Tag: #lifestyle

Events in Goa

Yin and Yang: A Celebration of Balance, Inclusivity and Inner Strength in Porvorim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Yin and Yang – In Balance with Body and Mind, organised on December 14, 2025, in Porvorim by SoulSync founders Sridevi Badami, Monica Sirohi, Poonam Gupta and Komala Soares, unfolded as an evening rooted in empowerment, inclusivity and self-discovery. The event was envisioned as a safe and welcoming platform for women from diverse walks of life, many of whom stepped onto the ramp for the very first time, embracing fashion as a tool for healing, confidence-building and self-expression.

The evening was elevated by the presence of iconic Bollywood singer Hema Sardesai as the celebrity guest. Her warmth and soulful performance left the audience enthralled, adding an emotional and celebratory depth to the event. Around 150 women participated wholeheartedly, reflecting the strong sense of community and shared purpose that defined the gathering.

Choreographed by Nadia Khan, the fashion walk unfolded through four thoughtfully curated themes inspired by the concept of Yin and Yang. Nature’s Symphony invited participants to interpret natural dualities such as ice and fire or strength and softness through creative attire. Trails of Tradition celebrated India’s rich cultural heritage with ethnic wear, while Urban Harmony showcased confidence and modernity through western outfits. Balanced Soul brought together indo-western ensembles, symbolising the harmony modern Indian women embody in their daily lives.

Beyond fashion, Indian culture came alive through vibrant dance performances presented by participants themselves, ranging from classical and fusion to Bollywood and Gidda. The event stood out for its inclusivity, welcoming women of all age groups, senior citizens and differently abled participants, reinforcing SoulSync’s belief that empowerment knows no boundaries.

Women entrepreneurs were also given a platform to showcase their products through dedicated stalls, adding another layer of support and visibility to women-led initiatives. Importantly, the event was tied to charity, with a portion of the proceeds directed towards a meaningful social cause, underscoring the organisers’ commitment to giving back to the community.

Well received and widely appreciated, the event was applauded for being punctual, thoughtfully organised, visually engaging and deeply inclusive. Yin and Yang – In Balance with Body and Mind emerged not just as a fashion showcase, but as a heartfelt celebration of balance, resilience and the collective strength of women.

Fit & Fabulous

Beyoncé Returns to the Met Gala After 10 Years as 2026 Co-Chair

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Beyoncé is returning to the Met Gala for the first time in a decade, stepping into the spotlight as a co-chair for the 2026 edition of fashion’s biggest night. Vogue announced that the “Cowboy Carter” creator will host the May 4 event alongside Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams and Anna Wintour. The prestigious annual gala, held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, will also mark the debut of the museum’s new 12,000-square-foot Condé M. Nast Galleries, named after the legendary magazine publisher behind Vogue, Vanity Fair and The New Yorker. The Met revealed that the upcoming exhibition, titled “Costume Art,” will be the first major showcase within the new space.

Designer Anthony Vaccarello and Zoë Kravitz will serve as co-chairs of the Met Gala Host Committee, joined by notable members including Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Gwendoline Christie, Misty Copeland, Elizabeth Debicki, Lena Dunham, Lisa, Sam Smith, Teyana Taylor, A’ja Wilson and others. With such an impressive lineup, the 2026 gala promises to be one of the most star-studded in recent history.

Beyoncé’s last Met Gala appearance was in 2016 for the “Manus x Machina” theme, where she stunned in a nude Givenchy Haute Couture gown. Over the years, she has delivered some of the gala’s most iconic looks, including her unforgettable sheer Givenchy gown for the 2015 “China: Through the Looking Glass” theme. She made her Met Gala debut in 2008 and attended annually from 2011 to 2016, often choosing designs from Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci.

Vogue highlighted her influence in its announcement, noting that her long, groundbreaking career — spanning her Destiny’s Child era to her global superstar status today — has produced countless memorable fashion moments. Her return as co-chair is expected to bring another show-stopping red carpet moment after ten years away.

Met Gala co-chairs are not just figureheads; they play an important role in shaping the event. Along with hosting the night, they collaborate with Anna Wintour on guest lists, décor and the evening’s menu. Co-chairs are also known to take the stage during the dinner portion of the event, which remains off-camera for attendees only. With Beyoncé now part of the leadership for the 2026 gala, anticipation for the event — and the fashion — has never been higher.

Business

Ministry of Tourism & Mastercard Sign MoU to Elevate India as a Global Tourism Hotspot

allycaralgoa

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India, has joined hands with Mastercard in a strategic two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening India’s global positioning as a premier tourism destination. This wide-ranging collaboration focuses on showcasing India’s diverse cultural, spiritual, natural, and culinary heritage to domestic and international travelers through Mastercard’s global marketing platforms — most notably its iconic Priceless™ program.

As part of the initiative, curated experiences will be brought to priceless.com, beginning with Goa, followed by exceptional cultural and spiritual journeys in Varanasi and rural Andhra Pradesh. Many more destinations are expected to be added, providing travellers with access to immersive, authentic, and rare experiences.

Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Honourable Minister of Tourism, emphasized India’s vast tourism potential, reaffirming the government’s mission to present India’s stories in innovative ways. He highlighted the role of corporate partnerships in amplifying India’s global outreach.

Mastercard brings its global marketing expertise, secure digital payment network, and multi-market influence to the collaboration. Through Priceless™, the company aims to spotlight India’s diverse heritage while also supporting the development of safe and seamless digital payment practices across the tourism ecosystem.

Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Mastercard, said the initiative intends to bring India’s remarkable stories “closer to travellers everywhere,” while ensuring unforgettable and authentic experiences.

Gautam Aggarwal, President, India & South Asia, Mastercard, added that strengthening digital payments—especially in remote regions—would boost the tourism value chain and drive economic participation across local communities.

Under the MoU, Mastercard will operate as the Knowledge Partner, while the Ministry of Tourism will identify strategic travel corridors and support collaborations with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Ministry of Culture, and State Tourism Boards.

Beyond tourist engagement, the 24-month MoU will focus on:

  • Encouraging secure and responsible digital payment practices
  • Expanding seamless payment acceptance nationwide
  • Supporting the introduction of innovative, co-branded tourism-linked payment products

The partnership signals a significant step in India’s efforts to build world-class travel experiences while strengthening economic opportunities across the tourism sector.

Human Interest

Guide for Newlyweds: Choosing Home Appliances That Elevate Your Space

Tanisha Cardozo

The ongoing wedding season marks a beautiful beginning for couples setting up their first home together. Beyond functionality, modern homeowners are increasingly focused on creating spaces that reflect their shared personality and aesthetic preferences. Every element of the home, from furniture to fans, fabrics to finishes, contributes to an environment that is both comfortable and visually appealing. Among these, home appliances are emerging as pivotal elements in home design. Choosing appliances that not only offer comfort but also harmonize with interiors can significantly elevate the aesthetics of a home.

Today, appliances are no longer purely functional. Kitchens and living areas, which often occupy pride of place in modern homes, are now designed as open, connected spaces, making it essential for appliances to complement décor rather than stand apart. Even bedrooms, where comfort is paramount, can benefit from appliances that blend seamlessly with furnishings and color schemes. This has inspired a new generation of design-led appliances that marry functionality with style.

Homes inspired by nature can particularly benefit from appliances with wood-finish designs. Air conditioners, refrigerators, and other appliances with natural textures and warm earthy tones complement furniture, flooring, and décor elements to create a harmonious and inviting environment. This approach offers a refreshing alternative to conventional metallic or glossy finishes, adding timeless charm to contemporary interiors.

Colour and finish are also critical in shaping the visual harmony of a home. Neutral tones such as white, beige, grey, or black exude elegance, while pastels and metallics like champagne gold or silver offer sophistication and style. Modern ACs, refrigerators, and washing machines come in a variety of finishes—from glass and steel to wooden textures—allowing couples to coordinate or contrast appliances tastefully with cabinetry, wall shades, or flooring. Thoughtful colour and finish choices can transform appliances into striking focal points that enhance the overall décor.

Minimalist design remains a favorite among young homeowners. Clean lines, clutter-free spaces, and discreet handles help appliances integrate naturally with the architecture, creating serene and timeless interiors. Sleek AC panels, ergonomic washing machine designs, and refined refrigerator doors all contribute to a sense of calm and harmony, enhancing the overall living experience.

Importantly, modern appliances not only elevate aesthetics but also incorporate advanced technologies such as AI, smart controls, and energy-efficient features. These innovations provide comfort, convenience, and improved performance while complementing the visual appeal of the home.

For newlyweds, building a first home is about blending love, design, and comfort. With the right combination of design, colour palette, finishes, and technology, everyday living can become a shared, joyous experience. Thoughtfully designed appliances ensure that great design is not just seen, but felt in every corner of the home, making the journey together even more memorable.

Travel

Goa Tourism Concludes Successful Bahrain Roadshow, Showcasing New Experiences and Stronger GCC Partnerships

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism marked another milestone in its international outreach by successfully concluding its Bahrain Roadshow, which saw an enthusiastic response from travel trade professionals, media representatives, airline partners, and members of the Goan diaspora. The evening was graced by His Excellency Mr. Vinod K. Jacob, Ambassador of India to Bahrain, and key leaders from Goa Tourism including Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism; Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; and Mr. Harish Satlekar, Marketing Manager at GTDC. Together they presented the refreshed tourism positioning of the state, introducing contemporary themes such as Nocto Tourism, Jet-Setting, and CalmCation, brought to life through the newly launched Feels Like Goa campaign that focuses on authenticity, emotion, and the distinctive spirit of Goa.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed that Bahrain continues to be a strategic and promising market for Goa, with the impressive turnout reflecting strong trust and interest in the destination. He emphasized that the new tourism themes aim to resonate with today’s travellers by offering curated experiences that go beyond traditional tourism. The event was further elevated by the presence of notable dignitaries from Bahrain’s travel sector, including Ms. Fatima Ahmed, President of ABTTA; Mr. Hussain Zaman, Country Manager for Gulf Air, the only airline offering direct flights between Goa and Bahrain; and Mr. Noel Fernandes, President of the Young Goans Club. Their participation highlighted the significance of the event for bilateral tourism collaboration.

The audience was treated to captivating Goan folk dance performances, including the iconic dekhni and corridinho, which brought the vibrant cultural heritage of Goa to life. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the immense potential of the Bahrain market and shared that the Feels Like Goa narrative places culture, cuisine, heritage, and immersive experiences at the forefront. Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, highlighted the ongoing upgrades to hospitality infrastructure and the enhancements in residencies and transport services, ensuring improved comfort and reliability for visitors from Bahrain.

One of the major highlights of the evening was the Destination Presentation, featuring specially curated films showcasing Goa’s diverse tourism landscape—from beaches and heritage sites to festive traditions, hinterland attractions, and new experiential initiatives. The program concluded with a lively networking dinner, where trade partners, media, airline representatives, and members of the diaspora engaged with Goa Tourism officials to explore collaborative opportunities and future possibilities for expanding connectivity and tourism offerings.

The Bahrain Roadshow forms a crucial part of Goa Tourism’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the GCC region. With consistent trade engagement, improved air connectivity, and a renewed focus on diversified experiences, Goa continues to position itself as a dynamic, year-round destination for travellers seeking authenticity, culture, and memorable experiences.