Tag: #food

Sports

Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan Excels at Yogasana State Championship – Wins 13 Medals for Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

The Yogasana State Championship 2025, organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, witnessed an inspiring display of talent, discipline, and teamwork from Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan, as their athletes secured a total of 13 medals — 4 Gold, 7 Silver, and 2 Bronze — across multiple Yogasana events. The championship was held on 29th October 2025 at the Campal Indoor Stadium, Goa, and brought together some of the state’s finest young yogis.

Under the expert guidance of Mr. Vishal Gawas, Yoga Trainer at Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan, the team achieved remarkable success in various Yogasana categories, including Group Yogasana, Rhythmic Yogasana, and Artistic Yogasana. His scientific approach to training, emphasis on discipline, and motivation helped the students deliver top performances.

Among the standout performers was Arif Khan, who won two Gold medals in Artistic and Individual Yogasana, and Yash Shirodkar, who claimed a Gold, a Silver, and a Bronze medal across different events. Sharada Bandekar secured a Gold medal in Rhythmic Yogasana, while Ganesh Ramadurg earned two Silver and one Bronze medal. Other medal winners included Khushi Pal, Shaunak Barazankar, Tanmay, and Aarya, each contributing to the team’s outstanding tally.

The athletes’ success not only reflects their own hard work but also highlights the strong foundation of yoga education and mentorship provided by Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan. The institution continues to play a vital role in nurturing young talent and promoting Yogasana as a sport that strengthens both body and mind.

President Shri Balkrishna Naik, along with other Executive Committee members of Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan, congratulated the students and expressed immense pride in their achievements. They commended the dedication of the young athletes and the tireless efforts of Mr. Vishal Gawas in uplifting the standard of yoga in Goa.

This stellar performance stands as a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance, guidance, and passion — and marks yet another milestone for Yog Seva Mangal Pratishthan in its mission to promote Yogasana excellence across the state.

Business

Cycle Pure Agarbathi Expands in Goa, Celebrating 77 Years of Fragrance, Heritage, and Purpose

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, India – Cycle Pure Agarbathi, India’s leading agarbathi manufacturer, celebrates 77 years of fragrance, faith, and purpose as it expands its footprint across Goa. With a legacy that has enriched over six billion prayers worldwide, the brand continues to carry forward the spirit of Indian craftsmanship and devotion, blending tradition with innovation to create timeless experiences.

Founded in Mysuru, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has grown from a humble family enterprise into a global brand exporting to more than 75 countries. Its diverse range includes traditional agarbathies and contemporary wellness offerings under the IRIS Home Fragrances brand, now available across Goa through leading retail and quick commerce platforms. This expansion ensures that every home can experience the essence of purity, peace, and prayer with just a click.

Marking a milestone in its journey, Cycle Pure Agarbathi created history at the International Purple Fest Goa 2025 by unveiling and lighting a 125-feet agarbathi—the longest and most inclusive creation in its legacy. The event, graced by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, and other dignitaries, represented a beautiful convergence of tradition, inclusion, and innovation. The ceremonial lighting symbolized unity and celebration of diverse abilities at one of the world’s most inclusive cultural events.

Continuing its deep connection with art and culture, Cycle Pure Agarbathi recently collaborated with Kantara: Chapter 1, a PAN-Indian mythological action drama, as the official prayer partner. To commemorate this partnership, the brand launched the Three in One Parampara Agarbathi, a special edition inspired by Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. Each stick in this collection is a blend of divine fragrance and devotion, offering an experience that embodies spiritual resonance and artistic tradition.

Speaking on the expansion, Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director of Cycle Pure Agarbathi, said, “At Cycle Pure Agarbathi, we believe fragrance is a bridge between tradition and modern living. Our presence across all leading quick commerce platforms ensures that this sacred experience is just a click away—bringing purity, emotion, and heritage to homes instantly.”

Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Amarnath Datta, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, added, “Goa represents a vibrant confluence of culture, spirituality, and modern living—values that deeply resonate with our brand. Through our Cycle and IRIS product lines and creative collaborations like Kantara, we’re not just offering fragrance; we’re creating immersive experiences that connect with hearts and homes.”

Sustainability remains at the heart of Cycle Pure’s philosophy. With zero carbon emissions across its production facilities, plastic-free packaging, and natural ingredient sourcing, the brand has built an environmentally responsible model that blends spirituality with stewardship. The company also continues to empower communities through its Gadchiroli Agarbatti Project (GAP)—a rural livelihood initiative launched in 2014 that has uplifted over 1,200 tribal women, tripling their average household income.

Cycle Pure Agarbathi invites Goans to explore its complete range—from traditional incense to modern wellness products—crafted to transform ordinary moments into soulful rituals. As the brand enters its 78th year, it continues to uphold its vision of purity, empowerment, and sustainability, carrying forward a legacy of fragrance that touches lives, connects cultures, and inspires generations.

Spotlight

Darshil Naik: The Soul Behind “Goan Heaven”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Darshil Naik is a computer engineer by profession, but his true passion lies far from the world of codes and circuits. He’s the heart and soul behind Goan Heaven, a platform that captures Goa’s rich food culture, local cuisines, and hidden culinary gems. What started as a simple love for photography has grown into a journey of storytelling — one that celebrates Goa’s flavors, people, and the emotions that food brings to life.

Darshil’s fascination with Goan food began at home, with the comforting Goan fish thali made by his mom. He fondly recalls fried Chonak, prawns, and Serradura as his all-time favorites. But it wasn’t just the food — it was the experience of family meals and local festivals that shaped his love for Goan cuisine. Every gathering had a special flavor, and every meal told a story of heritage and warmth.

Before Goan Heaven was born, Darshil used to wander through Goan streets capturing moments — from flowers to festivals. Photography was his way of preserving the essence of his surroundings. Gradually, his camera lens turned toward food, and that’s where he found his calling. Every restaurant he visited, every home-cooked dish he tasted, reminded him that Goan food deserved to be celebrated on a larger stage.

The name “Goan Heaven” came to him naturally. For Darshil, every Goan dish — from a plate of spicy prawns to a Sunday curry — feels like heaven on a plate. When he started posting, not everyone understood what he was trying to build. But his family believed in him, and as time passed, the same people who once doubted his efforts became his biggest supporters.

The journey wasn’t always easy. Traveling to shoots was tough in the beginning — Darshil didn’t even have his own bike. But his father’s gift of one changed everything, allowing him to explore Goa freely and document its hidden food stories. His unique storytelling style soon stood out — showing not just food, but the people, places, and emotions behind it.

One of his favorite things about Goan Heaven is the connection with his followers. Many suggest places he should try, and some of those recommendations have become his personal favorites. People often message him saying they tried a dish or visited a restaurant because of his posts — even his professors once asked him for food recommendations, which made him realize how far his work had reached.

Being recognized by the Government of Goa as a social media influencer was a defining moment in Darshil’s journey. It felt like a milestone — proof that his work was helping preserve and promote Goan culture. He dreams of taking Goan Heaven beyond Goa, to a national and international audience, so the world can experience Goa beyond its beaches — through its authentic food stories.

If his journey were a dish, Darshil says it would be “Susegad Curry” — full of calmness, flavor, and love, just like Goa itself. His story is one of passion turned purpose, a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful journeys begin with a camera, a plate of food, and a dream to share your world with others.

Through Goan Heaven, Darshil Naik continues to serve more than food — he serves stories, culture, and a taste of Goa that lingers long after the meal is over.

Special Occasion

National Sandwich Day: Celebrating Creativity, Flavor, and the World’s Favorite Meal

Tanisha Cardozo

National Sandwich Day is celebrated every year on November 3 to honor the beloved and versatile food known simply as the sandwich. This special day is an opportunity for food enthusiasts around the world to enjoy, create, and share sandwiches — from classic favorites to inventive gourmet creations.

The sandwich, as we know it today, is named after John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, an 18th-century English nobleman. Legend has it that the Earl, an avid gambler, asked his servant to place meat between two slices of bread so he could eat without leaving the gaming table. The convenience of this simple meal quickly caught on, spreading across England and eventually the globe.

Sandwiches have become a cultural and culinary staple, adaptable to countless tastes and preferences. They are not only a convenient and quick meal option but also a platform for culinary creativity. From the classic ham and cheese, club sandwich, and peanut butter and jelly to international favorites like French baguettes and Vietnamese banh mi, sandwiches reflect the rich diversity of global cuisine.

National Sandwich Day is significant because it celebrates both the practical and creative aspects of food. It encourages sharing meals, experimenting with ingredients, and appreciating a simple dish that has had a major impact on everyday life. Fun facts include that the largest sandwich ever made weighed over 5,440 pounds and that club sandwiches date back to the late 19th century.

Celebrating National Sandwich Day is simple and fun. People can make their favorite sandwiches at home, try new recipes from different cultures, or even share sandwiches with friends, family, or charitable organizations. Social media users often post their creations using hashtags like #NationalSandwichDay and #SandwichLove to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Ultimately, National Sandwich Day reminds us that even the simplest meals can inspire joy, creativity, and connection. Whether you enjoy a classic or a gourmet twist, today is the perfect occasion to celebrate the sandwich — one of the world’s most loved and versatile foods.

Travel

Goa Deepotsav 2025 to Illuminate the State with Festive Splendour and Cultural Spirit

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to usher in the festive season with Goa Deepotsav 2025, a spectacular celebration of Diwali that will illuminate the state with colour, music, and cultural vibrance. The festival will span two days across three lively venues — Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim on October 25, followed by Saligao Panchayat Area, Saligao, and Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, Mapusa on October 26.

The celebrations will commence on October 25 at Porvorim with an exciting line-up of family-friendly competitions and workshops including cooking contests, fugdi competitions, clay modelling, drawing activities for kids, and the much-loved Veshbhusha Spardha (Traditional Costume Contest). The evening will feature a formal function and a soulful musical performance, Sur Taal, graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, and other dignitaries including Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, ZP Smt. Kavita Naik, MLA Shri Kedar Naik, and senior officials from the Department of Tourism and GTDC.

On October 26, the festivities will continue at the Saligao Panchayat Area with competitions such as Veshbhusha Spardha, Rangoli Making, and Cooking Contests, followed by a mesmerizing musical concert, Suron Kee Deepawali. The evening will also see the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, and other distinguished guests.

Later that evening, the celebrations will move to Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground for the grand finale featuring creative contests like the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition, alongside cultural showcases and a musical extravaganza, Rhythm of Lights. The event will host prominent leaders including the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Hon’ble Minister for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar, and several MLAs from surrounding constituencies.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that Deepotsav reflects the essence of Goa — a land where culture, creativity, and community come together in celebration. He emphasized the role of such festivals in strengthening Goa’s cultural fabric while promoting community-led tourism that preserves Goa’s living traditions.

Echoing his sentiments, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, stated that this year’s Deepotsav is designed to engage every generation through workshops, performances, and culinary experiences that capture Goa’s inclusive and participative spirit. He added that events like Deepotsav embody the vision of Goa Beyond Beaches, showcasing the state as a destination where culture and creativity shine brightly.

Through Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism continues to advance its vision of connecting people through shared experiences and cultural pride. The festival stands as a symbol of Goa’s commitment to preserving its traditions while embracing innovation and inclusivity. As the state glows under the light of countless diyas and echoes with music and joy, Goa invites residents and visitors alike to join this radiant celebration of togetherness and tradition.