#faith

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


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

Automobiles

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates 1st Goa Auto Show 2025, Spotlight on Electric Vehicles


The 1st Edition of the Goa Auto Show 2025 was inaugurated at Kala Academy, Panaji, by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in the presence of Transport and Panchayat Minister Shri Mauvin Godinho and other dignitaries. This landmark event brings together leading automobile brands and cutting-edge technology to showcase the future of transport, with a special emphasis on Next Generation Electric Vehicles (EVs).

As the state of Goa pushes forward in its mission toward clean and sustainable urban mobility, this exhibition serves as a dynamic platform for innovation and public engagement. Citizens, industry professionals, students, and auto enthusiasts are invited to experience the latest trends in green transportation, including high-efficiency EVs, smart mobility systems, eco-conscious design, and advanced automotive engineering.

The show reflects Goa’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and integrating future-forward infrastructure into its transportation ecosystem. By spotlighting electric vehicles and green technologies, the Goa Auto Show 2025 is more than just an expo—it is a step toward environmental responsibility, lifestyle change, and technological evolution.

The Kala Academy exhibition space has been transformed into a vibrant arena of mobility, featuring top Indian and international automotive brands, interactive displays, test drive zones, and educational booths. This open-to-all event is designed to inspire curiosity, encourage informed consumer decisions, and spark conversations about the role of transport in a sustainable future.

With Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasizing the government’s proactive support for green innovation, and Shri Mauvin Godinho highlighting the importance of public engagement in the EV movement, the Goa Auto Show sets a precedent for similar initiatives in the future.

Whether you’re an industry insider, student, or simply an enthusiast, this event is an opportunity to witness the road ahead—where smart, sustainable, and electric is not just a concept, but a reality in motion.

EduConnect

Parul University to Inaugurate New High-Tech Campus in Goa on September 18


Parul University is set to mark a major milestone in Goa’s higher education landscape with the inauguration of its new campus near ONGC Betul in Quepem on September 18. The campus represents a significant step in making quality, industry-relevant education more accessible to Goan students, offering a broad range of modern and technical courses including physiotherapy, health sciences, pharmacy, and more.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant will officially inaugurate the campus, while Health Minister Vishwajit Rane will preside over the student oath-taking ceremony. The inauguration event is scheduled to be held at 10 am at the Kala Academy auditorium in Panaji, in the presence of dignitaries, university officials, faculty, and students.

Parul University has emphasized that the Goa campus is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and aims to create a strong academic ecosystem rooted in innovation and industry engagement. The university’s expansion into Goa is part of a broader commitment to bridging the educational gap and ensuring that students do not need to leave the state to access world-class learning opportunities.

As the state continues to invest in education and infrastructure, the arrival of Parul University’s Goa campus adds to the growing momentum of institutions that are helping shape the future of youth in the region.

Music

Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki Sangeet Mohotsav 2025: A Musical Tribute and Felicitation of Dr. Praveen Gaonkar


Goa is preparing for a magnificent two-day musical journey as the Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki Sangeet Mohotsav returns on 13th & 14th September at Kala Academy, Panaji, from 9 am to 9 pm.

This prestigious festival, dedicated to the memory of legendary vocalist and composer Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki, continues to celebrate the timeless beauty of Indian classical music.

This year’s edition brings together some of the greatest maestros, including Pt. Vinayak Torvi, Pt. Ronu Mujumdar, Pt. Atul Kumar Upadhye, and many others, who will enthrall audiences with their soulful performances.

Adding to the significance of the event, the Mohotsav will also honor Dr. Praveen Gaonkar, a celebrated Goan classical singer, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian classical music. His felicitation marks a proud moment for Goa’s cultural landscape, highlighting the state’s deep-rooted musical tradition.

The festival promises an enriching experience for connoisseurs and newcomers alike, offering twelve hours of music across two days in the serene setting of Kala Academy.

📅 Event Details:

  • Dates: 13th & 14th September 2025
  • Venue: Kala Academy, Panaji, Goa
  • Time: 9 am to 9 pm

✨ Join this grand celebration of classical music, honor the legacy of Pt. Jitendra Abhisheki, and witness the felicitation of Dr. Praveen Gaonkar—a proud moment for Goa’s cultural fraternity.

Events in Goa

Curtains Close on the 10th–12th Goa State Film Festival with Star-Studded Ceremony at Kala Academy


The vibrant world of Goan and Indian cinema came alive at the closing ceremony of the 10th, 11th, and 12th editions of the Goa State Film Festival, held at Kala Academy, Panaji, on 17th August 2025.

Graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant, and key dignitaries including Smt. Delilah M Lobo, Shri. Damu Naik, Shri. Ashwin Chandru, IAS, and Shri. Dipak Bandekar, the event marked a proud moment for the state’s film fraternity.

Smt. Delilah M Lobo welcomed guests and set the tone for a night dedicated to artistic excellence and cultural heritage.

🎖 Honoring Legends

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to the versatile and beloved Goan actress Smt. Varsha Usgaonkar—an icon of Konkani, Marathi, and Hindi cinema.
The Recognition of Goan Film Legacy was posthumously conferred on Late Baba Naik for his significant contribution to Goan cinema.

🏆 Award Highlights

10th Edition (2018–2019)

  • Best Feature Film: Juze (14 awards)

11th Edition (2020–2021)

  • Best Film: Ransaavat (7 awards)
  • Best Non-feature Film: Kupamcho Daryeo (5 awards)

12th Edition (2022–2023)

  • Best Feature Film: Mog (8 awards)
  • Best Non-feature Film: Gathan (3 awards)

🎬 48 Hours Short Film Competition

  • Best Film (1st Prize): Ful ani Savli (Flower and Shade)
  • Best Film (2nd Prize): Before Sunrise
  • Best Director: Glen Cardozo (Ful ani Savli)
  • Best Cinematographer: Tejas V. Naik
  • Best Editor: Yuri B. Carvalho
  • Best Actor (Male): Niraj Arrie (Lift)
  • Best Actor (Female): Rati Bhatikar (Ful ani Savli)

Awards were handed over by Dr. Pramod Sawant and esteemed guests including jury chairpersons Shri. Gajendra Ahire (Feature Films) and Shri. Asim Sinha (Non-feature Films).

🎤 Cultural Performances

The night was enriched by mesmerizing performances from:

  • Goan Fado singer Sonia Sirsat
  • Renowned composer-singer Ajit Parab
  • Comedy act by Bharat & More (Chala Hawa Yeu Dya fame)
  • Dance performance by Vardhan & Group

🙏 Closing Remarks

The vote of thanks was delivered by Shri. Dipak Bandekar, Director of the Department of Information & Publicity.

The festival witnessed an overwhelming response from filmmakers, artists, and cinema lovers across Goa, reaffirming the state’s growing influence in regional and national cinema.