Tag: Heritage

Travel

Stakeholders Unite, Stories Shine: Goa Tourism Wraps Up Month-Long World Tourism Day Celebrations

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, 29th September 2025 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, successfully concluded a month-long celebration of World Tourism Day 2025, culminating in the World Tourism Day Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival at ESG, Panaji. This curated film showcase brought together diverse voices and visual stories reflecting Goa’s cultural depth, coastal and hinterland experiences, and the state’s shift towards responsible and inclusive tourism.

The grand finale at ESG featured a line-up of compelling short films including Postcards from Goa, Islands on Island, Sashticho Koddo, Bread and Belonging, Kharvan, The Birdman of Chorao, Caazu, I Am Nothing, Sadabahar, Conversations on Oviyos, Written in Corners, Petroglyphs and Manohar Rai Sardesai. Thoughtful interactions with filmmakers such as Vince Costa, Sonia Filinto, Nalini Elvino de Sousa, Elsa de Souza, Ronak Kamat and Shaistah Thapar added depth to the festival, which resonated with students, influencers, and tourism professionals alike.

The month-long festivities reflected a dynamic model of tourism that reaches beyond traditional beach destinations. The Department of Tourism organised over a dozen experiential activities that highlighted Goa’s regenerative and community-centric tourism model. These included forest walks in bioluminescent zones, kayaking expeditions, river cruises, coconut farming, bread-making experiences in rural villages, cycling tours through Chorao Island, and heritage walks at Aguad and Monte Santo. These experiences offered visitors a unique look into Goa’s natural assets and living traditions while creating economic opportunities for local communities.

The celebrations also served as a platform for learning and collaboration. On 27th September, Goa hosted its largest ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at the Grand Hyatt, bringing together hoteliers, tour operators, travel agents, government bodies, industry experts, and aspiring tourism entrepreneurs to discuss the future of Goa’s tourism sector. Topics included sustainable growth strategies, youth engagement, and tapping into emerging global markets.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasised that Goa’s tourism story is no longer just about leisure—it is now about learning, responsibility, and contributing to places and communities. He praised the active involvement of students, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and entrepreneurs, noting that Goa’s inclusive tourism model sets a benchmark for the rest of the country. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a regenerative tourism economy that preserves culture, nurtures nature, and benefits all stakeholders.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik reiterated the campaign’s core message of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” stressing the need to involve and uplift local communities, especially women and youth. The department’s vision for tourism in Goa is to combine innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability—empowering those who form the backbone of the tourism industry while curating authentic visitor experiences.

With enthusiastic support from students, filmmakers, homestay owners, content creators, NGOs, and industry professionals, the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations served as a vibrant reminder of Goa’s evolving identity as a hub of responsible, community-based tourism. As Goa sets its sights on becoming a year-round tourism destination rooted in regenerative values, the success of this initiative reflects a collective commitment to telling better stories, building better systems, and welcoming the world with purpose.

Human Interest

Lisbon: A Meeting of Rivers, Roads and Roots – A Story by Marius Festakar

Tanisha Cardozo

Sailing into Lisbon on my cruise felt like entering a living history book. As the ship glided up the broad Tagus River, the city revealed itself — church spires, tiled façades, and the iconic sweep of the 25 de Abril Bridge. It reminded me that, like Goa, Lisbon treats the sea not as a boundary but a bridge — one that connects cultures, faiths, and communities across oceans.

Walking through the Alfama quarter, I was overcome by a sense of familiarity. The winding cobbled streets, azulejo-tiled buildings, and the haunting strains of fado evoked the same nostalgia I’ve experienced during Goa’s festas. Standing at the Castelo de São Jorge, gazing over the red rooftops spilling toward the river, I thought of the ships that once sailed east — many bound for Goa — shaping our cuisine, architecture, and shared traditions.

Transport in Lisbon was not just functional; it was part of the story. I climbed aboard the yellow Tram 28 — its wooden frame squealing as it negotiated narrow alleys and steep hills, brushing past miradouros and historic churches. Later, I switched to a tuk-tuk — a playful, modern twist on mobility. The driver, lively and knowledgeable, pointed out secret viewpoints and offered stories that felt deeply personal. In those moments, I saw Lisbon’s two faces: one grounded in heritage, the other moving forward with energy.

One of the places that touched me deeply was the Church of St. Anthony, built near the saint’s birthplace. St. Anthony is beloved in both Lisbon and Goa. We celebrate his feast with music, prayer, and devotion back home. Standing in that church, I was reminded that traditions travel — just as I’ve carried stories, songs, and festivals between Lisbon and Goa.

For over 25 years, through 103 people’s festivals across Goa, I’ve worked to showcase our community’s resilience and joy. In Lisbon, I saw a kindred spirit — a city that respects its past while embracing the present. Sipping a pastel de nata with a bold bica, I thought of how sharing a Goan Doce de Grao at our festivals is more than hospitality — it’s a cultural handshake, a bite-sized story.

As the ship pulled away at sunset, Lisbon did not feel like a mere stop on the map. It felt like a mirror to my own path as Marius Festakar — a journey rooted in tradition, shaped by the sea, and driven by a deep desire to keep our heritage alive, accessible, and inclusive.

International

Paris Prepares to Tear Down the Eiffel Tower After 20 Years

Tanisha Cardozo

Paris stands at a crossroads — the city may soon bid farewell to the Eiffel Tower. Originally conceived for the 1889 Universal Exposition as a temporary iron structure, the tower was intended to be dismantled after 20 years. Though its permit was extended and the structure survived thanks to scientific uses and sheer popularity, now officials say the time has finally come to restore Paris’s classical aesthetic.

The move comes amid persistent complaints from locals that the tower is “ugly,” “out of place,” or a blight on the city’s architectural harmony. City planners argue that Paris should return to its tradition of Haussmannian facades, elegant boulevards, and harmonious rooflines — unspoiled by industrial iron frames piercing the sky.

Officials claim the Eiffel Tower has served its purpose: as a showcase of modern engineering, a magnet for tourists, and a communications platform. But they argue its continued existence undermines Paris’s identity and that the monument must go once the 20-year lease, which expires next year, lapses.

Heritage experts and historians, however, warn of the cultural cost. The tower has grown into a global icon — a symbol synonymous with Paris. To erase it could be to erase a piece of collective imagination. Some say future generations may scarcely know it existed. The debate raises deeper questions: how do cities balance preserving iconic structures with evolving civic identities? Where does the line lie between architectural purity and living heritage?

Previous generations saved the Eiffel Tower by converting it into a radio and meteorological station, extending its life beyond original intentions. Throughout its existence, it has undergone recurring renovations — repainting, structural audits, modernization of lifts and lighting — funded through tourism revenue and public investment.

Yet, dissent remains. Some residents see the tower as an ever-present oddity in a city defined by elegance. Others fear that removing it would be an irreversible act of cultural amnesia.

As Paris debates the fate of its most famous landmark, it confronts a central paradox: can a city truly flourish if it erases the very monuments that made it legendary?

Events in Goa

Historian Sanjeev Sardesai to Speak on ‘Unknown Goa, Unknown Goenkar’ at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

Goan Festivals

Celebrating Joy, Culture and Community at the First-Ever Khoshi Lokanchem Fest – The Happy People’s Festival!

allycaralgoa

The spirit of Goa came alive on 5th April 2025 at the Goa College of Home Science with the successful debut of the Khoshi Lokanchem Fest – the Happy People’s Festival – curated by Festakar Marius Fernandes and hosted by Principal Dr. Mahesh Pai. This marked Festakar’s 99th inclusive festival, celebrating Goa’s vibrant heritage, culture, food, music, and people.

The day began with the symbolic Festakar Pasoi – a special knowledge-sharing walk around the college’s loom and textile laboratory, led by Marius Fernandes and Principal Dr. Pai. Dignitaries including Miguel Braganza, Alexyz, Avelino D’sa, Nicole Suares, Willy Goes, Sheryl Afonso, Louella Dias, and Fatima Bertha Fernandes joined in the ceremonial lamp lighting. Principal Dr. Pai officially opened the festival with a warm welcome, a presentation of a Kunbi shawl and a plant to Festakar.

Book Launch – “Across Three Continents: Legacy of Antonetta Fernandes”

The festival also witnessed the heartfelt launch of Across Three Continents: Legacy of Antonetta Fernandes, a powerful debut by Nicole Suares, published by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas. Noted writer Willy Goes emphasized the importance of preserving family legacies through documentation.

Culture in Conversation & Performance

A midday highlight was the Ghumot Gozalli, a spirited discussion between Marius Fernandes and journalist Nicole Suares on the future of the Ghumot – Goa’s state instrument. In a festive moment, Dr. Pai cut a Ghumot-shaped cake while the Sunshine Band performed the traditional Konkani birthday song.

Making their debut were the 5G – Global Goan Girls’ Ghumot Group with a vibrant performance of Goa Beach by Kuljeet Bhamra, choreographed by Ragwi Raju Naik.

Goan Flavours, Health and Community Wellness

In the Bolcãocheo Gozalli sessions, Professor Sheryl Afonso led insightful talks with Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas on women’s health and nutrition, followed by a session with Suman Goswami on sugar-free Goan treats like sweet potato neureos and Ragi Tizaan.

A sugar-free food workshop was complemented by a bustling bazaar with over 20 stalls offering local sweets, plants, seasonal produce, and crafts.

Workshops, Inclusion & Artistic Showcases

Counsellor Louella Dias introduced a student flash mob, followed by impactful workshops on accessibility, inclusion, and diversity by Prakash Kamat. A traditional Diuli dance and a Kunbi saree draping demonstration by Dr. Charlotte Facho Lourenco, featuring Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas as the model, showcased Goa’s living textile heritage.

In a later Bolcãocheo Gozalli, Dr. Pai and Prakash Kamat discussed building an inclusive future for Goa.

The staff of the college—teaching and non-teaching—took the stage with Goenchim Noketram, choreographed by Louella Dias. The much-loved Kottieacho Nach, choreographed by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas and conceptualized by Festakar Marius, brought the community together in a joyous cultural anthem.

Live music by Dr. Glenis Mendonca (guitar) and Renald Mendonca (violin) filled the air with beloved Konkani melodies, followed by a spirited closing performance by the Sunshine Band.

In her vote of thanks, Professor Sheryl Afonso acknowledged all contributors and participants. Festakar Marius Fernandes reflected, “Khoshi Lokanchem Fest brought together diverse voices, traditions and talents, building a people-powered platform where Goa’s legacy meets contemporary relevance.”

Looking Ahead – The 100th Festival!

The grand milestone – the 100th Fest – will take place on 12th April 2025 at the Goa College of Agriculture, Old Goa with the HONEY Fest, promising to inspire future generations through joy, collaboration, and cultural pride.