Panaji, November 18, 2025: Member of Parliament Sadanand Shet Tanavade visited the Goa Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 in New Delhi, where he commended the efforts of Goan artists and artisans for showcasing the state’s cultural legacy on a national stage.
Tanavade, who is also a member of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce (DRPSC), was in New Delhi as part of a study visit to review the activities of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the body that organizes IITF. Following the study review, he made a special visit to the Goa Pavilion.
He was welcomed at the pavilion by Assistant Information Officer Shanto Naik and Information Assistant Siddhesh Samant from the Department of Information and Publicity.
Taking a keen interest in the range of Goan handicrafts and cultural displays, Tanavade lauded the department’s efforts in presenting Goa’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and cuisine at major national events. He interacted with cultural artists and artisans, appreciating their dedication in representing Goa beyond the state’s borders and showcasing their talent to a diverse audience.
The Goa Pavilion continues to draw attention at IITF 2025 for its vibrant display of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity.
Sattari, July 2025: In a significant move to bolster rural craftsmanship and entrepreneurship, Dr. Deviya Rane distributed clay moulding machines to three deserving artisans from remote areas of Sattari. This initiative, under the aegis of the Goa Handicrafts Rural & Small Scale Industrial Development Corporation Limited, marks a crucial step toward reviving traditional pottery and supporting sustainable livelihoods.
Shri Harichandra Kusta Gaonkar from Poriem – Sattari
Shri Tulshidas Shivlo Gaonkar from Maddiwada, Thane – Sattari
These clay moulding machines are more than just equipment—they’re tools for cultural preservation, skilled empowerment, and local economic development. By enabling artisans to modernize their practices while honoring tradition, the initiative bridges heritage with opportunity.
Dr. Rane emphasized that supporting such crafts aligns with her vision of a self-reliant Goa, where rural communities thrive through sustainable, skill-based enterprises. She highlighted the significance of preserving age-old techniques in pottery and handicrafts amidst rapid modernization.
This program highlights a broader effort to strengthen rural livelihoods, encourage artisanal entrepreneurship, and celebrate Goa’s rich cultural heritage—one clay moulding machine at a time.
The inaugural ceremony of Octave 2025, a national folk festival celebrating the rich cultural heritage of North Eastern India, was held with great fanfare. The festival, organized by the Directorate of Art & Culture, in collaboration with the West Zone Cultural Center, Udaipur, and North East Zone Cultural Center, Dimapur, promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, dance, art, and handicrafts from the region. Held at Ravindra Bhavan, Sankhali, the festival brings together artists and artisans from eight North Eastern states, providing a platform for them to showcase their talents and rich cultural traditions. The festival offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich cultural diversity of North East India, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality.
A Celebration of India’s Diverse Cultural Heritage Octave 2025 is a celebration of the unique cultural traditions of North East India, which is home to over 200 ethnic groups, each with their own distinct culture, language, and customs. The festival provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage, with its traditional folk music and dance performances, exhibitions of handicrafts and art, and much more.
A Must-Visit Event Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or simply interested in exploring the diverse cultural traditions of India, Octave 2025 is an event not to be missed. So, come and experience the vibrant culture of North East India, and be a part of this joyous celebration of music, dance, art, and handicrafts.
Margao, Jan 4, 2025: Goa witnessed an unforgettable evening of cultural celebration and entertainment at the Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2025, held in Margao on January 3, 2025. The event, organized by the Department of Tourism, brought together a rich blend of traditional and contemporary performances, drawing an enthusiastic audience from across the state.
The evening commenced with a vibrant inaugural ceremony which was graced by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C, Printing & Stationary, Shri Digambar Kamat, MLA – Margao Constituency; Shri Damu Naik, Ex. MLA; Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, MD, Goa Tourism Development Corporation(GTDC) and Shri Damodar Shirodkar, Chairperson, Margao Municipal Council and others.
The ceremonial lamp-lighting on stage by the dignitaries set a symbolic tone for the evening, followed by the felicitation of prominent local personalities who have made significant contributions to the community. The honourees included Founder of Pastry Palace, Shri Suresh Raghuvir Phadte; Konkani Tiatrist John De Silva; renowned Writer and Director Tiatrist Roseferns; and the celebrated Chef Avinash Martins. Their dedication to their crafts and contributions to the community were warmly recognized and celebrated.
Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, emphasized the importance of celebrating local talent and traditions, stating that such events create a platform for the community to showcase their skills and creativity. He further announced that this festival will be organized annually, providing a valuable opportunity for locals to promote their culinary expertise, traditional arts, and crafts. Dr. Sawant urged people to come and enjoy the festival, encouraging both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “This event is a vibrant celebration of Goa’s diverse cultural and culinary heritage, offering a glimpse of Goa beyond its famous beaches. It shines a light on the state’s rich traditions, timeless art forms, and the emerging talent that continues to shape Goa’s future. It’s inspiring to witness such immense talent come together to showcase the true essence of Goa.”
In his welcome address, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of the Department of Tourism, stated that the three-day festival will showcase Goa’s rich cultural and culinary heritage. Highlighting Goa as a paradise for food lovers, he added that this initiative aims to engage both tourists and locals in celebrating the festival.
Digamber Kamat expressed his gratitude for the festival, highlighting its role in promoting local self-help groups in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” initiative. He noted that the variety of stalls at the festival, showcasing local crafts, traditional foods, and handmade products, not only support local artisans but also provide visitors with a unique cultural experience.
The program featured an array of performances, including traditional dance acts by Kanta Gaude, which offered a glimpse into Goa’s cultural roots, and a stunning musical performance by Divya Naik that left the audience spellbound. Adding to the evening’s excitement, the musical band Lynx and the group “Pure Magic” delivered high-energy performances, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
The festival also features a wide array of stalls showcasing Goan food, local crafts, traditional delicacies, and handmade products. These stalls provide a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to display their talent while offering visitors an opportunity to experience the authentic flavours and cultural richness of Goa
This three-day extravaganza will celebrate Goa’s artistic brilliance and cultural vibrancy with captivating performances. On January 4th, budding talent will take centre stage with Konkani duet singers, the Goan Image Dance Troop, musical performance by Samruddh Chodankar and Vibh Algundage, comedy by Saidutt Kamat, and a high-energy show by the band Lace. The last day, January 5th, promises performances of Rajesh and Gautami and their troop, soulful music by Nishi Singh and her musicians, mimicry by Manohar Bhingi, and a spectacular closing act by the band Purple Rain.
This festival will showcase Goa’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant talent, offering a blend of tradition and contemporary performances. This celebration stands as a reflection to Goa’s dynamic spirit and commitment to its unique identity.
