Tag: GTDC

Events in Goa

‘Shivshahichi Garjana’ Brings Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy Alive in Mapusa

Tanisha Cardozo

Mapusa witnessed a grand celebration of history and culture as the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, presented “Shivshahichi Garjana” to commemorate Shiv Jayanti. Held at Shree Bodgeshwar Ground, the event transformed the venue into a vibrant stage of storytelling, bringing to life the journey and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

    The large-scale production featured over 150 artistes performing on a specially designed revolving stage, creating an immersive theatrical experience for the audience. Through powerful performances and dramatic sequences, the event captured key moments from Shivaji Maharaj’s life, highlighting his courage, leadership, and connection with Goa and its people.

    Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of presenting history in engaging and contemporary formats, noting that such initiatives help connect younger generations with India’s rich heritage. The event also saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Joshua D’Souza, Priya Mishal, and officials from GTDC, reflecting strong institutional support for cultural initiatives in the state.

    A standout moment of the evening was the spectacular drone show featuring 300 drones. The sky lit up with synchronised formations depicting iconic symbols such as the Bhagwa Flag, Raigad Fort, and the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj. The visual display added a modern and captivating dimension to the historical tribute.

    The performances were further elevated by the portrayal of Shivaji Maharaj by Shantanu Moghe and Jijamata by Alka Kubal, whose powerful enactments brought emotional depth and authenticity to the production.

    The event drew a large and enthusiastic crowd, underlining the deep cultural connection and reverence for Shivaji Maharaj among the people of Goa. “Shivshahichi Garjana” not only celebrated a historic figure but also showcased Goa’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation, creating memorable experiences for both residents and visitors.

    Travel

    Goa Tourism Strengthens Industry Ties at Travel Agents Meet 2026

    Tanisha Cardozo

    Panjim, 14th February 2026 – The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), a Government of Goa undertaking, organised the Travel Agents Meet 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from the travel and tourism industry to strengthen collaboration and align strategies for promoting Goa as a diverse, experience-led destination. The meet witnessed participation from 55 travel agents, online travel agencies and NTS operators, along with other members of the travel trade in Goa.

    The dignitaries present included Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte; Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar; General Managers Gavin Dias, Sachin Gore, Laxmikant Vaigankar and Kapil Paiguinkar, and Deputy General Manager Deepak Narvekar.

    Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of collaboration with the travel trade in shaping Goa’s tourism growth story. He stated that travel agents remain long-term partners in promoting Goa beyond its beaches and positioning the state as a holistic, experience-rich destination. He highlighted that the focus remains on balanced tourism growth that benefits local communities, strengthens livelihoods and enhances visitor satisfaction.

    Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik underlined the pivotal role of travel agents as the first point of contact for travellers. He noted that the confidence with which visitors choose Goa is closely linked to the trust they place in travel professionals. He further reiterated that GTDC’s responsibility goes beyond infrastructure and services, extending to creating an ecosystem where tourism supports livelihoods, preserves culture and ensures inclusive growth.

    Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar described the Travel Agents Meet as an important platform to align tourism products and services with evolving market needs. He stated that through continued engagement with the travel trade, GTDC aims to strengthen global promotion of Goa Tourism hotels, new tourism services and destination experiences while remaining responsive to changing traveller expectations.

    As part of the programme, seven prominent tour operators were felicitated, including representatives of the Tour Operators Association of India, Goa-based online travel agents and NTS operators, in recognition of their contribution to promoting Goa as a preferred destination. Deputy General Manager (Marketing) Deepak Narvekar announced the names of the stakeholders during the felicitation ceremony in the presence of the Minister for Tourism and other dignitaries.

    A detailed presentation on GTDC hotels and new tourism and adventure activities was delivered by General Manager Gavin Dias along with Senior Managers Vishesh Naik and Pravin Faldessai. Video films showcasing Goa Tourism, wildlife experiences, AVI Tourism and festivals were screened during the meet, offering attendees a broader perspective on the state’s evolving tourism landscape.

    The event also facilitated an interactive exchange between GTDC officials and members of the travel trade on emerging markets, evolving traveller preferences and collaborative promotion opportunities. Goa Tourism’s hotels, new services and curated destination experiences were highlighted with a strong emphasis on strengthening global visibility through strategic trade partnerships.

    The Travel Agents Meet 2026 served as a meaningful platform for dialogue, exchange of perspectives and deeper collaboration between Goa Tourism and the travel trade. The engagement reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working closely with industry stakeholders to position Goa as a preferred destination offering authentic, responsible and high-quality tourism experiences.

    Events in Goa

    Grand Curtain Raiser in Porvorim Sets the Stage for Goa Carnaval 2026

    Tanisha Cardozo

    The much-awaited Goa Carnaval 2026 commenced on a vibrant note this evening with a spectacular curtain raiser held at Porvorim, setting the tone for five days of colour, music and celebration across the State. The enthusiastic gathering of residents, artists and visitors transformed the town into a lively canvas of Goan culture and festive cheer.

    The parade was flagged off by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Chairman GTDC Kedar J Naik, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar and other senior officials. The evening underscored a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and the Porvorim Carnaval Committee to deliver a celebration rooted in heritage and responsibility.

    A defining highlight of the evening was the ceremonial proclamation by King Momo, Shri Cedric Da Costa, who led the procession in a traditional bullock cart, invoking the spirit of unity, joy and responsible celebration. The revival of this earlier custom paid homage to the legacy of musician Timoteo Fernandes, who played a pivotal role in reintroducing Carnaval in 1965 and popularising the arrival of King Momo in this distinctive manner.

    Addressing the gathering, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots while ensuring that the younger generation experiences the festival in its authentic form. He also highlighted that this year’s curtain raiser was consciously organised with certain route restrictions in place due to traffic regulations, ensuring respect for commuters and residents. Notably, the celebration avoided large mechanised floats and fuel-driven vehicles, reflecting a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach.

    Chairman GTDC Shri Kedar J Naik described Carnaval as a reflection of Goa’s unique cultural journey shaped by centuries of rich traditions and global influences. He noted that the festival brings together communities across faiths and regions, showcasing Goa’s vibrant artistic expression through music, dance and creative performances.

    Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik remarked that the curtain raiser in Porvorim set the rhythm for the grand festivities that will unfold across the State. The evening featured enthusiastic participation from local cultural groups, with performances that filled the air with rhythm, colour and excitement.

    The celebration now moves to Panaji on February 14 for the grand float parade, followed by festivities in Margao on February 15, Vasco da Gama on February 16 and Mapusa and Morjim on February 17. As celebrations unfold across these towns, Goa stands poised to experience one of its most cherished cultural festivals in full splendour, blending nostalgia, sustainability and collective joy.

    Events in Goa

    Statewide Shigmo Festival 2026 to Be Celebrated Across Goa from March 5 to 18

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    Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

    Panaji, February 2, 2026: Goa is all set to celebrate Shigmo 2026, one of the State’s most vibrant cultural festivals, showcasing its rich folk heritage through music, dance, and artistic expressions. A high-level meeting to review and plan the organisation of Shigmo float parades across various centres was chaired by Minister for Tourism, Rohan A. Khaunte, in the presence of Director of Tourism Kedar Naik and Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Kuldeep Arolkar.


    The meeting focused on ensuring the smooth and successful execution of the festival, with discussions covering logistics, adherence to timelines, inter-departmental coordination, and promotional strategies aimed at enhancing the reach and appeal of Shigmo 2026.

    Following the meeting, a press conference was held where Director of Tourism, Kedar Naik, along with MD GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar and Deputy General Manager (Marketing/Hotels), GTDC Deepak Narvekar, officially announced the festival dates, centres, and key arrangements.

    Addressing the media, Naik informed that Shigmo 2026 will be celebrated from March 5 to March 18, with colourful float parades organised across 19 centres in the State. The celebrations will commence in Ponda on March 5, followed by Calangute (March 6), Panaji (March 7), Mapusa (March 8), Mandrem (March 9), Bicholim (March 10), Sanquelim (March 11), Shiroda and Sanguem (March 12), Dharbandora and Cuncolim (March 13), Margao (March 14), Porvorim and Vasco (March 15), Valpoi and Curchorem (March 16), Quepem and Canacona (March 17), and will conclude at Pernem on March 18, 2026.

    The Director further stated that the Department of Tourism provides two types of grants annually for Shigmo celebrations—infrastructure support and prize money. This year, infrastructure assistance has been enhanced by an additional ₹1 lakh per centre to further strengthen festival arrangements.

    It was emphasised that parade routes must be finalised by the respective Shigmotsav Committees in consultation with the Traffic Cell and with prior permissions to ensure smooth traffic flow and public convenience. Committees were instructed to strictly adhere to all prescribed rules and regulations. A new set of guidelines for Romtamel groups has also been introduced, including a cap of 150 participants per group. Shigmo processions are to begin at 4:00 pm and conclude within the stipulated government time limits.

    Representatives from various Municipal Councils, officials from the Police Department, Traffic Cell, Fire and Emergency Services, Assistant Director (Tourism) Jayesh Kankonkar, and other concerned departments were present, reflecting coordinated planning for the successful conduct of the festival.

    Shigmo Festival 2026 is expected to once again bring together communities and visitors, offering an immersive experience of Goa’s living cultural traditions through vibrant floats, folk performances, and festive celebrations across the State.

    Events in Goa

    Guided Lok Bhavan Heritage Tour Flagged Off at Dona Paula to Promote Responsible Tourism Experiences

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    Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

    Dona Paula, January 24, 2026: As part of initiatives to promote curated and responsible visitor experiences, a guided Lok Bhavan Tour was organised by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and the Department of Tourism, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the heritage, architecture and natural surroundings of the Lok Bhavan premises through a structured walking trail.


    The tour was flagged off by the Governor of Goa, Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, along with the First Lady of Goa, Suneela Raju, at Lok Bhavan. The event was attended by Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte; Secretary to the Governor Arjun Mohan, IAS; General Manager, GTDC, Gavin Dias; Deputy General Manager, GTDC, Deepak Narvekar; Comptroller of Governor House A.K. Harsha; Founder of Soul Travelling Varun Hegde; representatives from various hotels and other dignitaries.

    Speaking on the occasion, the Governor appreciated the initiative, stating that the guided tour provides visitors with a valuable opportunity to understand and appreciate the heritage, surroundings and values associated with the Lok Bhavan premises.

    Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said that curated initiatives such as the Lok Bhavan Tour help present Goa’s heritage and natural surroundings in a structured and meaningful manner. He added that such experiences encourage responsible engagement with important public spaces while enhancing awareness of Goa’s cultural and ecological assets.

    Director of Tourism Kedar Naik stated that guided tours like the Lok Bhavan Tour reflect the growing emphasis on experiential tourism. He noted that these initiatives allow visitors to gain deeper insights into heritage and ecology while promoting responsible tourism practices.

    Managing Director of GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar said the tour has been thoughtfully designed to ensure a smooth, informative and dignified visitor experience, adding that GTDC continues to support initiatives that enhance the depth and quality of tourism offerings in the state.

    The guests and dignitaries were welcomed with a traditional cultural programme featuring Ghodemodni and dhol tasha, setting a vibrant and ceremonial tone for the occasion.

    Designed by Soul Travelling on behalf of GTDC and the Department of Tourism, the curated trail covered key locations within the Lok Bhavan premises, including the chapel and a sea-facing viewpoint, followed by an exterior overview of the main building. The tour also included a stop at the vintage Cadillac car for interaction and photographs, and a visit to the cannon point, where participants were briefed on its historical significance along with panoramic views.

    The trail further included visits to the gau shala, a sea-facing viewpoint, the Aushadhi Vatika (medicinal plant nursery) and the bird tower, highlighting the ecological dimensions of the Lok Bhavan premises.

    The Lok Bhavan Tour forms part of ongoing efforts by the state to promote well-organised, meaningful and responsible tourism experiences in Goa.