On the occasion of World Tourism Day, historian and heritage promoter Sanjeev Sardesai will deliver a special public lecture titled ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’, hosted at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias in Panaji. This engaging session is part of the club’s ongoing centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of cultural and sporting legacy.
Scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 6 PM to 7 PM, the event aims to take audiences on a journey into Goa’s lesser-known historical narratives, people, and cultural nuances. Sardesai, known for his deep knowledge of Goan history and his dynamic storytelling, will uncover stories that lie beyond the commonly told tales, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on Goa’s multifaceted identity.
With a career dedicated to preserving and promoting Goan heritage, Sardesai’s talk is expected to explore the hidden layers of Goa’s past—its unsung heroes, vanishing traditions, and overlooked landmarks—inviting attendees to rediscover the richness of the state beyond the familiar.
The talk is open to the public and entry is free, making it an ideal event for history enthusiasts, students, cultural aficionados, and anyone curious about Goa’s roots. As World Tourism Day celebrates cultural exchange and sustainable travel, this lecture offers a meaningful way to reflect on the unique identity of Goa and its people.
For those who cherish Goa not just for its scenic beauty but for its soul, ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’ promises to be an enriching experience.
Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral
In a heartfelt expression of devotion and tradition, Mapusa Constituency MLA Joshua De Souza welcomed Our Lady of Home into his residence, marking a spiritually significant moment for his family and the broader Christian community in Goa. The visit is part of a long-standing tradition celebrated throughout the state, where the statue of the Blessed Mother moves from one home to another during the months leading to the New Year.
“I welcome Mother Mary into my home today, a moment that strengthens our faith and keeps alive a treasured tradition. It is truly a blessing to have our Blessed Mother visit every household, filling our lives with peace, grace, and protection. May her presence continue to bless our families and keep us steadfast in faith,” said MLA De Souza.
Known as the Queen of Home, Our Lady of Home is a symbol of unity, hope, and spiritual protection in Christian households. Referred to lovingly as the Mother of strengthening homes, she holds a special place in the hearts of Goan Catholics. Her presence is believed to bring calm, faith, and a renewed spiritual connection within families.
Each September, this sacred tradition begins as the image of Our Lady of Home makes its way across Christian households, a journey that continues until the arrival of the New Year. This act of devotion is not only a spiritual practice but also a means of bringing communities together, reviving bonds and reinforcing shared values of faith and family.
The visit of Our Lady of Home to MLA Joshua De Souza’s house signifies the role of public figures in upholding cultural and religious practices that define Goan identity. It also serves as a reminder of the strength that communities draw from shared traditions, especially in times when unity and peace are most needed.
As the Blessed Mother continues her journey through homes in Goa, her presence carries a universal message of hope, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Cumbarjua, 3rd September 2025 – The annual Sangod Utsav, celebrated on the seventh day of Ganesh Chaturthi, took centre stage at the Cumbharjua Canal, drawing villagers, devotees, and visitors in large numbers. The festival is rooted in the Ganesh Visarjan ritual on the seventh day, which gave rise to this unique centuries-old tradition. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural celebration that beautifully captures the essence of Goan life through devotion, performance, and community spirit.
Present to witness the spectacle were Shri Mauvin Godinho, Hon’ble Minister for Panchayat; Shri Premendra Shet, MLA Mayem; Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism; and Shri Rajesh Faldesai, MLA (Cumbarjua) & Chairman, Goa Rehabilitation Board, together with Shri Gaurav Kudchadkar (CSR – Deccan Fine Chemicals), Dr. Shivaji M. Shet (President, Shree Shantadurga Kumbharjuvekarin Temple), Shri Chandrashekhar Phadte, and local leaders including Shri Sachin Gaude (Sarpanch) and Mr. Sudhir Phadte (Dy. Sarpanch), supported by Panchayat members and the entire community.
Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte remarked, “Sangod Utsav is a living canvas of our cultural heritage. By engaging our youth in mythological enactments and artistry, we sustain traditions and foster regenerative tourism in Goa. This festival has evolved into a floating theatre, villagers don colourful costumes, enact characters, and bring stories alive on the water. It connects devotion, creativity, and community in a unique way”
Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik stated, “The Sangod Utsav is a fine example of how cultural traditions can be preserved while also becoming a unique attraction for cultural and experiential tourism. Such festivals reinforce Goa’s commitment to regenerative tourism, where communities are at the heart of the experience.”
The Shantadurga Kumbharjuvekarin Temple in Marcel serves as the epicentre of this tradition. After rituals and prayers, Lord Ganesh is carried in procession and placed on a sangod, a decorated platform created by joining two traditional canoes. The idol then makes five ceremonial rounds of the canal before immersion.
Each sangod carried elaborate scenes inspired by the Ramayana, Mahabharata, folk tales, and social themes, anchored in traditional religious performance. Young villagers took charge of float design, dramatic enactments, costumes, and navigation, transforming the canal into a vivid open-air stage and competing for creative excellence. The event drew significant local and regional spectators, reinforcing Cumbarjua’s identity as a vibrant destination for experiential heritage tourism. Entire wards and families across Golwada, Marcel, Rambhuvanwada and surrounding areas came together, tying boats, rehearsing performances, coordinating rituals, and celebrating shared pride.
The 2025 Sangod Utsav reaffirmed the spirit of devotional theatre on water, preserving a centuries-old ritual while creatively engaging multiple generations. With government support and improving infrastructure, the festival grows in scale each year, drawing attention from cultural enthusiasts and strengthening sustainable tourism anchored in local identity.
The Goan Football Cup 2025 has emerged as a monumental celebration of sport, culture, and community abroad. Held at Cranford Community College in London on August 23, the tournament drew record participation, with 28 men’s teams and three women’s teams — making it the largest Goan football tournament outside Goa.
The second edition of the event reinforced the Goan community’s love for the game while showcasing its inclusive nature. Players from different communities competed side by side, with Goan teams putting up strong performances against sides featuring seasoned English 5-a-side players.
One of the most inspiring stories of the tournament was the participation of Wilred United Goa, led by manager Joe Vas. The team traveled from Goa to London, making a powerful statement about the global reach of Goan football. Their women’s team, which included former India junior international Anline Fernandes, dominated the competition and won the championship without conceding a single goal. Their victory, achieved in their very first appearance together, stands as a proud moment for Goan women’s football and the diaspora.
Southall Athletic WFC put on a strong performance to finish as runners-up in the women’s tournament after an unbeaten group stage. In the men’s category, it was Daily Ballin who emerged victorious, defeating Filthy Starz in a thrilling finale.
But the event was about much more than just the matches. The Goan Football Cup transformed into a festival, with families and fans enjoying authentic Goan food by Pratos De Goa, Feni cocktails by GoaTails, and vibrant live performances from artists Saneev, Rochus, and singer Braga. The atmosphere was electric, merging sport with cultural pride.
The prize distribution ceremony, led by community leaders Xavier Vas, Jules Alberto Dias, Ruksana Braz, and celebrated singer Mark Revlon, honoured team achievements and individual excellence.
With its growing stature, the Goan Football Cup has now firmly established itself as the flagship Goan sporting event outside India. As the community celebrates this success, one thing is clear — this is just the beginning of a powerful legacy that will continue to unite Goans and amplify their passion for football on a global stage.
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant’s residence reflected Goa’s vibrant culture and festive unity. The occasion was graced by the presence of MLAs Michael Lobo and Rodolfo Fernandes, who joined the traditional Ghumat Arti, adding spiritual depth and musical resonance to the event.
As devotional songs echoed through the air and the aroma of traditional offerings filled the space, the celebration stood as a symbol of communal harmony and cultural pride. The participation of leaders from across the political spectrum in the festivities underscored a sense of shared heritage and respect for Goa’s deeply rooted traditions.
The Ghumat, a traditional Goan percussion instrument, played a central role in the Arti, as attendees gathered in reverence to Lord Ganesha. The presence of prominent leaders highlighted the unifying spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi, reinforcing the significance of preserving and participating in cultural practices.
This year’s celebration not only paid homage to religious faith but also echoed the values of unity, devotion, and Goan identity.
