Tag: Konkani Cinema

Events in Goa

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

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

Films

Goa State Film Festival 2025 Brings Together 10th, 11th & 12th Editions

allycaralgoa

Panaji is set to shine under the cinematic spotlight as the 10th, 11th, and 12th editions of the Goa State Film Festival kick off on August 14, 2025 at INOX Screen 1, Panaji. The inauguration will be graced by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and Smt. Delilah M Lobo, MLA and Vice Chairman of the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG).

Film lovers can look forward to screenings at Maquinez Palace Theatre and INOX, Panaji, with 19 feature films and 4 non-feature films vying for 21 feature and 7 non-feature awards. The festival will also host insightful workshops and masterclasses by renowned film personalities, including Shri Neelaabh Kaul, Shri Pankaj Saxena, veteran actor Shri Kanwarjit Paintal, and Shri Chitah Yajnesh Shetty.

One of the most anticipated moments will be the lifetime achievement award presentation to Smt. Varsha Usgaonkar, an acclaimed actress, singer, model, and social worker who has left her mark in Hindi, Marathi, and Konkani cinema. This honor will be conferred during the award ceremony on August 17, 2025.

The opening ceremony promises a vibrant cultural experience with performances by celebrity singer Jolly Mukherjee, a solo band act by Mukesh Ghatwal, and a comedy show by Sagar Karande and Ankur Wadhave.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the INOX courtyard will host a food court and handicraft stalls from August 14 to 17, 2025. Winners of the 48 Hours Short Film Competition will also be announced on opening day.

Delegate registration is open for Goan Film Fraternity, Film Enthusiasts, Student Delegates, and Media Delegates. For details, visit www.esg.co.in.

Films

Goa Film Finance Scheme Reopens from June 18–25 to Support Local Filmmakers

allycaralgoa

Panaji | June 17, 2025 — The Department of Information and Publicity, Government of Goa, has announced the reopening of the Goa Film Finance Scheme from June 18 to June 25, 2025. This short window offers an important opportunity for Goan filmmakers to submit pending applications and avail themselves of financial support for feature and non-feature films.

Announcing the reopening, MLA Delilah Lobo urged all eligible filmmakers to make use of the scheme and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing Goa’s vibrant cinematic talent and preserving its rich cultural narratives.

🎬 About the Scheme

The Goa Film Finance Scheme is designed to promote local cinema and support Goan filmmakers in producing feature films and documentaries across the languages of Konkani, Marathi, English, and Hindi. The scheme plays a crucial role in encouraging artistic expression and storytelling rooted in Goan identity, history, and social realities.

Under the scheme:

  • Filmmakers can receive financial assistance for production-related expenses.
  • Both new and pending applications will be considered during this special window.
  • Films must prominently involve Goan talent or themes, and be substantially produced in Goa.

🎥 Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Goan filmmakers (individuals or production houses)
  • Producers working on features or non-feature films (documentaries, shorts, etc.)
  • Projects that are either in production, post-production, or completed but not yet funded

The support aims to reduce the financial barriers to producing quality cinema and enhance the visibility of Goan films on national and international platforms.

📅 Important Dates:

  • Application Window: June 18 – June 25, 2025
  • Where to Apply: Department of Information & Publicity, Government of Goa
  • Contact: Applicants can visit the official Goa DIP website or contact the office for submission guidelines and documents required.

“We urge all filmmakers with pending or new projects to take advantage of this scheme. This is not just about financial aid—it’s about supporting Goan voices and stories,” said MLA Delilah Lobo.

The Government of Goa continues to encourage creative industries as part of its broader vision to make Goa a hub for regional cinema and cultural expression. With this scheme, the state seeks to empower local talent and provide a platform for storytelling that resonates across languages and cultures.

Goa’s finest jewels 💎

Kevin D’Mello: A Shining Star in the Entertainment Industry

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Goan actor Kevin D’Mello’s remarkable journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to his unwavering dedication, unrelenting passion, and natural talent. From his early days of singing and performing on stage to his notable roles in Bollywood films and Konkani cinema, Kevin’s story is an inspiration to aspiring actors and a reflection of his commitment to his craft.


Growing up in a family of music lovers, Kevin’s grandfather would sing traditional Goan songs, while his father wrote and performed “Kantar” (a form of Konkani folk singing). These early influences sparked Kevin’s passion for performance, which eventually led him to pursue a career in acting. His father, Cezar D’Mello, was a significant influence on his life, encouraging him to explore his creative side.


Kevin recalls his time at the Kala Academy School of Drama, where he faced the challenge of acting in Marathi, a language he wasn’t familiar with. However, he persevered and eventually landed roles in two Marathi films, “Prem at First Sight” and “Prem Sutra.” This experience taught him the importance of being adaptable and open to learning. Kevin’s ability to break language barriers has been a significant factor in his success, allowing him to work in various languages and connect with diverse audiences.


Among his notable roles, Kevin fondly remembers playing the main villain in the popular TV serial “CID.” He also cherishes his experiences working with Bollywood legends like Jackie Shroff, Seema Biswas, and Anushka Sharma. These experiences have not only honed his craft but also given him valuable insights into the industry.


Kevin emphasizes the importance of doing theater to develop one’s craft and flexibility as an actor. He advises youngsters to be brave, committed, and patient, as success in the entertainment industry takes time. Kevin also stresses the need for actors to be open to learning and growth, embracing challenges and using them as opportunities to improve.

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Kevin is currently working on several projects, including music videos and two upcoming Konkani films. He is optimistic about the growth of Konkani cinema and believes that with audience support, it can become a prominent regional cinema. Kevin’s passion for promoting Konkani culture and language is evident in his work, and he hopes to continue making significant contributions to the industry.


Throughout his journey, Kevin has learned valuable lessons about punctuality, discipline, and the importance of developing extra skills like dancing. He stresses the need for patience, respect for seniors and juniors, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Kevin’s commitment to his craft and his values has earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans.


Kevin D’Mello’s inspiring journey is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and passion for acting. As he continues to excel in his craft, he remains committed to promoting Konkani culture and encouraging aspiring actors to pursue their dreams. Kevin’s story serves as a reminder that success in the entertainment industry requires perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow.