Events in Goa

Cross-Cultural Magic in Goa: Korea’s Ms. Jaewon Kim Performs Vande Mataram


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa experienced a beautiful moment of cross-cultural harmony at the inaugural ceremony of the WAVES Film Bazaar when Korea’s Ms. Jaewon Kim, Member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, took the stage to perform a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram. As India celebrates the 150th anniversary of its national song, her gesture resonated deeply with the audience.

The hall rose in an emotional standing ovation as her voice carried sincerity, respect, and warmth, creating a rare moment of cultural connection. The atmosphere shifted from formal celebration to a shared experience of admiration and unity as her performance honoured India’s heritage with genuine gratitude.

Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan praised Ms. Kim for singing the full version of Vande Mataram, acknowledging the effort and respect behind her gesture. The performance beautifully reflected the growing bonds between India and South Korea, showing how music transcends differences and brings cultures together.

Adding to the sense of shared artistry, Ms. Kim also sang a Korean song for the gathering, offering the audience a glimpse into her own culture. With filmmakers, creators, and delegates from around the world present, her performance stood out as a gentle reminder that art flows freely across borders, touching hearts and strengthening friendships in the most unexpected and meaningful ways.

Travel

Oman Delegation Explores Goa’s Culture, Heritage, and Hospitality


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Goa Tourism recently hosted a distinguished delegation of influencers, travel agents, and partners from Oman on an exclusive three-day journey that brought together the best of Goa’s culture, heritage, and hospitality. This carefully curated visit was designed to deepen cultural ties and lay the foundation for future tourism collaborations between Goa and Oman, reflecting centuries of shared history and maritime exchange between the two regions.

The journey began with a warm welcome at The Yellow House, a charming heritage site that perfectly set the tone for what lay ahead. Here, the delegation was introduced to Goan warmth and hospitality over a traditional high tea, giving them their first taste of the state’s rich culinary and social traditions.

A guided heritage walk at the historic Aguad Port and Jail Complex followed, immersing guests in Goa’s layered past, colonial architecture, and stories that have shaped its identity. The experience provided a meaningful context to Goa beyond its beaches, spotlighting the state’s deep-rooted cultural significance.

Later, the delegation visited Devaaya in Malar, Divar, where a wholesome brunch was served amidst serene surroundings. The location is known for promoting holistic living and wellness rooted in Goan traditions — a growing appeal for international travelers seeking mindful travel experiences. A lively stroll through the local market introduced the guests to the vibrancy of everyday Goan life, with its riot of colors, spices, and friendly chatter.

The Honourable Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of the visit by stating, “Goa has shared longstanding cultural and historical ties with Oman, rooted in centuries of trade, exchange, and shared traditions.” Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added, “This visit was an opportunity to showcase Goa’s diverse offerings and highlight Goa’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for visitors from Arabian countries.”

The visit culminated with a beachside dinner at Britto’s, one of Goa’s most iconic culinary landmarks, where the delegation savored Goan cuisine against the backdrop of a starlit coastline. Before departing, guests were taken to the historic Taj Heritage Village — a fitting close to a journey that celebrated heritage, hospitality, and future partnerships.

EduConnect

PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Students Celebrate Raksha Bandhan at Rashtrapati Bhavan


In a remarkable celebration of culture and unity, four students from PM SHRI Government High School Morpirla — Daksh Velip, Priyanshu Velip, Ranjisha Gaonkar, and Ridhi Velip — accompanied by National Awardee Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda, visited Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi to celebrate Raksha Bandhan.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of special handmade cards and rakhis to the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu. The President graciously accepted the gifts and expressed her admiration for the students’ colourful Goan costumes, which added a vibrant cultural touch to the occasion.

This unique opportunity allowed the students from the tribal village of Morpirla to immerse themselves in the traditions and grandeur of the nation’s highest office. They also had the chance to visit Amrit Udyan, where they enjoyed the lush greenery and diverse flora, adding to the memorable experience.

Headmistress Miranda, who attended the At Home Reception hosted by the President on Independence Day last year, shared her joy:

“It is a golden opportunity to see our students experience the cultural significance of Raksha Bandhan at Rashtrapati Bhavan.”

The President also encouraged the students to plant trees and nurture them, promoting environmental responsibility.

The students expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu, the Ministry of Education, the Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Director of Education Sir Shailesh Zingde, and the State Project Director of Goa Samagra Shiksha Dr. S.S. Ghadi, for making this visit possible.

This visit will forever remain a treasured memory for the students, symbolising the bond between tradition, education, and national pride. The students will cherish this moment always.