Team Yuva Panaji delivered an outstanding performance at Elgar 1.0, securing 1st place in the Flag Painting Competition and finishing as 4th Runners-Up at the cultural event.
The competition was hosted by Ghumat Mogi on January 24 and 25, 2026, at Shree Bodgeshwar Temple, Mapusa, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from several teams.
Despite stiff competition, the team’s dedication, creativity, and hard work paid off, earning them top recognition at the event. Their achievement reflects the growing spirit of youth-led cultural participation in Goa.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant joined the Natalancho Ekvott Christmas celebrations held at the Society of Pilar, marking the festive occasion in the presence of Father Nazareth Fernandes, Father Lawrence Fernandes and the priests of the Society of Pilar. The event reflected the spirit of Christmas through community participation, cultural warmth and shared goodwill.
During the celebrations, Dr. Sawant extended his heartfelt wishes to all on the occasion of Christmas and conveyed greetings for a happy and prosperous New Year. He appreciated the Society of Pilar for its continued contribution to social, educational and community-oriented initiatives, acknowledging the institution’s role in fostering inclusive values and service.
As part of the programme, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Sharkutori Table, which added a traditional and festive element to the celebrations. The occasion was marked by a warm and joyful atmosphere, reinforcing the message of unity, gratitude and togetherness that defines the Christmas season.
The Natalancho Ekvott celebrations once again highlighted the Society of Pilar’s commitment to cultural traditions and community engagement, bringing together faith leaders, dignitaries and well-wishers to celebrate the spirit of the season.
Carpe Diem – Majorda recently became the stage for an evening of heartfelt expression and shared experiences, as an Open Mic Evening unfolded in collaboration with Zeitgeist Goa and TEDx Panaji. Curated and hosted by Diya Padiyar and Loretta Rodrigues, the event revolved around the poignant theme “It’s About Time.”
From the very first act, the atmosphere was electric—filled with anticipation, warmth, and curiosity. The lineup reflected a beautiful mix of voices, perspectives, and forms of expression. Poetry, music, storytelling, and stand-up comedy wove a rich tapestry of emotion and creativity. Some performers were seasoned veterans, while others stood before an audience for the very first time. Each was met with equal respect and encouragement, creating a space where everyone felt heard and valued.
One particularly special moment was a debut stand-up performance that had the room erupting in laughter and applause. The crowd’s response reminded everyone of the unique magic that live, in-person storytelling can offer.
What made the evening even more special was the multilingual nature of the performances. Artists switched between languages with ease—blending cultures, experiences, and identities into their pieces. It wasn’t just the performers who took the spotlight. The audience, too, played an active role—offering questions, sharing their own reflections, and responding with visible emotion and support.
As the night drew to a close, a live band took over the stage, delivering soulful, heartfelt music that wrapped the evening in warmth. People left the venue smiling, inspired, and connected—not just to the performances, but to each other.
The Open Mic at Carpe Diem was more than just an event. It was a celebration of voice, presence, and the power of sharing your truth. Through collaboration and community, it became a moment in time where stories mattered, and every voice found its place.
The Goan Football Cup 2025 has emerged as a monumental celebration of sport, culture, and community abroad. Held at Cranford Community College in London on August 23, the tournament drew record participation, with 28 men’s teams and three women’s teams — making it the largest Goan football tournament outside Goa.
The second edition of the event reinforced the Goan community’s love for the game while showcasing its inclusive nature. Players from different communities competed side by side, with Goan teams putting up strong performances against sides featuring seasoned English 5-a-side players.
One of the most inspiring stories of the tournament was the participation of Wilred United Goa, led by manager Joe Vas. The team traveled from Goa to London, making a powerful statement about the global reach of Goan football. Their women’s team, which included former India junior international Anline Fernandes, dominated the competition and won the championship without conceding a single goal. Their victory, achieved in their very first appearance together, stands as a proud moment for Goan women’s football and the diaspora.
Southall Athletic WFC put on a strong performance to finish as runners-up in the women’s tournament after an unbeaten group stage. In the men’s category, it was Daily Ballin who emerged victorious, defeating Filthy Starz in a thrilling finale.
But the event was about much more than just the matches. The Goan Football Cup transformed into a festival, with families and fans enjoying authentic Goan food by Pratos De Goa, Feni cocktails by GoaTails, and vibrant live performances from artists Saneev, Rochus, and singer Braga. The atmosphere was electric, merging sport with cultural pride.
The prize distribution ceremony, led by community leaders Xavier Vas, Jules Alberto Dias, Ruksana Braz, and celebrated singer Mark Revlon, honoured team achievements and individual excellence.
With its growing stature, the Goan Football Cup has now firmly established itself as the flagship Goan sporting event outside India. As the community celebrates this success, one thing is clear — this is just the beginning of a powerful legacy that will continue to unite Goans and amplify their passion for football on a global stage.
St. Mathias, Malar – The much-loved Malar Bonderam festival, hosted by the St. Mathias Sports Club, returns with a vibrant and inclusive celebration of Goan culture on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Founded in 1967, the St. Mathias Sports Club has consistently been at the heart of community life in Malar, and this year’s Bonderam is set to bring generations together in a day-long celebration of identity, unity, and tradition.
At a recent press conference in Panjim, Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas opened the event by introducing key figures behind the scenes. Former Club President Ivo Azavedo gave insights into the origins of Bonderam and its evolving cultural significance. Remy De Almeida, Vice President, emphasized engaging the youth, while Sports Secretary and former footballer Remes Gomes outlined robust safety measures.
Award-winning actress Anisha Menezes, representing the youth wing, shared that rehearsals began two months ago, and the younger generation is buzzing with excitement. Veteran journalist Prakash Kamat praised festakar Marius Fernandes for leading with inclusivity, and confirmed the venue would be fully accessible.
The event will be hosted by beloved compere RJ Joed Almeida, who highlighted the importance of celebrating heritage from fresh perspectives and passing it forward to younger generations.
Event Highlights Include:
🕯️ Lighting of the Lamp at 11:00 AM
🌿 Backyard Gardening session by Dr. Suresh Kunkalikar
🎵 Konkani Kantaram and workshops with Dr. Glenis Mendonca
🍛 Authentic Goan food stalls
💃 Cultural dance performances
🎸 Youth band showcase
🎁 …and surprise activities throughout the day!
Free Entry | All Are Welcome
This year’s Malar Bonderam focuses on inclusivity, accessibility, and participation — calling on everyone from students to seniors, locals to visitors, to immerse themselves in Goan hospitality and togetherness.
🗓️ Date: 16th August 2025 📍 Location: St. Mathias, Malar ⏰ Time: 11 AM – 10 PM 🎟️ Entry: FREE
Come for the music, stay for the memories. Let’s celebrate a Goa that’s rich in history, rooted in community, and open to all.
