Tag: cultural Goa

Goan Personalities

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates 29th Jagatik Marathi Sammelan Goa 2026 at Kala Academy, Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The 29th Jagatik Marathi Sammelan Goa 2026 was formally inaugurated at Kala Academy, Panaji, by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, marking the beginning of a three-day celebration of Marathi language, literature, and cultural thought.

Organised by the World Marathi Academy, Mumbai, in collaboration with various Goan cultural and literary institutions, this prestigious global literary gathering is being held on the theme “Shodh Marathi Manacha – 26 Goa”, reflecting a deeper exploration of Marathi identity, intellect, and cultural consciousness.

The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of several distinguished personalities, including Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Anil Kakodkar, renowned Indian actor and filmmaker Shri Mahesh Manjrekar, acclaimed filmmaker and Chairperson Shri Nagraj Manjule, and Kala Academy Chairperson Shri Babu Kavlekar, among other eminent guests from the fields of literature, cinema, and public life.

The Jagatik Marathi Sammelan serves as a vital platform for dialogue, artistic exchange, and intellectual engagement among Marathi scholars, writers, artists, and cultural practitioners from across India and the world. With a series of discussions, performances, and literary sessions planned over three days, the Goa edition reinforces the state’s role as a vibrant host for national and international cultural conversations.

Events in Goa

Nirbhay Bhav Academy Wins Goa’s Biggest Garbha Dandiya Competition, Heads to Nationals

Tanisha Cardozo

In a spectacular celebration of Goan talent and cultural vibrance, Nirbhay Bhav Academy of Performing Arts, Porvorim has emerged as the winner of Goa’s biggest Garbha Dandiya competition, held at Bazarpeth, Pedne. Organised by the Sarvajanik Durga Utsav Samiti and proudly sponsored by Hon’ble MLA Shri Pravin Arlekar of Pernem Constituency, the event brought together some of the most energetic and colourful dance troupes from across the state.

The victorious team took home a cash prize of ₹1 lakh and a prestigious trophy, recognizing their exceptional performance and dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage through dance. The prize was presented in a grand ceremony by Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavde, Member of Rajya Sabha, along with Shri Pravin Arlekar, who has been instrumental in supporting such cultural platforms that bring communities together and showcase Goan talent on a grand scale.

This win is more than just a title. Nirbhay Bhav Academy will now carry the honour of representing Goa at the National Level Dance Championship to be held on October 4th and 5th in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Competing against teams from across the country, they will bring their rhythm, passion, and Goan pride to the national stage.

The academy’s journey from Porvorim to Pedne and now to Gwalior is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives, artistic discipline, and cultural commitment. Their victory not only inspires other performers but also strengthens the visibility of Goan performing arts at the national level.

As they prepare to compete at the upcoming national event, the people of Goa rally behind them with immense pride and encouragement, celebrating a team that has successfully blended tradition, energy, and excellence into a winning performance.

Films

Goa to Spotlight Its Soul Through Cinema at Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival

Tanisha Cardozo

Cinema is about storytelling, and on September 28, 2025, Goa will tell its story through 13 compelling films and documentaries at the Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival. Organized by non-profit Heritage First Goa (HFG) in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and Goa Tourism, the one-day festival will be hosted at the ESG auditorium in Panaji as part of the state’s extended World Tourism Day celebrations.

The festival brings together a curated selection of films created by Goan filmmakers, each reflecting the intricate connections between Goa’s cultural heritage, its natural environment, and the sense of belonging rooted in its land. Titles like Bread & Belonging, Islands on the Island, The Birdman of Chorao, Kharvan, I Am Nothing, and Caazu promise to engage audiences in meaningful dialogue through cinematic expression. These narratives will be brought to life not only through the screen but also via panel discussions and live interactions with the filmmakers themselves.

According to Heta Pandit, Director of Heritage First Goa, the festival is a way to deepen the understanding of Goa beyond its party and beach image. “Goa gets lakhs of tourists every year. We want to highlight that Goa is more than just a commodity — it is fragile, layered, and deserving of respect,” she said. Filmmaker Gasper De Souza believes the festival will give younger voices an important platform, while Sonia Filinto, director of Bread & Belonging, emphasizes the need for conversations that bring together people who care about Goa’s future.

The Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival offers a unique blend of storytelling, reflection, and community engagement. Tickets are priced affordably at ₹250 for general admission and ₹150 for students, with a flexible ‘pay as you like’ option to encourage wider participation and support for HFG’s future initiatives.

As part of World Tourism Day, this film festival is not just an event—it is a call to view Goa with fresh eyes and to preserve what makes it truly Goan.

Books & Literature

Hema Sardessai Inaugurates “Monsoon Expression” – A Cultural Extravaganza in Panaji

allycaralgoa

The soulful spirit of Goa was on full display as the celebrated singer Smt. Hema Sardessai inaugurated the Monsoon Expression program at Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji. This vibrant cultural initiative, organized by the Directorate of Art and Culture, aims to celebrate the essence of Goa’s artistic traditions during the monsoon season.

The program brings together diverse artistic expressions including music, theatre, dance, folk art, literature, and visual arts, culminating in a striking painting exhibition by local talents.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries including Shri Sagun Velip, Director of Art and Culture, and Shri Milind Mate, Deputy Director, among others.

Addressing the gathering, Hema Sardessai applauded the Department for its sustained efforts in nurturing Goan heritage and creating platforms for emerging artists. The event was met with enthusiastic participation and appreciation from attendees across the cultural spectrum.

Monsoon Expression is not just a program—it is a movement to reinforce Goa’s vibrant artistic roots and create meaningful engagement between artists and audiences.

With its inspiring blend of performances and exhibitions, the event is set to run through the monsoon, turning rainy days into moments of artistic celebration.

Films

“I Am Nothing”: Museum of Goa Hosts Documentary Screening on Vamona Navelkar with Director Talk

allycaralgoa

Panaji, July 2025 – The Museum of Goa (MOG), known for celebrating local art and culture, is hosting an exclusive screening of I Am Nothing, a soul-stirring documentary that explores the life, work, and philosophy of one of Goa’s most enigmatic artists — Vamona Navelkar.

Directed by Goa-based filmmaker and writer Ronak Kamat, the documentary offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual and artistic journey of a man who quietly transcended borders and boundaries. The event will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 11:30 AM, at the Museum of Goa in Pilerne Industrial Estate, Bardez, followed by an engaging conversation with the director.

Vamona Navelkar, who passed away in 2021, left behind a body of work that is both intensely personal and universally resonant. From his early years in Mozambique, to his academic pursuits in Portugal, and finally his return to Goa, Navelkar’s life was marked by cultural shifts, personal loss, and an unwavering devotion to art.

He famously signed many of his works with the name ‘Ganesh’, in tribute to his deceased brother — a symbolic act that reflected both his humility and his philosophical outlook. His quiet mantra, “I am nothing,” was not defeatist, but deeply spiritual — a rejection of ego and a celebration of anonymity.

“This film is not just about Vamona’s art, but about a way of thinking and being,” said director Ronak Kamat. “His story is about identity, loss, and finding purpose in humility.”

The screening offers audiences an immersive experience of his journey, as told through visuals, interviews, and archival material. It’s a must-attend event for art lovers, students, filmmakers, and anyone intrigued by Goa’s rich cultural tapestry.

Event Details:

  • Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025
  • Time: 11:30 AM onwards
  • Venue: Museum of Goa, Pilerne Industrial Estate, Bardez
  • Entry: Free (Limited Seating. RSVP via WhatsApp: 7722089666)

This event is part of MOG’s ongoing commitment to creating platforms that connect the public with Goa’s artistic legacies and untold stories. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about the lives behind great works, I Am Nothing promises a morning of deep reflection and inspiration.

For more details, follow @MuseumOfGoa or contact via WhatsApp.