “Different Strokes” stands as a true example of art being used as a force for good. The exhibition not only celebrates creativity but also amplifies the collective responsibility of society to uplift its vulnerable sections. It is an event that touches the heart, inspires action, and proves that art, when shared generously, can indeed transform lives.

Fit & Fabulous

Sonam Kapoor Stuns in Vintage Princess Diana–Inspired Pink Suit for Chic Pregnancy Reveal

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Bollywood actress and style icon Sonam Kapoor recently made a show-stopping pregnancy announcement, and true to her fashion-forward persona, she did it in a way that had the fashion world talking. The actor, currently in the UAE for work, revealed her second pregnancy at an event hosted by luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet, dressed in a Barbie-pink vintage suit that could easily be mistaken for a modern masterpiece. Styled by her sister and stylist Rhea Kapoor, Sonam’s ensemble paid homage to none other than the late Princess Diana, who herself was celebrated for her impeccable sense of style and iconic power dressing.

The suit, designed by Margaretha Ley in 1988 for the German fashion house Escada, is a tailored skirt suit in pure wool, featuring oversized padded shoulders, large black buttons, and a black pocket square. Its silhouette and detailing mirror the elegance and authority that Princess Diana carried in public appearances between 1988 and 1990. Sonam completed the look with sheer black stockings and YSL black pointed-toe kitten heels, while accessorizing with a black Escada clutch with gold hardware and minimal gold jewelry, including thick hooped earrings and gold rings on both hands. Oversized black sunglasses added a modern edge, proving that vintage fashion can feel contemporary and bold when styled thoughtfully.

The actor’s Instagram post announcing her pregnancy was met with adoration from fans and celebrities alike. Her husband, Anand Ahuja, affectionately commented “double trouble” and “Baby ma.. also chicccccc mama!” while her mother, Sunita Kapoor, and friends from the industry showered love in the comments. This chic and deliberate fashion choice underscores Sonam’s position as a trendsetter, blending timeless fashion with personal milestones.

Sonam Kapoor, who previously welcomed son Vayu in 2022, continues to inspire with her sartorial choices, demonstrating that pregnancy style can be both glamorous and empowered. With this Princess Diana–inspired announcement, Sonam has reinforced her reputation as one of Bollywood’s most fearless and influential fashion icons.

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Udant Honors Six Goan Icons on International Men’s Day, Celebrates the Spirit of Positive Masculinity

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Udant marked International Men’s Day with an inspiring celebration that brought together distinguished achievers, dignitaries, artists, and well-wishers in an evening dedicated to honoring the evolving narrative of masculinity. The event emphasized that true strength lies not in dominance but in empathy, kindness, and the courage to remain authentic. The program commenced with the traditional Lighting of the Lamp by Chief Guest Mrs. Smita Patil, Chairperson of CII IWN, the Guest of Honor Capt. Rajesh Yadav—recently crowned Mr. India 2025 in the Senior Category—alongside former awardees and the Udant organizing team. Their collective presence gave the evening a solemn yet uplifting beginning. Children from the Udant Centre set an emotional tone for the evening with a heartfelt welcome song, followed by a warm musical interlude by young guitarist Master Mathias, whose performance received enthusiastic applause.

The atmosphere grew more celebratory as Udant felicitated six remarkable Goan icons whose dedication and achievements have significantly shaped Goa’s cultural and social identity. Mr. Vinayak Khedekar was honored for his lifelong work as an eminent writer and folklorist, preserving the essence of Goan tradition through his insightful research and literary brilliance. Mr. Damodar Mauzo, an acclaimed author known for his fearless storytelling, was recognized for his monumental contribution to literature and his ability to portray the soul of Goa with striking authenticity. Mr. Siddhant Mulgaonkar Patil received the award for Inspirational Spirit, a testament to his resilience and commitment to transforming personal struggle into purposeful expression through writing and thought leadership.

Filmmaker and digital creator Mr. Mario Pimenta was celebrated for his innovative storytelling and ability to reach and inspire audiences across borders through social media. Dr. Pravin Gaonkar was recognized for his pivotal role as an Indian Classical Musician and educator, committed to nurturing young talents and preserving rich musical traditions. Acclaimed fashion visionary Mr. Praveen Saldanha, known as Monty Sally, was honored for his creative excellence in transforming narratives into distinctive couture, making a notable mark in the world of fashion.

The evening also witnessed the presence of former awardees, including renowned musician and composer Mr. Roque Lazarus and ace fashion photographer Mr. Prasad Pankar, whose attendance reaffirmed the lasting bond between Udant and the individuals it has honored over the years. Their presence added depth and continuity to the event’s spirit of mentorship and community. As the evening drew to a close, Mrs. Rahila Khan delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, awardees, performers, and guests who contributed to making the occasion truly memorable. The program concluded with a soulful performance by Scully Patricia Fernandes, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of joy, reflection, and appreciation.

Guests ended the evening with refreshments generously sponsored by Taj Cidade de Goa and Taj Vivanta Panjim, along with tea and vadas prepared by the chefs of Ddhyana – the wellness centre. The celebration not only honored outstanding individuals but also reaffirmed Udant’s commitment to fostering positive masculinity and recognizing those who uplift society with creativity, compassion, and courage.

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Malabar Group Celebrates Children’s Day Across 1531 Micro Learning Centres in India

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Malabar Group, one of the world’s leading jewellery retailers, celebrated Children’s Day with heartfelt programmes across its 1531 Micro Learning Centres spread throughout India. More than sixty thousand underprivileged children supported by these centres took part in the celebrations, which began with the distribution of sweets and continued with activities designed to create a joyful, inclusive, and enriching environment for every child. Senior representatives from Malabar Group, community leaders, and dignitaries were present at various centres, making the day memorable for the young participants.

The Micro Learning Centres were established to support children who had been forced into labour or had to discontinue schooling due to difficult social or economic circumstances. Each centre provides a full year of age-appropriate primary education, enabling these children to transition back into the formal school system. Parents, community leaders, police officials, health department personnel, and Malabar Group teams joined the children in activities intended to build confidence, encourage participation, and nurture a love for learning.

Nutrition plays an equally vital role in the functioning of the centres. By offering milk, fruits, and eggs daily, the MLCs ensure that children receive essential nourishment to help them focus and learn better. The programme relies on trained graduates from local communities who serve as teachers, maintaining a ratio of one teacher for every forty children. This grassroots model has already borne remarkable results, with approximately thirty thousand children successfully returning to mainstream education through the initiative.

Speaking about the significance of the programme, Malabar Group Chairman M. P. Ahammed emphasized that the initiative addresses two of the most crucial needs of children—nutrition and education. He stated that a child learns best when they feel secure and cared for, and that nourishment strengthens their ability to study while education gives them direction. Together, these two elements empower a child to build a future rooted in confidence and dignity. He added that the Micro Learning Centres reflect the Group’s commitment to long-term community upliftment and form a key part of its broader CSR efforts.

The centres operate under Malabar Group’s Hunger Free World initiative, which distributes one lakh five thousand food packets every day across India while also supporting communities in Zambia and Ethiopia. Over the years, the Group has invested more than three hundred and fifty-six crore rupees in various social welfare programmes. These initiatives have touched the lives of more than seventeen lakh beneficiaries, spanning key areas such as women’s empowerment, healthcare access, educational scholarships for girls, and the Grandma Home initiative that provides shelter and care for elderly women.

This Children’s Day celebration across the Micro Learning Centres once again highlighted Malabar Group’s belief that every child deserves access to nourishment, education, and opportunities to grow with dignity. The celebrations not only brought joy to thousands of young faces but also reinforced the Group’s ongoing commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities through sustained social impact initiatives.