Valpoi, Goa – On May 1st, 2025, the Laudato Si Organic Farm in Valpoi, Sattari, will host the Muddasachem Fest—a vibrant, community-led celebration of International Workers Day. The event runs from 11 AM to 3 PM and is free to all.
The festival is hosted by Fr. Santan Gama, parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes, and Fr. Felix Lobo, manager of Diocesan properties, along with the spirited participation of Valpoi villagers.
Rooted in Goa’s rich cultural heritage, the fest will feature traditional performances such as Festacarachi Pasoi, Bolcaoancho Gozalli, Kottieacho Nach, and Ghumtacho Avaz, along with interactive Karyashalas (workshops), Goenche Jevonn (local cuisine), and more.
Curated by Festacar Marius Fernandes, this marks his 101st fest under his unique concept of Individual Social Responsibility (ISR)—a personal commitment to building inclusive, sustainable communities through culture. His ISR model empowers locals, revives heritage, and brings people together without commercial sponsorship or competition. Muddasachem Fest invites everyone to take part in a meaningful celebration that honors workers and keeps the spirit of Goa’s villages alive.
*Panaji, 22 March 2025* : The streets of Panaji came alive with colour, music, and traditional Goan culture as the much-awaited Shigmotsav Parade took place in the capital city on March 22. The annual festival, known for its vibrant floats, lively folk performances, and captivating traditional music, delivered an evening of grand celebrations that reflected Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
The Shigmotsav Parade in Panaji organised by the Panaji Shigmotsav Committee in association with the Department of Tourism, showcased mesmerizing performances by various troupes, including Romtamel, traditional Goan folk dances such as Ghodemodni, Kunbi dance, Tonya Mel, Goff, Morulo, Dhangar Dance along with the fancy-dress performances. The parade also featured intricately designed floats that depicted captivating scenes from mythology.
The event saw the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant; Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; Mayor, Corporation of City of Panaji, Shri Rohit Monserrate; President, BJP Goa Pradesh, Shri. Damu Naik; Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, and office bearers of Panaji Shigmotsav Committee graced the occasion.
Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed his excitement about the festivities, stating, “These vibrant festivities draw participants from various places who share our unique cultural expressions, adding to the event’s lively atmosphere. While offering visitors an immersive experience of Goa’s heritage, such festivals also create valuable opportunities for locals to earn by setting up stalls, selling traditional crafts, and offering authentic cuisine. This blend of cultural celebration and economic opportunity not only helps preserve traditions for future generations but also attracts both domestic and international tourists eager to explore Goa’s cultural richness. By playing a vital role in Regenerative Tourism and highlighting Goa beyond beaches, festivals contribute significantly to the state’s tourism landscape.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, remarked, “Shigmotsav is one of Goa’s most cherished festivals, showcasing our rich traditions and vibrant community spirit. The energy, creativity, and dedication shown by our local artists and performers have once again made this celebration memorable”
Crowds lined the streets of Panaji to witness a dazzling display of brightly decorated floats, lively drumbeats, and energetic dance performances as the Shigmotsav Parade unfolded. The parade delighted spectators with its colourful displays, creative themes, and enthusiastic participants who kept the festive spirit alive throughout the evening.
The serene village of St. Mathias on Divar Island transformed into a lively hub of culture, nostalgia, and sustainability as it hosted the vibrant Potekar Fest 2025. This unique festival, curated by Festaçar Marius Fernandes, brought together people from across Goa to celebrate tradition, inclusivity, and environmental consciousness in an atmosphere of harmony and togetherness.
The festival commenced with the much-anticipated Festaçar passoi, a symbolic procession from the Ghumot Museum to the balcão, where the 93-year-old Anna Regina, the oldest Potekarn, warmly inaugurated the celebration. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by distinguished guests, including Prakash Kamat, Rena Menezes, Maria Gorretti Fernandes, Dominic D’Souza, Jacqueline Alvares, and Mariano Ferrao. Their presence set the stage for a day filled with cultural exchange, nostalgia, and shared learning.
Potekar Fest drew enthusiastic participation from various Goan regions, including Corlim, Panjim, Mapusa, Divar, Sarzora, and Nuvem, reinforcing its spirit of inclusivity. The festival ensured that individuals of all backgrounds and abilities could actively participate, making it a true community event.
A defining feature of Potekar Fest 2025 was its unwavering commitment to zero-waste practices. By incorporating eco-friendly traditions and sustainable living principles, the festival exemplified how cultural celebrations can be both meaningful and environmentally responsible.
The festival featured several engaging cultural elements, one of the most cherished being the Balçaoacheo Gozalli—a platform where Miguel Braganza, Prakash Kamat, and Mariano Ferrao shared their insights and experiences with Festaçar Marius Fernandes. Their discussions provided a rich tapestry of Divar’s past, offering attendees an immersive experience of the region’s heritage. They spoke how those innocent days has changed and we all have to be more aware of our surroundings due to the advent of social media and vloggers and how they can distort our traditions due to lack of knowledge.
Adding to the nostalgic atmosphere, Festaçar reminisced about his childhood days of crafting paper masks, evoking memories of Goa’s age-old traditions and artistic expressions.
A major crowd-puller was the mesmerizing Kottieacho Nach (Coconut Shell Dance), conceptualized by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas. The rhythmic performance captivated onlookers, highlighting Goa’s dynamic folk traditions. Live musical performances further enhanced the festivities, with renowned singers Jacqueline Alvares and Leena Fernandes leading the audience through timeless Konkani melodies.
The festival was a sensory delight, offering a blend of Goan culinary and artisanal traditions. A special workshop on Doce de Grão, conducted by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas and Dorothy De Souza, provided attendees with a hands-on experience of this beloved Goan delicacy, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.
Reflecting on the success of Potekar Fest 2025, Festaçar Marius Fernandes expressed his gratitude, stating:
We are deeply grateful to our visitors, performers, and everyone who made this event possible. This marks our 98th community festival, and we look forward to continuing this journey of celebrating unity.”
More than just a festival, Potekar Fest 2025 stood as a testament to Goa’s cultural richness, inclusivity, and commitment to sustainability. It left a profound impact on all who attended, reinforcing the importance of community spirit and preserving heritage.
As the sun set on Divar Island, it was clear that this celebration was not just an event, but a heartfelt tribute to Goa’s identity—one that would be remembered for years to come.
The Amrit Udyan of Rashtrapati Bhavan, formerly known as the Mughal Gardens, is set to welcome visitors from February 2 to March 30. This stunning garden, a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, will be open to the public for nearly two months, offering a unique opportunity to experience its beauty and tranquility.
A Cultural Extravaganza: VividhtaKaAmritMahotsav
As part of the Amrit Udyan festivities, Rashtrapati Bhavan will also host a 4-day cultural extravaganza called #VividhtaKaAmritMahotsav, starting from March 6. This vibrant celebration will showcase the unique traditions and rich cultural heritage of Southern India, featuring a diverse range of performances, exhibitions, and activities.
Experience the Beauty of Amrit Udyan
The Amrit Udyan is a masterpiece of garden design, with its meticulously manicured lawns, stunning floral arrangements, and serene water features. Visitors can explore the garden’s various sections, including the Herbal Garden, the Bonsai Park, and the Musical Garden. The garden’s beauty is further enhanced by its intricate stone carvings, ornate fountains, and picturesque walking trails.
Plan Your Visit
To plan your visit to the Amrit Udyan, you can book your slots online through the Rashtrapati Bhavan website. Visitors can choose from various time slots, and tickets will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
Key Details
Amrit Udyan opening dates: February 2 to March 30
VividhtaKaAmritMahotsav dates: March 6 to March 9
Online booking: Available through the Rashtrapati Bhavan website
Time slots: Various time slots available
Tickets: Issued on a first-come, first-served basis
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the beauty and cultural richness of the Amrit Udyan. Book your tickets now and get ready to be mesmerized by this stunning garden!
Margao, 31st December 2024 – The stage is set for the much-anticipated Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2025, which will take place from January 3rd to January 5th, 2025, at Costa/Dukle Properties, next to Costa Factory, Margao. Organized by the Department of Tourism, this three-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience, blending Goa’s rich culinary heritage with vibrant cultural performances and artistic displays.
The festival will open on January 3rd with the inauguration in the esteemed presence of Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, along with other prominent dignitaries: Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C, Printing & Stationary, Shri Digambar Kamat, MLA – Margao Constituency, Shri Ganesh Gaonkar, MLA – Sanvordem & Chairman GTDC, Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Goa, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Goa and Shri Damodar Shirodkar, Chairperson, Margao Municipal Council.
The opening evening will include a lamp-lighting ceremony, a felicitation honoring prominent personalities, and a traditional welcome dance. Attendees can look forward to enthralling performances by Divya Naik, the band Lynx, and a captivating dance and music showcase by Kanta Gaude and Pure Magic, setting the stage for a vibrant start to the festival.
Commenting on the festival, the Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said, “The Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2025 is a celebration of Goa’s rich heritage and also an opportunity to present our state as a global destination for food, art, and cultural experiences. We are committed to showcasing the best of Goa to visitors from around the world.”
Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism, added, “This festival is a perfect representation of Goa’s diverse culture and hospitality. It is our endeavor to create memorable experiences for every visitor and continue promoting Goa as a vibrant and sustainable tourism destination.”
On January 4th, the second day will spotlight budding talent and tourism-related activities, celebrating Goa’s artistic diversity. Visitors can enjoy a performance by Konkani duet singers and a dance act by the Goan Image Dance Troop. The evening will feature a dynamic act by Samruddh and Vibha with their troupe, a comedy session by Saidutt Kamat, and a high-energy performance by the band Lace, ensuring an entertaining and engaging experience for all.
The grand finale on January 5th will celebrate Goa’s cultural and artistic vibrancy. Highlights will include a dazzling performance by Rajesh and Gautami with their troupe and a captivating dance act by the Goan Image Dance Troop. Music enthusiasts can revel in a soulful session by Nishi Singh and her musicians, followed by a touch of humor with a mimicry performance by Manohar Bhingi. The festival will conclude on a high note with a grand finale performance by the band Purple Rain.
The Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2025 is a celebration of Goa’s spirit, showcasing the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Visitors will have the opportunity to savor the state’s culinary treasures, enjoy a rich cultural experience, and create unforgettable memories.
