Tag: Ekvottachem Fest

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Leicester Hosts First-Ever Inclusive Ekvottachem Fest Celebrating Goan Culture, Unity & Community

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

On Saturday, 23rd August 2025, Leicester will become the stage for a historic cultural milestone — the first-ever Ekvottachem Fest, an inclusive celebration of Goan culture, heritage, and togetherness. This unique grassroots festival will be held at St John Bosco Hall from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and best of all, it’s free and open to all.

✨ Curated by Festakar Marius Fernandes

With 101 festivals already under his belt, community-builder Marius Fernandes (affectionately called “Festakar”) brings his festival-making magic to Leicester for the very first time. His mission is simple but powerful: use festivals as tools for inclusion, joy, and connection.

“This is not just a festival,” says Marius. “It’s a gathering of hearts — no barriers, no tickets, no exclusion.”

🎭 What’s Happening at Ekvottachem Fest?

  • Kottieacho Nach: A traditional Goan coconut dance choreographed by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas
  • Ghumtacho Avaz: A musical journey with the ancient Goan percussion instrument, the ghumot
  • Karyshala: Interactive workshops and creative spaces for all ages
  • Festakarachi Pasoi: An exhibit tracing Marius’s 100+ festivals
  • Balcaoacho Gozalli: Balcony-style chats reflecting on memory, identity, and belonging
  • Goenchem Jevonn: A delicious Goan food experience
  • Goan-Inspired Fashion Show: Celebrating traditional and modern Goan designs

🎶 Leicester Sunshine Band – Debut Performance

A highlight of the evening will be the launch of the Leicester Sunshine Band – a multicultural music ensemble formed specially for the festival. Their music will symbolize harmony, creativity, and community.

🕊️ Why It Matters

The Ekvottachem Fest is not just about culture — it’s about inclusion, heritage, identity, and joy. In a world where people often feel divided, this festival invites everyone — Goan or not — to come together, share stories, and dance in celebration of diversity.

📌 Event Details

📍 Venue: St John Bosco Hall, Leicester
📅 Date: Saturday, 23rd August 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🎟️ Entry: Absolutely FREE | All are warmly welcome – the Festakar way!

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Goan Festivals

Ekvottachem Fest: A Vibrant Celebration of Unity, Inclusivity, and Heritage

allycaralgoa

The sun-kissed village of Corlim was abuzz with excitement on Republic Day as the Ekvottachem Fest brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate unity, inclusivity, and Goa’s rich cultural heritage. This spectacular event, curated by festival director Festaçar Marius Fernandes and hosted by Mariano and Perpetua Ferrao, was a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving our cultural traditions.

The Ekvottachem Fest was a shining example of inclusivity, with individuals with disabilities actively participating in the celebrations. The festival’s zero-waste philosophy was also a highlight, showcasing eco-friendly practices and traditional ways of living. As the guests arrived, they were greeted with a warm welcome and a sense of belonging, setting the tone for a day filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit.

The festival was a vibrant celebration of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, with a range of activities and performances that showcased the state’s unique traditions and customs. The Balçaoacheo Gozalli platform brought together notable personalities who shared their knowledge and experiences, while the traditional lifestyle demonstrations took the guests on a journey back in time. The unique dance performances, including the Kottieacho Nach, conceptualized by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, were a highlight of the festival, showcasing the beauty and elegance of Goan dance forms.

The Festacarachi Pasoi, a heritage walk led by Dean Suresh Kunkalikar, was a unique and immersive experience that connected the participants with Corlim’s indigenous trees, medicinal plants, and historic landmarks. This initiative highlighted the importance of preserving local biodiversity and the need to protect our natural heritage for future generations.

As Festaçar Marius Fernandes approached his 100th community festival, he was honored with a commemorative 2025 Festaçar Calendar. The calendar featured vibrant photos and documentation of his 12 festivals, capturing the essence of Goa’s cultural vibrancy and the spirit of community that defines our state.

A Lasting Impression

The Ekvottachem Fest was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. As the guests departed, they carried with them memories of a day filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit. The festival was a testament to the power of unity and inclusivity, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Goan culture. As we look to the future, the Ekvottachem Fest will remain a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and promoting community spirit.