Tag: community celebration

Events in Goa

Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott Celebrates 50 Years of Struggle with Golden Jubilee at Verna

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Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott (GRE) celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of struggle and existence, with a grand event held at Verna in the presence of hundreds of fishers from across Goa, along with eminent guests and leaders of various fishing associations.


The programme was attended by Fr. Eremito Rebello, Christopher Fonseca, Orville D. Rodrigues, Alina Saldanha, and Member of Parliament Captain Viriato Fernandes. Presidents of fishermen associations from different parts of Goa were also present, reflecting the unity and solidarity of the fishing community.

On the occasion, GRE felicitated more than 35 senior fisher leaders who have dedicated their lives to the cause of traditional fishers. The organisation also honoured Director of Fisheries Chandrakant Velip and former Director of Fisheries Nandakishor Verlekar, along with several other fisher leaders from across Goa who have made significant contributions towards the welfare and protection of the fishing community, many of whom have faced imprisonment during their struggles.

Addressing the gathering, Fr. Eremito Rebello recalled his memories of late Matanhy Saldanha, describing him as a mass leader who lived and fought for the rights of fishers and the poor.

General Secretary of GRE, Olencio Simoes, stated that the organisation’s 50-year-long struggle has resulted in historic legislations that have benefited fishers in Goa and have also served as an inspiration for fishing communities worldwide. He cautioned that greater challenges lie ahead and appealed for unity to protect the rights and future of the fishing industry in Goa.

President of GRE, Agnelo Rodrigues, emotionally remembered late Matanhy Saldanha as his mentor and guiding force. He said that Saldanha dedicated his entire life to the fishing community and that the community’s survival today is rooted in his sacrifices and leadership.

The Golden Jubilee celebration stood as a tribute to the visionary founders, pioneer leaders, and thousands of fishers who sustained the movement for five decades. The event reaffirmed GRE’s commitment to continue its struggle for justice, sustainable fishing practices, and the protection of traditional fishing livelihoods in Goa and beyond.

#faith

St. Francis Xavier Parish, Duler Celebrates a Vibrant Day 1 of Christmas Fiesta

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Parish of St. Francis Xavier, Duler witnessed a vibrant and faith-filled beginning to its two-day Christmas Fiesta with the successful completion of Day 1 celebrations on January 3 at the St. Anthony School Grounds. Organised to encourage local talent while celebrating faith, relationships and culture, the event drew an enthusiastic response from parishioners and visitors alike.

The festive grounds came alive with food stalls, face painting counters, activity zones and various stalls, creating a warm and welcoming environment for families and children. The atmosphere reflected the true spirit of Christmas, marked by togetherness, joy and community participation.

Adding to the celebrations, parishioners took to the side stage to showcase their talents through soulful singing, expressive poetry recitations and energetic group dance performances. These presentations highlighted the creativity, confidence and cultural richness within the parish and were warmly appreciated by the audience.

From 6.30 pm onwards, the screening of the Konkani movie Mog Asum, by the makers of Nachoiam Kumpasar, added cultural depth to the evening and was well received by the gathering.

Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Joshua D’Souza, Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly and MLA of the Mapusa Constituency, described the event as a lively experience that enables people to connect with one another. He noted that such celebrations play an important role in fostering community bonding.

Day 1 of the Christmas Fiesta was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Joshua D’Souza, Guest of Honour Marwin Gomes, Chief Architect of the Public Works Department, Goa, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Fernandes, SVD, Episcopal Vicar (Religious) of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, and Wilson D’Souza, DySP and SDPO, Mapusa. The parish also expressed its appreciation for the presence of Bro. Edmund Peter Lemos, Chairperson of St. Anthony’s Institute, and Cyril Fernandes, President of the Catholic Association of Goa.

The Parish of St. Francis Xavier, Duler has invited everyone to be part of Day 2 of the Christmas Fiesta on January 4, featuring the tiatr ‘Don Dis Sonvsarantle’ by Ulhas Tari, with festivities continuing from 5 pm onwards. The parish extended heartfelt gratitude to all voluntee

Events in Goa

Shravan Special Cookery Contest Sees Enthusiastic Participation in Fatorda

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Fatorda, July 28, 2025 – A vibrant celebration of tradition and taste unfolded at the Phoenix Lane Hall Atlas, Phoenix Building in Fatorda, where the Ultimate Shravan Special Cookery Contest took center stage. Organised by Sonal R. Kakodkar under the Chirag Datta Naik Initiative, the event offered a flavourful platform for showcasing Goan culinary heritage.

The contest saw over 40 passionate participants competing in two uniquely themed categories — Shravan Special Savoury and Sweet Treats with Sabudana. Each dish presented was a testament to the rich cultural significance and devotion associated with the holy month of Shravan.

Esteemed judges Sonal Doshi and Rajlaxmi Biche evaluated entries based on taste, presentation, and thematic creativity.

🏆 Winners – Shravan Special Savoury (Category 1):

  • 1st Prize – Amita Ladhad
  • 2nd Prize – Anandi Narvekar
  • 3rd Prize – Shruti Khandeparkar
  • Consolation – Chanda Naik & Varsha Dessai
  • Special Prize – Leena Sirsat

🍬 Winners – Sweet Treats with Sabudana (Category 2):

  • 1st Prize – Varsha Dessai
  • 2nd Prize – Pratibha Sardesai
  • 3rd Prize – Amita Ladhad
  • Consolation – Pradhnya Sardesai & Aparna Hede
  • Special Prize – Shruti Khandeparkar

Winners received cash prizes, but it was the spirit of participation, creativity, and cultural pride that truly won the day.

The contest concluded with a round of applause and cheer, as participants came together for a group celebration. Beyond a culinary competition, the Shravan Special Cookery Contest served as a reminder of how food connects people, preserves tradition, and inspires joy.

Events in Goa

Duler Parish Empowers Grandparents and Elders with Cybercrime Awareness on Appreciation Day

Tanisha Cardozo

The Parish of St Francis Xavier Church, Duler, came alive with spirit, song, and sincere gratitude on Sunday, July 27, 2025, as it marked Grandparents’ and Elders’ Appreciation Day with warmth and purpose. Spearheaded by the Social Apostolate Cell (SAC) and Family Apostolate Cell (FAC), the event honoured the legacy, resilience, and wisdom of the senior members of the community.

The morning began with a Thanksgiving Mass, beautifully attended by parishioners and dedicated to the Grandparents and Elders. The Senior Citizens’ Forum of the parish joined hands with the SAC to create a meaningful prayer service followed by an Educational-Cultural Celebration that brought generations together.

Through touching Konkani songs and skits, the Catechism Children and Youth not only paid tribute to the elders but also brought attention to a pressing modern issue — Cybercrime.

The Chief Guest, DySP Wilson Cipriano D’Souza, applauded the parish for blending tradition with contemporary challenges. He assured seniors that the Mapusa Police stands with them and encouraged them to approach his office for any support.

The highlight of the day was an insightful presentation by Cybercrime Branch Inspector Vidyanand Pawar, who explained the evolving nature of digital frauds targeting elders and offered practical safety tips for using smartphones, banking apps, and social media.

Adding grace to the celebration were Justice Sabino Braganza and Range Forest Officer Maryann D’Souza, both special invitees who reinforced the message of appreciation and empowerment.

A delightful cultural performance by the Senior Citizens, featuring a traditional Mando, fashion show, and musical acts, brought joy and connection to the community. The event closed with a joyful fellowship lunch.

In the evening, the celebration extended beyond the church walls. The FAC, Parish Pastoral Council, and Somudai leaders reached out to the homebound and isolated elders, gifting them handmade cards by Catechism children and tokens of love, ensuring no one was left behind.

Fr Anthony Fernandes, Parish Priest, summed it up best:

“Our elders are timeless beacons of faith and wisdom. Today, we not only honour them but also stand by them as a community.”

Indeed, the event was more than a celebration—it was a testament to the dignity, safety, and shared identity of the Parish’s senior citizens.

#faith

Delilah Lobo Joins in Siolim for Feast of St. Maria Goretti, Celebrating Faith and Community Unity

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Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Siolim, Goa – July 6, 2025: The serene village of Siolim witnessed a heartfelt celebration of the Feast of St. Maria Goretti at Baman Waddo, bringing together locals in a beautiful expression of faith, harmony, and togetherness. The annual event honoured the virtues of St. Maria Goretti — a young Catholic saint remembered for her purity, courage, and forgiveness.

Among those present to support and bless the community were Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo, Sarpanch Shri Amit Morajkar, and Panch Member Shri Sandesh Hadfadkar. Their participation highlighted the close relationship between local leadership and community life in Goa.

The feast began with a solemn mass, followed by hymns and prayers that resonated through the lanes of Baman Waddo. The event was more than a religious observance — it was a vibrant reflection of the community’s unity and devotion. Residents, young and old, worked hand-in-hand to prepare the venue, organise liturgical proceedings, and serve refreshments to guests.

“This event is more than just a religious gathering. It’s a reminder of how faith can bring people together and strengthen community ties,” remarked Sarpanch Shri Amit Morajkar.

MLA Delilah Lobo also commended the ward’s dedication, saying, “It’s inspiring to see how Siolim celebrates both tradition and unity. The values of St. Maria Goretti are truly alive in the way this community comes together.”

The Feast of St. Maria Goretti in Baman Waddo once again reinforced the power of community celebration — a testament to Siolim’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.