Tag: Cultural Preservation

National

26th All India Konkani Sahitya Sammelan Applauds Goa Government; Passes Key Resolutions on Language and Culture

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The 26th All India Konkani Sahitya Sammelan, held in Ernakulam, Kerala, concluded with a series of significant resolutions aimed at strengthening the Konkani language, its literary ecosystem, and cultural institutions. Delegates unanimously commended the Goa government for its unequivocal stand on the Official Language Act, particularly in response to demands seeking changes by proponents of Marathi and those advocating for the introduction of Roman script in Konkani education. The Sammelan appealed to opposition MLAs in Goa not to politicize the issue, emphasizing that the future of students and the state’s secular fabric must be protected.

Among the key resolutions passed was the appeal to extend Goa’s scheme of grants for book publishers to include writers from neighbouring states whose works are published by Goan publishers, thereby broadening the scope and reach of Konkani literature. Another resolution urged the government to establish primary schools in talukas where not a single Konkani-medium school exists, addressing a long-standing gap in early education accessibility in the language. Delegates also called for the creation of a Goa Film Development Corporation, noting the rising number of films from the region winning international recognition and the need for structured support, including the screening of short films in local theatres ahead of regular shows.

The two-day event, hosted by several Konkani organisations in Kerala, featured Chief Guest Justice N. Nagresh, who stressed that spoken Konkani is essential for the survival of the language. Citing UNESCO’s classification of endangered languages as critically, severely, definitely, or vulnerable, he urged attendees to introspect on where Konkani currently stands. Guest of Honour and acclaimed Kannada writer Jayant Kaykini described himself as a Konkani writer creating literature in Kannada and spoke about the power of poetry to make readers restless, encouraging emerging writers to fully immerse themselves in the world of literature. The event also featured addresses by Sammelan President Madhav Borkar and All India Konkani Parishad Working President Chetan Acharya. Titus Noronha compered the function, and Sneha Sabnis delivered the vote of thanks. The Sammelan concluded with renewed commitment toward protecting and promoting Konkani language and culture across regions.

Human Interest

JCI Pilgao Elite Launches First Aarti Sangrah Booklet on Independence Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Pilgao, Goa – Celebrating both national pride and cultural preservation, JCI Pilgao Elite marked a significant milestone on Independence Day 2025 with the launch of its first Aarti Sangrah booklet. This spiritual compilation is a tribute to Goan religious traditions and was released amidst a gathering of esteemed dignitaries and community leaders.

The event was held in Pilgao in the gracious presence of:

  • JC Jayesh Valavalkar, President, JCI Pilgao Elite
  • Asmita Gauns, 1st Lady of JCI Zone 11
  • JC Sharmila Valavalkar, Sarpanch of Pilgao
  • Pravin Parab, Secretary of VP Piligao
  • Sanjay Nanda Falkar, Writer-Director
  • Ashvesh Gimonkar
  • Deepak Prabhu Gaonkar, President of Shantadurga Temple
  • JC Swati Naik Shirodkar, Secretary of JCI Pilgao Elite

A special highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the Aarti Sangrah booklet to Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, recognizing the community’s efforts in preserving spiritual literature and passing traditions to the next generation.

The initiative not only commemorated India’s 78th Independence Day but also highlighted the importance of cultural identity, spiritual continuity, and local leadership.

“The Aarti Sangrah is more than just a book — it’s a celebration of devotion and cultural pride,” said JC Jayesh Valavalkar.

This project marks a promising beginning for JCI Pilgao Elite’s cultural initiatives, reinforcing the organization’s mission to build better communities through service, leadership, and tradition.

Events in Goa

‘Cantaram for the Community’ Revives Goa’s Musical Heritage for Students of 17 Schools

allycaralgoa

Panaji, August 2025: Goa’s rich musical legacy resonated through classrooms-turned-concert-halls as students from 17 schools and colleges experienced ‘Cantaram for the Community,’ a cultural outreach initiative by Communicare Trust to mark its 20th anniversary. The twin events, hosted at Carmel College, Nuvem and St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, introduced a new generation to the timeless magic of Konkani cantaram.

The programme featured captivating live renditions by the musical collective Entre Nós, who performed classics like Molbailou Dou and a Claudia medley. Vinyl record collector Leaxan Freitas offered students a rare look at vintage music formats — from shellac discs to analogue gramophones — sparking awe among those who had only read about such devices in books.

Through music, stories, and interactive quizzes, the event revived the works of legendary Goan composers and singers such as C. Alvares, Frank Fernand, Chris Perry, Ophelia Cabral, and Antonette Mendes. Performances included beloved pieces like Nachom-ia Kumpasar, Sobit Amchem Goem, and Bencdaita Pai, reintroducing students to melodies that once defined Goa’s soundscape.

Dr. Glenis Mendonca of Carmel College highlighted the event’s camaraderie and engagement, noting how students even danced to the tunes. Student Sofia Haokip described the joy of seeing a gramophone and vinyl in action for the first time.

Manager at Communicare Trust, Nalini Elvino de Sousa, explained that the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between generations, showing how music technology evolved while celebrating Goa’s cultural roots. Supported by the Maria Crescencia Menezes Memorial Educational Trust, ‘Cantaram for the Community’ continues the Trust’s mission of preserving and promoting Goan culture for future generations.

EduConnect

‘Cantaram for the Community’: Goan Colleges to Host Vinyl-Powered Musical Heritage Concerts

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji | August 7, 2025:
 In a heartfelt tribute to Goa’s vibrant musical past, Communicare Trust — the Dona Paula-based cultural organisation — is rolling out a special initiative titled ‘Cantaram for the Community’. As part of its 20-year anniversary celebrations, the Trust will host two live campus concerts blending rare archival vinyl recordings and live performances to rekindle student interest in the rich Konkani cantaram tradition.

The first edition will be held on August 8 at Carmel College, Nuvem, and the second on August 12 at St Xavier’s College, Mapusa, with both events kicking off at 10:00 am. Entry is free for students, but seats are limited.

Celebrating Forgotten Voices

The concerts will spotlight the songs and stories of iconic Goan composers and singers such as C. Alvares, Joe Rose, Frank Fernand, Ophelia Cabral, and Antonette Mendes — artists whose work defined an era, but who are now often unknown to the younger generation.

The performance will feature the dynamic ensemble Entre Nós, led by musician Omar de Loiola Pereira, with Nadia Rebelo and Ginelle Fernandes on vocals. Their repertoire includes rare compositions and beloved hits, carefully chosen to transport the audience back to Goa’s musical golden age.

Interspersed with these live performances will be curated vinyl sessions by Leaxan Freitas, a passionate record selector and Art Deco researcher. Leaxan’s segments will introduce students not just to vintage audio formats, but also to the history of how Goans once listened to music — from shellac discs and gramophones to the digital age.

More Than Music

To enrich the experience further, the concerts will also include photographs, lyrics, and biographical snippets, making the sessions both musical and educational.

“Many children today have never seen vinyl, tapes or shellac discs. ‘Cantaram for the Community’ aims to show how music and technology evolved while reconnecting youth with Goa’s cultural roots,” said Nalini Elvino de Sousa, Manager at Communicare Trust.

“Many of the original composers are no longer with us, but we’re in touch with their families, who often share lyrics and stories that we incorporate into the concerts to honour their legacy,” she added.

A Cultural Milestone

The initiative is supported by the Maria Crescencia Menezes Memorial Educational Trust, which has played a key role in enabling Communicare’s mission of preserving Goa’s linguistic and cultural heritage over the past two decades.

For two decades, Communicare Trust has championed language learning, cultural revival, and creative education, and this musical outreach is a natural extension of that legacy.

How to Attend

📌 Dates & Venues

  • August 8 – Carmel College, Nuvem (South Goa students)
  • August 12 – St Xavier’s College, Mapusa (North Goa students)

📨 Schools interested in group attendance may write to: communicaretrust@gmail.com
 🎟️ Entry is free, but seats are limited.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism concludes Successful Participation at GITB 2025 in Jaipur

allycaralgoa

Goa, May 7, 2025 : Goa Tourism concluded its vibrant and impactful participation at the Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) 2025 held from 4th to 6th May in Jaipur, reaffirming its commitment to promoting sustainable and regenerative tourism models that benefit local communities and preserve the cultural and natural heritage of the State.

The Goa delegation, led by Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism), comprised Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism; Shri Gavin Dias, GM (Marketing), GTDC; Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director (South); and several Goan co-exhibitors who actively engaged with industry stakeholders and potential partners at the Goa Tourism Pavilion.

The pavilion offered an immersive experience into Goa’s evolving tourism landscape — highlighting hinterland trails, heritage and spiritual circuits, wellness tourism, adventure experiences, and community-led initiatives. With a focus on quality over quantity, the pavilion invited visitors to explore how tourism in Goa is transforming through the lens of Regenerative Tourism — ensuring long-term value for both visitors and host communities.

Speaking about the participation, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism stated:“Goa’s participation at GITB 2025 reinforces our commitment to a tourism model that is responsible, inclusive, and regenerative. We are showcasing experiences that go beyond the conventional — driven by local communities, rooted in our cultural identity, and mindful of our ecological responsibilities. Events like GITB help us connect with partners who share this vision and are keen to be part of Goa’s evolving story.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added: “GITB 2025 provided a valuable platform to showcase Goa’s evolving tourism offerings and engage with stakeholders who share our vision of responsible and community-driven tourism. We thank all our co-exhibitors and partners for their active participation and look forward to building on the momentum generated at this event.”

Goa Tourism was also recognised as the 1st runner-up for Best Stall in the Public Sector category at GITB 2025, acknowledging the pavilion’s engaging showcase and strong presence at the event.

A notable highlight of the event was the visit of dignitaries including Smt. Pravati Parida, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha; Shri Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group. They interacted with the Goa delegation and appreciated the State’s forward-looking initiatives in promoting tourism that is both regenerative and rooted in local culture.

Throughout the event, the Goa Tourism team held several productive B2B meetings, explored collaborations with travel partners, and shared insights into Goa’s tourism strategy that prioritizes community participation, cultural preservation, and ecological balance.

As GITB 2025 draws to a close, Goa Tourism thanks all visitors, stakeholders, and co-exhibitors for their enthusiastic participation and looks forward to strengthening tourism partnerships forged during the event.