Tag: Goa Festivals

Events in Goa

CM Sawant Urges Goa’s Youth to Follow Sant Muktabai’s Values at Margao’s Dindi Festival

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, addressing devotees during Margao’s Dindi Festival, called upon the young generation of Goa to imbibe and live by the values of Sant Muktabai, known for her teachings of humility, devotion, and selflessness.

Dr. Sawant observed that despite the challenges of today’s digital era, the large turnout of youth at the festival reflected Goa’s deep spiritual roots and its continued reverence for traditional values. He emphasized that devotion to Lord Vittal of Pandharpur is not confined to Maharashtra alone, as Goa too has a vibrant community of followers who express their faith through cultural and devotional celebrations such as the Dindi.

The Chief Minister further assured that his government would extend every possible support required for the smooth organization and promotion of the festival, recognizing it as an integral part of the state’s spiritual and cultural identity.

The Dindi Festival in Margao, celebrated with traditional bhajans, processions, and devotional gatherings, continues to serve as a reminder of the region’s shared heritage and the enduring legacy of saints like Sant Muktabai, who inspired generations to live a life of compassion and devotion.

National

Tribal Minister Invites President Droupadi Murmu to Silver Jubilee Canacona Lokotsav 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

In a noteworthy cultural development, Shri Ramesh Tawadkar, Tribal Minister of Goa, recently called on the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. Accompanied by Shri Rajendra Arlekar, Hon’ble Governor of Kerala, the minister extended a formal invitation to the President to attend the Silver Jubilee Edition of the Canacona Lokotsav.

The 25th Canacona Lokotsav is scheduled to take place from 19th to 21st December 2025 at Adarsh Gram, Amona, in the Canacona taluka of South Goa. Over the years, Canacona Lokotsav has grown into one of Goa’s most prominent platforms to celebrate and showcase traditional Goan arts, crafts, music, folklore, and tribal culture.

The Silver Jubilee edition promises to be a grand celebration, bringing together performers, artisans, and cultural groups from across the state and beyond. The invitation to the President is a symbolic and significant gesture aimed at highlighting the cultural richness of Goa on a national platform. It also reflects the growing recognition of local festivals in preserving and promoting indigenous traditions and community spirit.

If accepted, President Droupadi Murmu’s presence at the Lokotsav would mark a historic moment, as she herself represents a strong connect to tribal heritage and grassroots governance in India. The event is expected to attract dignitaries, tourists, cultural enthusiasts, and citizens in large numbers.

The Tribal Ministry’s outreach reflects Goa’s continued efforts to promote inclusive and culturally rooted tourism while strengthening local identity through events like the Canacona Lokotsav.

Travel

Goa Gears Up for a Memorable Year-End with ‘Feels Like Goa’ Campaign

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Panaji, 10th October 2025: As the festive season draws near, Goa is set to welcome visitors with its new year-end campaign — “Feels Like Goa”, a heartfelt celebration of the state’s timeless charm, cultural richness, spiritual essence, and festive spirit.

Designed by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the campaign aims to evoke nostalgia and rekindle the emotional connection travelers share with Goa — reminding the world that Goa is not merely a destination, but a feeling.

Speaking about the campaign, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“Goa has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers across the world. With ‘Feels Like Goa’, we are bringing back the essence of what makes Goa truly unique — its people, culture, and soul. This campaign is a tribute to timeless memories and an invitation to experience Goa with the same emotion and warmth as always.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“We are committed to regenerative tourism — creating meaningful experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities. This campaign revives travel sentiment and supports local businesses while preserving the essence of Goa.”

The Department’s vision for Goa’s tourism future is rooted in sustainability and inclusivity. Alongside the campaign, Goa has laid the foundation for Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum — key projects that diversify travel experiences beyond beaches and nightlife.

Through “Feels Like Goa”, the government aims to position the state as a multi-dimensional destination — one where every sunset, festival, and smile carries a story.

As 2025 draws to a close, Goa invites the world to come home to its heart — to feel its rhythm, warmth, and joy once again.

Events in Goa

Motoverse 2025 Returns to Goa with Diplo, Hanumankind, and a Genre-Bending Lineup

Tanisha Cardozo

Motoverse 2025, India’s definitive celebration of motorcycles, music, and counterculture, is set to roar back into Vagator, Goa from November 21 to 23. What began as Rider Mania has since transformed into one of the country’s most unique and immersive festivals, blending the thrum of Royal Enfields with the pulse of live music, experimental art, and shared journeys.

This year’s edition is the festival’s boldest yet, led by two powerful headliners: Grammy-winning global superstar Diplo and Indian rap phenom Hanumankind. Diplo’s return to India is more than just a show—it’s a personal homecoming. Once a Royal Enfield rider across India, Diplo’s exposure to the country’s music and street energy helped shape his genre-defying sound. His headlining set at the Main Stage is expected to deliver high-octane beats with a uniquely Indian twist.

Matching that energy is the homegrown return of Hanumankind, fresh off a breakout Coachella debut. Known for fusing hard-hitting hip-hop with the visceral sound of Kerala’s chenda drums, his headlining slot cements Motoverse’s mission to spotlight Indian voices on global stages.

The Main Stage lineup continues with crowd favorites including The Yellow Diary, genre-fluid legends Thaikkudam Bridge, rock fusionists Parvaaz, and the timeless Euphoria. A special collaborative set by MIDIval Punditz, Kutle Khan, and Karsh Kale promises a masterclass in live electronic fusion, blending Indian classical, folk, and electronica.

Meanwhile, the Hilltop Stage will offer a more intimate, unplugged vibe with artists like Kavya Trehan, Dot & The Syllables, Raman Negi, and Manipur’s breakout rapper Yelhomie, bringing his underground voice to a national platform.

Motoverse has evolved into much more than a music festival. With immersive bike displays, community rides, build culture, and artistic showcases, it is a celebration of individuality and community. This isn’t just about music or motorcycles—it’s about people who ride together, live freely, and express themselves boldly.

Early bird passes are available now via District by Zomato for ₹2,499. With this edition shaping up to be the most ambitious yet, Motoverse 2025 invites everyone—from die-hard bikers to music lovers—to be part of the ride.

Goan Personalities

Rajesh Faldessai Fulfils Vow, Offers Gold Crown and Necklace to Devi Shree Shantadurga Khubharjuvekarin

Tanisha Cardozo

Rajesh Faldessai, Chairman of the Goa Rehabilitation Board and Cumbarjua MLA, has fulfilled a significant personal and spiritual vow made during last year’s Sangodd Utsav by offering a gold crown and necklace to Devi Shree Shantadurga Khubharjuvekarin at Marcel. This promise was made in 2024 after a potentially tragic incident was narrowly avoided during the annual water float festival, where two canoes carrying floats had capsized. Thankfully, due to the swift actions of participants and onlookers, all individuals involved were safely rescued, and no casualties occurred.

Faldessai had publicly declared that he would offer a token of gratitude to the Goddess for her divine intervention and protection during the incident. A year later, on the same auspicious occasion of Sangodd Utsav, the MLA fulfilled his vow in the presence of his wife Rima, temple committee members, local panchayat members, and several devotees.

Among the dignitaries present were Sarpanch of V.P Cumbarjua Shri Sachin Gaude, Panch Members Shri Nandakumar Shet and Smt. Vinda Joshi, President of the Shantadurga Khubharjuvekarin Devasthan Shri Shivaji Shet, and various other committee members.

Expressing his emotions during the event, Faldessai shared his continued devotion to the Goddess and thanked her for safeguarding the lives of his constituents. He stated, “In view of this incident, I had sought Devi’s intervention to ensure none of the participants are hurt, and I vowed to offer a gold crown and necklace to Devi as a thanksgiving for her protection. I am extremely delighted that Devi’s blessings and protection are upon all the people of Cumbarjua.”

He also extended his gratitude to the state government and the Department of Tourism for their support, including the provision of two new canoes for this year’s Sangodd celebrations. Additional safety measures, including ambulances and emergency services, were also arranged to ensure a secure and joyous festival atmosphere.

The offering marks a moment of spiritual fulfillment and showcases the continued cultural and religious significance of the Sangodd Utsav in Goa, blending faith, tradition, and community resilience.