Tag: Goan Culture

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GTDC to Host World-Famous Dance Drama ‘RAM’ on 29th & 30th November in Goa

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In a landmark cultural initiative, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has announced that Goa will host the world-famous dance drama RAM, one of India’s most celebrated and iconic stage productions. The performances will be held on 29th November at Ravindra Bhavan, Baina Vasco, and on 30th November 2025 at Kala Academy, Panjim.

GTDC Chairman Shri Kedar J. Naik expressed pride in bringing the revered production to Goa, stating, “Goa is privileged to host RAM, a production that has touched countless lives across generations. Our focus is to bring distinguished cultural experiences to our people and enrich our artistic and social fabric.”

GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar added, “Hosting a production of this scale reaffirms our commitment to promoting diverse and meaningful cultural engagements. Goa Tourism is proud to support initiatives that celebrate India’s cultural legacy.”

The production, staged by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra—one of India’s premier cultural institutions—has been witnessed by millions worldwide and is admired for its powerful storytelling, refined choreography, and artistic excellence. RAM stands as one of the most iconic interpretations of India’s historic epic tradition.

This initiative aligns with Goa’s ongoing commitment to elevating its cultural landscape. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa continues to promote meaningful artistic exchanges and world-class cultural experiences.

Adding to this culturally significant moment, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Goa on 28th November to unveil a magnificent 77-foot statue of Lord Ram at the Shree Samsthan Gokarna Partagali Jeevottam Mutt, Canacona. GTDC’s staging of RAM complements this landmark event, reinforcing Goa’s readiness to showcase its cultural depth and hospitality.

The event is supported by Ravindra Bhavan Vasco and Kala Academy Panaji, both of which have extended their venues for the performances, ensuring accessibility for audiences across Goa.

Entry will be provided through entry bands on a first-come, first-served basis, making the event open and accessible to all.

GTDC and the Department of Tourism invite the people of Goa to witness RAM, a timeless cultural masterpiece that celebrates India’s heritage through breathtaking artistry.

For more information, contact: 9823679702 & 7972922490

EduConnect

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona Shines at Colourful Annual Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Aldona came alive with colour, music, and celebration as it hosted its Annual Day on 22nd November 2025. The programme opened on a patriotic note with the National Anthem and School Anthem, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to talent, culture, and achievement. The Manager, Rev. Fr. Jerard Sahayaraj MSFS, welcomed the gathering and emphasised the school’s dedication to holistic education, shaping students not only academically but also morally and culturally.

The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr. Ashwin Fernandes, Founder of the PACT Foundation; Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira, MLA of Aldona Constituency; and Rev. Fr. Johnson Gonsalves MSFS, Provincial Superior of the Pune Province. Their encouraging words applauded the students’ creativity and reinforced the need to preserve Goan culture and language.

The cultural programme proved to be the highlight of the evening. Students showcased a graceful welcome dance, engaging Goan folk items, dynamic fusion performances, lively comedy skits, and an impactful thematic play titled “Hope Does Not Disappoint Us.” Each performance reflected hours of preparation, collaboration, and artistic expression, earning hearty applause from the audience.

The Prize Distribution Ceremony rewarded outstanding achievements in academics and co-curricular fields, with Purple House proudly lifting the Overall Championship trophy. A special moment of the evening was the felicitation of teacher Asiambi Shaikh, who was honoured for her 25 years of dedicated service to the institution.

Principal Mrs. Angelica Fernandes expressed deep gratitude to the management, staff, parents, and students for their steadfast support in making the event memorable. The celebrations concluded with a spirited medley of Goan songs, accompanied by a live band that filled the campus with energy and nostalgia. The Annual Day 2025 will be remembered as a joyous celebration of talent, culture, and community spirit.

Events in Goa

Heritage First Festival Returns with 41 Walks and Workshops to Celebrate Goa’s Living Heritage

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s living heritage once again takes centre stage as the Heritage First Festival returns for its second edition, promising to spotlight the cultural, ecological and historical wealth of the state. Organised by the not-for-profit Heritage First Goa (HFG) — founded by heritage advocates Heta Pandit, Jack Ajit Sukhija, and Snigdha Manchanda — the festival will be held from November 14 to December 7, 2025 and will feature 41 walks and workshops spread across three weeks.

From the tranquil villages and khazan lands to the city streets and coastal landscapes, this edition of the festival explores Goa’s multifaceted heritage through immersive experiences. Participants will have the chance to embark on a village walk in Saligao with Subodh Kerkar, dive into the biodiversity of Chorao’s mangroves and otter habitats with Kilian Hughes and Katrina Fernandez, explore prehistoric caves in Chicalim with Cyril Fernandes, or discover Panaji’s nocturnal charm through a night walk guided by Pritha Sardessai.

Beyond the walks, the festival’s workshops will offer deeper engagement with Goa’s art and craft traditions. Attendees can learn the intricacies of Kaavi art with Darpana Athale, explore the textures and heritage of the Kunbi saree weave with Mahalaxmi Bhobe, join a poetry walk with Meera Ganpathi across the scenic fields of Parra, build a sand dune on Miramar’s beach alongside Dr Antonio Mascarenhas and Gabriella D’Cruz, or enjoy community kitchen experiences in Chorao led by Amreen Sheikh.

“Goa has so much to offer in terms of heritage and culture, which people are still not aware of beyond their own local boundaries. In this second edition of the festival, we aim to throw a spotlight on these gems and educate the general public as there is yet so much of our heritage which is yet unknown to us, especially the younger generation. We hope that through the walks and workshops people are able to understand, connect and in turn preserve the heritage of the state,” says Heta Pandit of Heritage First Goa.

The festival also opens the door for individuals and businesses to play a role in heritage preservation by adopting a walk through modest contributions, helping sustain the operational costs and supporting the cause in a tangible way.

Registration for each event is mandatory, with limited slots available to ensure meaningful engagement. Tickets are priced at ₹750 per event, and attendees are encouraged to pre-book their slots to be part of this journey that celebrates Goa’s living legacy.

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.

Goan Personalities

MLA Govind Gaude to Play Lead Role in “Desh Raag” — A Drama on Freedom Fighter Bala Raya Mapari

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In a unique blend of politics and performance, former Minister and current Priol MLA Govind Gaude is set to take centre stage in Parikrama Knowledge Terminus’ drama “Desh Raag.” The play, which celebrates the life and legacy of freedom fighter Bala Raya Mapari, will be performed at Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir, Ponda, on October 29 at 7 PM.

“Desh Raag” is a heartfelt theatrical tribute that brings to life the sacrifices and struggles of Bala Raya Mapari, a prominent figure in Goa’s freedom movement. The production aims to connect audiences with the emotional and patriotic journey of one of the state’s unsung heroes.

Govind Gaude’s participation in the drama has drawn significant attention and appreciation from the Goan art and cultural community. Known for his passion for culture and heritage, Gaude’s involvement highlights the importance of leaders actively engaging in preserving and promoting Goa’s artistic traditions.

The event promises to be a moving artistic experience that blends storytelling, music, and performance — offering audiences a glimpse into the spirit of patriotism and the resilience that defined Goa’s journey to freedom.

As the curtains rise at Ponda’s Rajiv Gandhi Kala Mandir, “Desh Raag” stands as a reminder that art continues to play a vital role in keeping history and heroism alive in the hearts of people.

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