Tag: Cultural Festival

Events in Goa

Serendipity Arts Festival Returns to Goa for Its Landmark 10th Edition

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Serendipity Arts Festival is set to return to Panjim, Goa, from 12–21 December 2025 for its landmark 10th edition, offering a 10-day celebration of music, dance, theatre, visual arts, craft, photography, and immersive experiences for all ages. This December, Panjim will once again transform into a nucleus of creativity, presenting over 250 projects curated by more than 35 leading voices. The Festival unites artists, performers, chefs, musicians, designers, and storytellers from across India and the world, promising families, students, travellers, and culture enthusiasts a vibrant and unforgettable experience.

Over the past decade, Serendipity Arts Festival has embraced a nomadic spirit, bringing its celebration to cities across India and beyond. From Birmingham to Ahmedabad, Delhi, Varanasi, Chennai, Gurugram, and Dubai, the Festival has fostered artistic exchange, cultural exploration, and community engagement, culminating in Goa for its largest edition yet. Founder–Patron Sunil Kant Munjal reflects that culture builds empathy, cultivates leadership, and teaches what education alone cannot—kindness, patience, and the ability to hold multiple perspectives. The Festival transforms public spaces into living canvases of creativity and supports hundreds of emerging artists across South Asia.

The 10th edition of Serendipity Arts Festival is rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and accessibility. Events are family-friendly, mostly free to attend, and spread across walkable routes with free shuttles connecting venues. The Festival unfolds across multiple locations in Panjim, including the Old GMC Complex, Art Park, Festival Barge along the Mandovi, and the Nagalli Hills Arena. Accessibility features, volunteer assistance, sustainable practices, and interactive sessions for children and individuals with special needs reflect the Festival’s commitment to responsible cultural growth.

Visitors are encouraged to follow hygiene and safety guidelines, including responsible parking, shuttle usage, and use of refillable water bottles. First-aid facilities and information desks are available at all venues. While most projects are free with registration, tickets for limited events can be booked online via the Festival website or app.

As it celebrates ten years, Serendipity Arts Festival remains committed to its simple yet powerful vision: culture is for everyone. With its expansive and diverse program across disciplines, the Festival invites audiences to Goa not just for a holiday, but for a celebration of creativity, connection, and community. Registrations are now open for the 2025 edition, and audiences can book their Art Pass, explore workshops, exhibitions, and performances, and stay updated with the latest announcements on the Festival website.

Events in Goa

CM Pramod Sawant Inaugurates 5th Kala Srujanotsav 2025 at Sankhali

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Sankhali, Goa — Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the 5th edition of Kala Srujanotsav 2025, an annual cultural celebration organised by the Sarkari Karmachari Saunskrutik Manch Goa, at Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali.

The event aims to spotlight the rich artistic traditions of Goa while offering a vibrant stage for government employees to showcase their multi-disciplinary talents—from performing arts and visual art to music, drama, literature and craftsmanship.

The inaugural ceremony witnessed enthusiastic participation from employees across various departments, along with lively cultural performances that reflected Goa’s diversity and artistic depth.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted the importance of cultural engagement in strengthening community bonds, promoting creativity, and nurturing the artistic expression of government employees.

He noted that platforms like Kala Srujanotsav not only preserve Goa’s cultural identity but also motivate individuals to explore their creative potential beyond professional roles.

The festival continues to serve as an enriching opportunity to celebrate unity, artistic excellence, and cultural pride—bringing together communities, families, and art lovers from across the state.

Events in Goa

Goa Deepotsav 2025 Lights Up Porvorim, Saligao, and Mapusa with Cultural Splendour

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully hosted Goa Deepotsav 2025, a two-day celebration that illuminated Porvorim, Saligao, and Mapusa with festive cheer, music, and cultural splendour. The event brought together Goans from all walks of life to celebrate Diwali through art, tradition, and togetherness, reflecting the essence of Goa’s cultural unity.

The first-ever edition of Deepotsav in Mapusa, held at the Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, witnessed vibrant community participation and an impressive turnout. The event featured engaging contests such as the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition, cooking and fugdi contests, and an energetic cultural showcase. The evening highlight, Rhythm of Lights, mesmerized audiences with performances that beautifully portrayed Goa’s cultural diversity.

Among the dignitaries present were Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker & MLA, Mapusa, Shri Joshua De Souza, Chairperson of Mapusa Municipal Council Smt Priya Mishal, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Dhiraj Vagle, Dy. General Manager (Marketing/Hotels), GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar, Asst. Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, councillors, and former councillors.

In his address, Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that the Goa Beyond Beaches initiative, launched in 2022, aims to take tourism to the heart of local communities while empowering women and youth through cultural participation. He announced that Deepotsav will be celebrated annually in Mapusa to showcase Goa’s cultural richness and festive unity.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming response to Deepotsav 2025, noting that the festival embodied Goa’s true spirit of joy, inclusivity, and creativity.

The celebrations began on October 25 at Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim, with workshops and competitions in clay modelling, drawing, cooking, fugdi, and traditional costume contests, concluding with the soulful performance Sur Taal. On October 26, the festivities continued at Saligao Panchayat Area with rangoli, cooking, and Veshbhusha Spardha contests, and culminated with Suron Kee Deepawali, a musical tribute to the festival of lights.

With Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural tourism, local participation, and sustainable community engagement. The festival stood as a radiant symbol of Goa’s heritage, uniting communities under the glow of countless diyas.

Events in Goa

Heritage Festival 2025 starts off with a grand celebration of Goa’s living traditions

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Saligao, 9 May 2025 — The picturesque village of Saligao came alive this evening as the much-awaited Heritage Festival 2025 officially commenced, drawing locals and visitors into a vibrant celebration of Goa’s rich cultural legacy. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the three-day festival is set to run until 11th May 2025 at the Football ground, Saligao, offering an exciting lineup of traditional folk performances, live music, fashion, and more.

The inaugural evening began with soulful Goan music that set the tone for the festivities, followed by a formal inauguration and felicitation ceremony attended by dignitaries, local leaders, and cultural enthusiasts.

The festival was formally inaugurated by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade; Shri Kedar Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency & Vice Chairman, GSIDC; Smt Delilah Lobo, Hon’ble MLA Siolim Constituency; Shri Kedar A. Naik, Director of Tourism, and Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, ZP Members and Panchayat members along with others.

It is with great pride that I announce Saligao as the permanent venue for the Heritage Festival, stated Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte. He further added that “Goa is evolving beyond its beaches—embracing regenerative tourism that respects culture, nurtures the environment, uplifts society, and strengthens the economy. This shift is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future, where tourism thrives alongside the preservation of our natural and cultural assets. The minister further stated that In Saligao, a range of infrastructure developments, with the support of the Chief Minister, will be taken forward under the Department of Tourism.

Shri Kedar Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency & Vice Chairman, GSIDC stated, “This is one of the most scenic constituencies in the state, home to stunning churches, temples, historic forts, and the majestic Arabian Sea. It truly is a land that offers everything. The Saligao Circle serves as a gateway to the vibrant northern coast of Goa. With its rich cultural landscape, this area is the perfect setting for a heritage festival, where tourists can immerse themselves in the authentic Goan experience.”

Smt Delilah Lobo, Hon’ble MLA Siolim Constituency said “I extend my sincere thanks to the Honourable Tourism Minister for bringing this festival Saligao constituency. I invite people from across Goa to come and celebrate our rich heritage, vibrant culture, and traditional cuisine. This truly embodies the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local,’ with various stalls set up by local self-help groups—providing a valuable platform for locals to showcase their talents and products.”

Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade also expressed his thoughts on the occasion. The vote of thanks was presented by Shri Deepak Narvekar, Dy. General Manager, Marketing, GTDC.

The evening’s cultural showcase featured the Kanta Gaude Troupe, who mesmerised the audience with a performance of the Lamp Dance and the graceful Dekhni, one of Goa’s most iconic folk dances. The highlight of the evening was a captivating fashion show curated by Verma Dmello, blending tradition with contemporary flair. The night concluded with an electrifying live performance by Sidhannath Buyao & Band, leaving the crowd energised and eager for what’s to come.

The festival grounds also hosted local self-help groups (SHGs) and artisans, offering handcrafted products, traditional Goan cuisine, and heritage exhibits — creating an immersive and authentic cultural experience for all attendees.

The Heritage Festival will continue on 10th and 11th May, with performances by Sonia Sirsat & Band, RAAGA – The Band, RASM Band, and Black Sapphire Band, along with folk dances including Goff, Veerbhadra, Jagor, and Corridinho.

The Department of Tourism welcomes everyone to be part of this unique celebration that honours Goa’s intangible cultural heritage while supporting local talent and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Goan Festivals

Goa Heritage Festival 2025: A Celebration of Rich Cultural Legacy

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The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host the highly anticipated Goa Heritage Festival in the picturesque village of Saligao from May 9th to 11th, 2025. This three-day extravaganza promises to be a spectacular showcase of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a vibrant blend of traditional music, folk dances, fashion, and live performances.


The festival will commence on Friday, May 9th, with an evening of traditional Goan music, followed by an inauguration and felicitation ceremony. The Kanta Gaude Troupe will mesmerize the audience with their performances of the Lamp Dance and Dekhni, a traditional Goan folk dance. A fashion show by Verma Dmello will highlight the unique styles and designs inspired by Goan culture, culminating in a live musical performance by Sidhannath Buyao & Band.


On Saturday, May 10th, the celebration will continue with Goan music and diverse folk performances by the Kanta Gaude Troupe, including the Goff and Veerbhadra dance forms. The evening will witness a lively performance by RAGA – The Band, followed by felicitation and a soulful set by renowned Goan singer Sonia Sirsat & Band.


The final day, Sunday, May 11th, will feature the Kanta Gaude Troupe showcasing the Jagor and Corridinho, a Portuguese-influenced folk dance. The night will conclude with energetic performances by RASM Band and Black Sapphire Band, leaving the audience with unforgettable memories.


The Goa Heritage Festival is a significant step towards preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage. By providing a platform for local self-help groups and showcasing Goan culture, the festival aims to create deeper awareness of Goa’s cultural identity and support regenerative tourism that uplifts the local community and boosts the economy.


The Department of Tourism invites everyone to be part of this immersive cultural journey in Saligao. Join us for an unforgettable experience of Goan music, dance, fashion, and more!

Key Highlights:

  • Dates: May 9th to 11th, 2025
  • Venue: Saligao
  • Performances: Traditional Goan music, folk dances, fashion show, live music
  • Participating artists: Kanta Gaude Troupe, Sidhannath Buyao & Band, RAGA – The Band, Sonia Sirsat & Band, RASM Band, Black Sapphire Band
  • Objective: Preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage

Come and experience the vibrant culture of Goa at the Goa Heritage Festival 2025!