Tag: Goa Culture

Travel

Goa Tourism Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Grand Stakeholders’ Meet and Felicitations

Tanisha Cardozo

On September 27, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, marked the culmination of month-long World Tourism Day celebrations with the largest-ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event brought together key leaders from the government, tourism industry, academia, influencers, and community-based tourism networks for a day of reflection, recognition, and renewed vision.

The Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, delivered a powerful address underlining the essential ecosystem that powers Goa’s tourism — from entrepreneurs and hoteliers to drivers, lifeguards, fishermen, and culinary professionals. Highlighting this year’s theme, he spoke about tourism not just as a business, but as a cultural expression and a shared identity that weaves together stories of the past and aspirations for the future. Emphasizing that Goa is more than just a beach destination, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Goa a year-round, sustainable, and inclusive destination through initiatives like Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum under the Swadesh Darshan program.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, further emphasized that the recognitions awarded on this day were not merely about individual accomplishments but were a celebration of the collective energy that drives Goa’s tourism forward. From students and professionals to influencers and tourism clubs, each individual recognized reflects Goa’s future as a regenerative tourism hub.

The prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to two meritorious students from the Institute of Hotel Management — Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas — in the presence of Smt. Deena Ramos, honoring the late visionary’s legacy. Felicitations were also extended to Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their invaluable contributions to Goa Tourism. Noted influencers Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha were recognized for their unique role in amplifying Goa’s tourism narrative. Additional appreciation was given to Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their outstanding support.

Youth Tourism Clubs played a pivotal role in the celebrations, and their achievements were recognized through awards to Shri Shail Sawkar of Sridora Caculo College, Smt. Lisa Dias of IHM-Goa, and Dr. Kiran Gaude of P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will officially conclude with a Grand Finale one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), featuring films that celebrate Goa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. These efforts, led by the Department of Tourism, serve to amplify Goa’s broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” where tourism becomes a tool for storytelling, regeneration, and inclusive growth.

As stakeholders converged across disciplines and interests, the spirit of collaboration and gratitude defined the day — reinforcing Goa’s role as a global tourism leader embracing innovation, sustainability, and culture.

Travel

Goa Tourism Highlights Regenerative Tourism Through Rural & Heritage Experiences on World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, 26th September 2025 – As part of the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, curated a vibrant set of immersive experiences focused on community, culture, and sustainability.

A highlight of the celebrations was the rural tourism experience at Mulgao Village. Visitors were guided through a traditional coconut farm where they learned about the production of Virgin Coconut Oil and were introduced to local deities and folk legends that form part of the region’s intangible heritage. The serene natural surroundings and storytelling format gave participants an intimate glimpse into Goa’s agrarian traditions and regenerative tourism practices.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed, “Through such rural experiences, we are showcasing Goa’s authentic culture and supporting local communities. Mulgao exemplifies how heritage and livelihood can go hand in hand when tourism is designed responsibly.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “The enthusiastic participation in the Mulgao Village Experience demonstrates the growing appeal of community-based tourism. We will continue to curate such experiences across Goa to highlight our state’s diversity and sustainability practices.”

In parallel, Goa Tourism also organized a special Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Tour for children from Bal Bhavan. This initiative offered young students an exciting, educational journey through key tourist attractions across North Goa. The Hon’ble Minister also took the opportunity to interact with the children and handed out Goa Tourism caps as a souvenir of their experience.

The day’s activities were designed to highlight the broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches” and reflect the Department’s commitment to regenerative tourism that prioritizes cultural preservation, environmental care, and inclusive community participation.

Looking ahead, Goa Tourism has lined up a series of events as part of the extended World Tourism Day celebrations. These include scenic boat cruises, a Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa, and a special film festival at ESG that will showcase Goa’s heritage and conservation narratives.

The 2025 edition of World Tourism Day serves as a reaffirmation of Goa’s evolving role as a model for sustainable and community-led tourism in India.

Books & Literature

Zilu Gaonkar Urges Citizens to Use Govt Schemes and Promote Konkani Language

Tanisha Cardozo

Konkani writer, publisher, and teacher Zilu Gaonkar made a compelling appeal for citizens to adopt Konkani in their day-to-day lives and correspondence while encouraging greater awareness and use of government-supported language schemes. Speaking at a special Seva Pakhwada awareness program held at Government College, Khandola, he emphasized that the Directorate of Official Language provides Konkani language training for government employees and that it is now time for the public to follow suit by promoting and preserving the language through daily use.

The event was organized by the Directorate of Official Language in collaboration with the college and aimed to spread awareness of various language development schemes under the guidance of Goa’s Chief Minister and Minister for Official Language, Dr. Pramod Sawant.

Dr. Seema Salgaonkar, Vice Principal of Government College, welcomed the gathering and noted that preserving our mother tongue is a responsibility that lies with each of us. Meghnath Parab, Director of the Directorate of Official Language, cited the example of Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar, a distinguished figure from Mashel who received his early education in his mother tongue and went on to achieve national prominence.

Deputy Director Anil Sawant provided detailed insights into key schemes run by the department including “Amcho Gãv, Amchi Parampara, Ani Amchem Daiz” (Our Village, Our Traditions, and Our Heritage), the Language Development Scheme, and the Language Awards Scheme.

Senior Translator Seby Fernandes discussed the opportunities available in language-related careers in India and explained the work being done at the Directorate. Junior Translator Sneha Sabnis highlighted efforts in terminology creation and the translation of knowledge-based books into Konkani, making academic and professional content more accessible in the regional language.

Anil Sawant also expressed his thanks to all participants and attendees. The event was anchored by Konkani Professor Kiran Palkar and Hindi Professor Sachi Naik, with a large presence of students, faculty members, and parents — showing that language revival and promotion remain a shared concern across generations.

Travel

From Festacar to the Atlantic: A Goan’s Journey of Pause and Discovery

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

For 25 years, Festacar was my way of giving back to Goa — a festival that brought communities together, celebrating our culture and grassroots traditions. But after a quarter of a century, I felt the need to pause, to celebrate in a different way. That pause led me aboard the MSC Virtuosa, a floating city of lights, music, and discovery.

The ship itself was a marvel. Its glowing LED-domed promenade, buzzing cafés, and vast decks became my sanctuary. For the first time in years, I wasn’t planning, coordinating, or giving. I was simply letting the sea carry me.

Our first stop was La Coruña, Spain. The city greeted me with a rare blend of history and vibrancy. Standing before the Tower of Hercules, the world’s oldest functioning lighthouse, I felt the weight of centuries. Like Goa’s own traditions, this lighthouse has endured — steady, timeless, and unyielding.

In the Old Town, I wandered through cobblestone streets lined with glass-fronted Galician houses. I stopped for pulpo a la gallega — octopus dressed with olive oil and paprika. Simple, rustic, yet profound. Much like Goa’s food, it carried the soul of its land and people.

The journey then took me inland to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination for countless pilgrims walking the Camino. Watching them arrive at the cathedral — weary yet radiant with joy — was deeply moving. Their faces held exhaustion, meaning, and triumph. Inside, the cathedral’s golden altars shimmered with centuries of devotion, filling me with an unexpected peace.

Later, I walked along Riazor Beach. The Atlantic breeze washed over me, and I realized: after years of giving through Festacar, this was my time to receive. The ocean, the culture, the people, and the stories were now filling me with renewal.

As the Virtuosa sailed away that evening, I carried with me more than memories of Galicia. I carried the reminder that travel is not only about discovering new places, but also about rediscovering ourselves.

Events in Goa

Voices in Harmony: An Unforgettable Open Mic Evening at Carpe Diem – Majorda

Tanisha Cardozo

Carpe Diem – Majorda recently became the stage for an evening of heartfelt expression and shared experiences, as an Open Mic Evening unfolded in collaboration with Zeitgeist Goa and TEDx Panaji. Curated and hosted by Diya Padiyar and Loretta Rodrigues, the event revolved around the poignant theme “It’s About Time.”

From the very first act, the atmosphere was electric—filled with anticipation, warmth, and curiosity. The lineup reflected a beautiful mix of voices, perspectives, and forms of expression. Poetry, music, storytelling, and stand-up comedy wove a rich tapestry of emotion and creativity. Some performers were seasoned veterans, while others stood before an audience for the very first time. Each was met with equal respect and encouragement, creating a space where everyone felt heard and valued.

One particularly special moment was a debut stand-up performance that had the room erupting in laughter and applause. The crowd’s response reminded everyone of the unique magic that live, in-person storytelling can offer.

What made the evening even more special was the multilingual nature of the performances. Artists switched between languages with ease—blending cultures, experiences, and identities into their pieces. It wasn’t just the performers who took the spotlight. The audience, too, played an active role—offering questions, sharing their own reflections, and responding with visible emotion and support.

As the night drew to a close, a live band took over the stage, delivering soulful, heartfelt music that wrapped the evening in warmth. People left the venue smiling, inspired, and connected—not just to the performances, but to each other.

The Open Mic at Carpe Diem was more than just an event. It was a celebration of voice, presence, and the power of sharing your truth. Through collaboration and community, it became a moment in time where stories mattered, and every voice found its place.