Tag: GoaCulture

Events in Goa

“Nabotacho Mollo”: A Biblical Musical Drama Highlighting Environmental and Social Justice in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Fr. Agnel Minor Seminary, Pilar, recently presented a deeply moving Biblical musical drama, “Nabotacho Mollo” (Naboth’s Vineyard), during its annual day celebrations, captivating the audience with its poignant message of environmental and social justice. Conceptualized and scripted by Rev. Fr. Diogo Roger D’Souza SFX, the play transported the timeless story of Naboth into the heart of a Goan village, portraying the intense struggle of a humble farmer defending his ancestral land against greed and corruption. The production was skillfully directed by Mr. Agnel De Borim, while the dances were choreographed by Mr. Joe Dias.

The drama featured an array of original songs composed by Fr. Diogo D’Souza SFX, including “Utsovachem Voros,” “Nabotachem Eksurponn,” “Tanchem Kotta!,” “Nixed! Amchem Vingleponn,” “Sandlo!,” and “Bhorvonso Fottoina,” with music arrangement by Fr. Venito Colaco SFX. Collaborative compositions were contributed by Fr. Savio D’Souza SFX, Fr. Nelson Pereira SFX, Miss Reza Fernandes, and Bro. Vexter Colaco, enriching the production’s musical depth. A talented ensemble of musicians, featuring Pratamesh Chari on drums, Fevan Cruz on bass, Jeolinton Costa on keys, Manuel Caiado on saxophone, and a vibrant string and trumpet section, complemented the compelling vocal performances by Russel D’Souza and seminarians Ashwin Vaz, Emmanuel Fernandes, Rosario Mascarenhas, Fabian Colaco, Orban Fernandes, Francio Fernandes, and Fegan Fernandes. Lights and sound were expertly managed by Mr. Vernon Furtado of Studio 56 and Mr. Jules D’Silva.

The drama’s central theme—that land embodies memory, identity, and life—struck a resonant chord with the audience. It highlighted silence as a form of betrayal and courage as a prophetic act, reminding viewers that protecting the land safeguards the very soul of Goa. The production was honored by Rt. Rev. Simiao Purificacao Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, as Chief Guest, and Mr. Rajendra Kerkar, renowned environmentalist and author, as Guest of Honour, both of whom lauded the seminary for its innovative blending of spiritual formation with socio-environmental consciousness.

“Nabotacho Mollo” will be staged during the Christmas Octave at multiple Goan churches: Our Lady of Miracles Church, Sanguem on 27th December 2025 at 7:00 pm; St. Andrew’s Church, Goa Velha on 28th December 2025 at 7:00 pm; St. Anne’s Church, Agonda, Canacona on 29th December 2025 at 8:00 pm; and St. Michael’s Church, Anjuna on 4th January 2026 at 7:00 pm. The producers hope these performances will provide wider audiences the opportunity to experience the drama’s profound message and witness the exceptional artistic talents of the seminarians.

Events in Goa

Entertainment Society of Goa Invites Entries for Statewide Aakash Kandil Competition at IFFI 2025

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The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has announced the much-awaited Aakash Kandil (lantern-making) competition as part of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2025).

This annual celebration of light, art, and community encourages Goans to express their creativity through traditional and modern lantern designs — a visual representation of Goa’s vibrant culture and artistic legacy.

✨ Competition Highlights:

  • Participation: Open to all residents of Goa
  • Entry Limit: A total of 600 entries, with a cap of 50 entries per Taluka, accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • Participation Reward: Every participant will receive ₹500 as a token of appreciation.
  • Submission Deadline: 18th November 2025 (by 5 PM)
  • Submission Venue: ESG Office, between 10 AM – 12:30 PM on 20th November.

For registration, participants can contact Neelai Naik at 7350019149.

🌿 Environmentally Friendly Theme

Participants are encouraged to craft their Aakash Kandils using eco-friendly materials, avoiding thermocol, to promote sustainability and environmental awareness. ESG will provide holders, bulbs, and electrical connections for display.

🏆 Judging & Rewards

A distinguished panel of judges will select three winners from each Taluka, who will receive the following prizes:

  • 🥇 First Prize: ₹5000
  • 🥈 Second Prize: ₹3000
  • 🥉 Third Prize: ₹2000

All decisions by the judges will be final and binding.

💫 A Celebration of Creativity and Culture

The competition aims to foster artistic talent and community pride, illuminating the streets of Goa with handcrafted brilliance during IFFI 2025. Beyond the festive glow, the initiative stands as a tribute to Goan craftsmanship, cultural unity, and sustainable creativity.

As IFFI 2025 approaches, ESG invites everyone across the state to participate, create, and celebrate — turning Goa into a vibrant canvas of light and imagination.

📍 For more details, visit allycaral.com
#IFFI2025 #IFFIGoa #ESG #AakashKandil #GoaCulture #FestivalOfLights #ConnectingGlobal #Allycaral

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases ‘Sunshine and More’ at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made an impressive and impactful presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025, one of the world’s premier international travel and tourism exhibitions, held at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow. With its vibrant and evolving theme, “Sunshine and More in Goa,” the state positioned itself as a year-round destination that offers far more than its celebrated coastline. This strategic showcase was aimed at enhancing Goa’s identity as a hub for sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, wellness retreats, and adventure activities.

The Goa delegation was led by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, along with Shri Prasad Kavlekar, Senior Manager, Marketing at the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Their presence and engagement drew significant attention from international travel professionals, media, trade representatives, and potential partners. On the opening day, Shri Kedar Naik met with Shri Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Moscow, deepening Goa’s collaborative ties and reinforcing its focus on global outreach and partnerships.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa’s presence at OTDYKH is about more than promotion — it’s about transformation. “Goa is moving beyond being just a beach destination. Through ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we are showcasing the state’s evolving identity as a destination rooted in culture, wellness, adventure, and sustainability. Our participation here is about building deeper collaborations and ensuring that Goa remains a preferred choice for quality international travellers,” he stated.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the enthusiastic response on Day 1 validated Goa’s strong recall among global tourists. The Pavilion highlighted regenerative tourism, responsible travel, and authentic experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. Through a mix of multimedia installations, cultural storytelling, and trade dialogues, Goa showcased its renewed focus on preserving ecosystems, promoting mindful tourism, and empowering rural and coastal communities.

Visitors were offered an immersive experience of Goa’s varied offerings — from serene beachside retreats and luxury hospitality to hinterland adventures, wellness therapies, heritage walks, and culinary trails. The state’s commitment to responsible tourism was at the heart of the pavilion’s message.

As the OTDYKH Leisure 2025 exhibition continues until September 12, the Goa Tourism Pavilion is expected to host further B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking events, reinforcing the message that Goa is not just a holiday destination, but a state of mind — one that offers sunshine, soul, and so much more.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College Inaugurates 63rd Academic Year with Ceremony of Hope, Wisdom & Cultural Brilliance

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Mapusa, Goa | July 12, 2025 – St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, Goa, formally commenced its 63rd academic year 2025–26 with an Inaugural Ceremony anchored in faith, reflection, and celebration. Held at the college Ark, the programme was themed “With Hope and Wisdom, We Journey to Excellence.”

The ceremony began with a Eucharistic Celebration at 9:30 a.m., led by His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. Also present were Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema (Administrator), Fr. Joism D’Souza, Acting Principal Ms. Ursula Barretto, and Vice-Principal Prof. Filipe Rodrigues e Melo, who joined the Cardinal in lighting the ceremonial lamp.

In his welcome address, Fr. Salema echoed the words of Pope Francis, urging students and faculty to walk the year ahead with resilience, gratitude, and hope. Acting Principal Ms. Barretto outlined the institution’s academic and co-curricular milestones, thanked staff for their dedication, and paid tribute to retiring educators.

A key academic highlight was the Lectio Brevis by Prof. Afonso Botelho, titled “Exploring Goan Behaviour in Everyday Life through the Dramatic Lens of Erving Goffman.” The session provided valuable sociological insights into Goan identity and interaction.

Three major college publications were launched during the event:

  • The Halcyon – edited by Ms. Sunita Mesquita
  • The Xavierwrite (e-edition) – launched by Ms. Freda Tavares
  • Spectrum (digital edition) – introduced by Mr. Zen Lobo

The college honoured its retiring staff members – Ms. Alice D’Cruz, Ms. Anuradha Kakodkar, and Mr. Suresh Parsekar – for their invaluable service spanning decades.

In his keynote, Cardinal Ferrão spoke on the value of gratitude, calling it the foundation for humility, wisdom, and lifelong learning.

The ceremony concluded with a cultural programme featuring:

  • A classical Indian dance performance
  • A compelling spoken word poetry session
  • An a cappella musical performance by students

The vote of thanks was delivered by Ms. Gema Athaide, who acknowledged the efforts of everyone involved in organizing the event.

The 63rd academic year at St. Xavier’s College begins with a renewed commitment to academic excellence, creative expression, and values-based education.

📖 For more stories like this, visit allycaral.com

International

Adv. Amit Palekar Meets Indian High Commission Official in UK, Celebrates Goan Artists at Reading, UK

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In a significant step toward engaging with the Goan diaspora, AAP Goa President Adv. Amit Palekar recently concluded a meaningful visit to the United Kingdom.

During the visit, he met Mr. Clayton Barreto, official at the Indian High Commission in the UK, who has Goan roots.

Adding to this engagement, Adv. Palekar was honoured to be invited to Reading, UK, for a celebration of Goan artists. The event brought together thousands of Goans whose hearts, despite living miles away, remain deeply connected to Goa.

He emphasized that such cultural gatherings play a vital role in keeping the Goan identity alive abroad and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring diaspora voices are heard in Goa’s policymaking.