#faith

St. Francis Xavier Parish, Duler Celebrates a Vibrant Day 1 of Christmas Fiesta


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The Parish of St. Francis Xavier, Duler witnessed a vibrant and faith-filled beginning to its two-day Christmas Fiesta with the successful completion of Day 1 celebrations on January 3 at the St. Anthony School Grounds. Organised to encourage local talent while celebrating faith, relationships and culture, the event drew an enthusiastic response from parishioners and visitors alike.

The festive grounds came alive with food stalls, face painting counters, activity zones and various stalls, creating a warm and welcoming environment for families and children. The atmosphere reflected the true spirit of Christmas, marked by togetherness, joy and community participation.

Adding to the celebrations, parishioners took to the side stage to showcase their talents through soulful singing, expressive poetry recitations and energetic group dance performances. These presentations highlighted the creativity, confidence and cultural richness within the parish and were warmly appreciated by the audience.

From 6.30 pm onwards, the screening of the Konkani movie Mog Asum, by the makers of Nachoiam Kumpasar, added cultural depth to the evening and was well received by the gathering.

Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Joshua D’Souza, Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly and MLA of the Mapusa Constituency, described the event as a lively experience that enables people to connect with one another. He noted that such celebrations play an important role in fostering community bonding.

Day 1 of the Christmas Fiesta was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Joshua D’Souza, Guest of Honour Marwin Gomes, Chief Architect of the Public Works Department, Goa, Rev. Fr. Joaquim Fernandes, SVD, Episcopal Vicar (Religious) of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, and Wilson D’Souza, DySP and SDPO, Mapusa. The parish also expressed its appreciation for the presence of Bro. Edmund Peter Lemos, Chairperson of St. Anthony’s Institute, and Cyril Fernandes, President of the Catholic Association of Goa.

The Parish of St. Francis Xavier, Duler has invited everyone to be part of Day 2 of the Christmas Fiesta on January 4, featuring the tiatr ‘Don Dis Sonvsarantle’ by Ulhas Tari, with festivities continuing from 5 pm onwards. The parish extended heartfelt gratitude to all voluntee

Human Interest

Goa Governor Extends Warm Christmas Greetings, Calls for Peace and Unity


Panaji, December 24, 2025:

The Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, has extended warm Christmas greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the joyous occasion of Christmas.

In his message, the Governor reflected on the profound significance of Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ and the timeless values He bestowed upon humanity — peace, love, sacrifice, and brotherhood. He noted that Christmas serves as a reminder of the importance of togetherness, gratitude, and kindness, as families and friends come together to celebrate the season of joy.

“Christmas is an occasion to reflect with gratitude on the blessings in our lives and to extend kindness generously to others,” the Governor said. He urged citizens to renew their commitment to the message of love and compassion preached by Jesus Christ and to work collectively towards building a Goa rooted in peace, harmony, and unity.

Concluding his message, the Governor expressed hope that the festive season would bring happiness to every home and usher in a New Year filled with peace, progress, and prosperity for all.

Entertainment

Indian Actress Sameera Reddy Celebrates Lord Ganesh Utsav at Sardesai Home in Savoi Verem


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Bollywood actress Sameera Reddy, known for her grounded presence and love for tradition, was seen joyfully celebrating Ganesh Utsav with her husband Akshai Varde at the Sardesai family residence in Savoi Verem. The event, held yesterday, marked the welcoming of Lord Ganesha’s Mangal-Murti into the home with great devotion and festive spirit.

The couple participated wholeheartedly in the rituals, showcasing a beautiful union of faith and festivity. Known for being spiritual and family-oriented, Sameera and Akshai were seen fully immersed in the celebrations, highlighting the enduring beauty of Indian cultural traditions even among today’s public figures.

The home was adorned with floral decorations, devotional music, and the unmistakable energy that comes with the presence of Lord Ganesha. Guests and well-wishers gathered to offer prayers, perform the aarti, and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.

This event underscores the strong cultural connection many celebrities maintain, using their platforms not only to celebrate but also to inspire. As the Mangal-Murti graced the Sardesai home, the celebration became more than just a festival — it became a moment of unity, joy, and spiritual reaffirmation.