Sports

Baale BPS Open 2026 Draws 197 Entries; New Masters 60+ & 100+ Categories Added


The Baale BPS Open 2026 has recorded a total of 197 entries as registrations officially closed ahead of the tournament’s commencement on February 19 at the B.P.S Sports Club in Margao. Now in its third edition, the all-Goa ranking tennis tournament continues to grow in stature, attracting participants across junior, open and veterans’ categories.

Supported by Baale Resort Goa and conducted under the aegis of the Goa State Tennis Association, the tournament reflects the steady expansion of competitive tennis in the state. This year’s entries include 107 male and 26 female participants competing across singles and doubles formats.

The junior categories have drawn 61 entries across under-10, under-14 and under-18 boys’ and girls’ singles events, signalling strong grassroots engagement and continued interest in the sport among young players. The open division has received 95 entries across men’s and women’s singles, men’s and ladies’ doubles and mixed doubles, underscoring the competitive depth within Goa’s tennis circuit.

The veterans’ segment has recorded 41 entries, with players competing in Masters 45+ Singles, Masters 60+ Singles and Masters 100+ Doubles. The introduction of the Masters 60+ Singles and Masters 100+ Doubles categories marks a significant expansion this year, offering senior players additional competitive platforms while recognising their sustained contribution to the sport.

The tournament will be played over 11 days at the B.P.S Sports Club courts in Margao, bringing together emerging talent and experienced competitors in one of Goa’s most anticipated state ranking tennis events. As the countdown begins, the Baale BPS Open 2026 promises high-quality matches, sporting excellence and a celebration of tennis across generations.

Events in Goa

Parikrama Announces Annual Awards for Parikrama 0.8


Parikrama, Goa’s flagship youth knowledge and cultural platform curated by Knowledge Terminus, has announced its annual awards to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to education, culture, and the Konkani movement.

For the 2026 edition, Parikrama will confer three distinguished awards during the opening ceremony of Parikrama 0.8, scheduled on February 7, 2026, at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao.

The 8th Dr. Madhavi Sardesai Puraskar will be presented to Mr. Vishwapratap Pawar, a faculty member at Carmel Women’s College, in recognition of her dedicated service in academics and youth mentorship.

The 3rd Eknath Naik Maandkar Puraskar will be conferred on Mr. Chetan Khedekar, a folk expert and State Youth Award winner, for his remarkable contribution towards preserving and promoting Goan folk traditions.

The 2nd Nityanand Naik Sanghtak Puraskar will be awarded to Mr. Prashant Kamath, a senior Konkani karyakarta, for his lifelong commitment to strengthening the Konkani language and cultural movement.

Each award carries a cash prize of ₹25,000, along with a maanpatra and memento.

Through these awards, Parikrama continues its tradition of recognising grassroots changemakers and cultural torchbearers who inspire young minds and contribute meaningfully to Goa’s intellectual and cultural ecosystem.

Parikrama 0.8 will be held on February 7 and 8, 2026, featuring two days of performances and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Events in Goa

Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2026 Opens in Margao, Celebrating Goa’s Culinary Heritage and Cultural Diversity


Written by Intern Rency Gomes ||Team Allycaral 

Margao, January 23, 2026: The Margao Cricket Club at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Stadium came alive on Thursday evening as the Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2026 commenced, marking the beginning of a three-day celebration dedicated to Goa’s rich culinary heritage and diverse cultural traditions. The festival brings together authentic flavours, traditional art forms and contemporary performances, offering a shared cultural experience for residents and visitors alike.


The festival was inaugurated in the presence of Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte; Minister for PWD and Captain of Ports Digambar Kamat; Chairman, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Kedar J. Naik; MLA of Navelim Constituency Ulhas Tuenkar; Chairperson of Margao Municipal Council Damodar Shirodkar; Director of Tourism Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, along with other dignitaries.

The occasion also saw the felicitation of prominent local personalities including Shubham Naik, Nilesh Shirodkar, Harish Deulker, Sudha Kudalkar and Vishwas Chari for their notable contributions to the fields of cuisine, art and culture.

Addressing the gathering, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said that this was the second Food and Cultural Festival being organised in Margao and highlighted Goa’s diverse culinary traditions. He noted that from North to South Goa, travellers can experience a wide range of flavours, making the State a unique destination for food lovers.

He further stated that Goa, as a creative capital, could also be regarded as a culinary capital due to the richness of its cuisine. Emphasising the State’s focus on regenerative tourism, he said that all stalls at the festival are operated by Goans, including self-help groups offering home-made products. He added that the festival also provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent, ensuring inclusivity and community participation.

PWD Minister and Captain of Ports Digambar Kamat observed that tourism continues to play a vital role in Goa’s economic growth and said that festivals such as the Goa Food & Cultural Festival add vibrancy to the State’s tourism calendar and contribute to increased visitor footfall.

GTDC Chairman Kedar J. Naik recalled earlier editions of the festival and stated that it continues to benefit self-help groups and local communities by offering a platform to showcase authentic Goan delicacies while preserving cultural traditions. He also highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for folk dancers and musicians.

MLA Ulhas Tuenkar said that the festival is organised with the objective of strengthening local livelihoods, with the majority of stalls run by Goans and self-help groups, enabling them to earn through their skills while celebrating Goa’s food and culture.

Director of Tourism Kedar Naik described the festival as a celebration of flavours, traditions and the vibrant spirit of Goa, and expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the event a success. He invited residents and visitors to experience the festivities over the coming days.

The opening day featured cultural performances by the Kanta Gaude Troupe, followed by live performances by Anson, Chelsea & Jeliska Trio, Sonia Shirsat with her Band, and LYNX, setting an energetic tone for the festival.

Alongside cultural performances, the festival features a wide range of stalls offering authentic Goan cuisine, traditional delicacies, local crafts and handmade products, providing valuable exposure to local artisans and entrepreneurs.

The Goa Food & Cultural Festival 2026, part of the Department of Tourism’s ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ initiative, will continue until January 25, 2026, with a diverse line-up of cultural programmes and culinary showcases planned over the next two days.

Events in Goa

Child’s Play India Foundation Unites Young Voices and Orchestras in Festive Musical Evening


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Child’s Play India Foundation, in association with Clube Harmonia de Margao, organised Prelude to Christmas, a musical evening that brought together young voices and orchestral performances in a festive celebration of music and community. The event featured the Child’s Play Chorus from the Margao branch, comprising over 30 performers led by Vanessa Menezes, whose energetic and heartfelt renditions were warmly received by the audience.

The choir performed a mix of contemporary and traditional pieces, including popular songs such as Eye of the Tiger, Roar, and You’ve Got a Friend in Me, alongside beloved Christmas carols like Hark the Herald and Silent Night. Their confident performances and youthful enthusiasm drew enthusiastic applause and reflected the growing interest in choral singing among children in the region.

The evening also featured Camerata Goa, the foundation’s orchestra conducted by Dr. Luis Dias. The ensemble presented a selection of classical carols including Coventry Carol, What Child Is This, In Dulce Jubilo, and Go Tell It on the Mountain, adding depth and richness to the festive programme. Camerata Goa later went on to perform at the Museum of Christian Art’s Carols on the Hill, followed by the Child’s Play Chorus, further extending the foundation’s presence in Goa’s festive music calendar.

Reflecting on the foundation’s expanding choral initiatives, Dr. Luis Dias shared that choral projects are currently active in Margao and Saligao, with plans to begin a new project in Panjim in the coming year. He highlighted the enthusiasm of both children and parents, noting that the Margao choir has already delivered five performances in recent months. Emphasising inclusivity, he added that the choral projects are open to all and aim to encourage more young people to experience the joy and beauty of singing together.

Business

Goa Sparkles as C. Krishniah Chetty’s Jewellery Exhibition Lights Up the Diwali Season


Goa, 10 October 2025: Goa is glowing with festive brilliance as C. Krishniah Chetty Group of Jewellers (CKC), one of India’s most prestigious jewellery houses with a 155-year heritage, brings its dazzling Jewellery Showcase to the sunshine state.

The exhibition opened at Hotel Fidalgo, Panjim (10–13 Oct) and continues at Hotel Nanutel, Margao (15–16 Oct), marking yet another successful year of CKC’s bond with Goa’s luxury market.

The inauguration was graced by businesswoman and professional autocross racer Ashrafi ShetDesai Gaikwad, who praised CKC’s fusion of tradition and innovation. “It’s wonderful to see a brand with such a long history bring something so fresh to Goa. Their designs feel like a collaboration between heritage and the new generation’s sense of style,” she said.

Visitors are enchanted by collections that embody timeless artistry and innovation — from glowing citrines and regal emeralds to ethically crafted lab-grown diamonds. Among the highlights are:

  • The Hoysala Collection – celebrating the architectural grandeur of ancient temples
  • The Pharaoh Collection – inspired by the mystique of Ancient Egypt
  • crash.club™️ Lab-Grown Diamonds – a bold statement in sustainable luxury

Adding festive sparkle, visitors enjoy exclusive Diwali offers:
💍 2% off on Silver Jewellery
💍 4% off on Gold Jewellery
💍 6% off on Diamond Jewellery
💍 9% off on diamond jewellery worth ₹18.69 lakhs & above

Additionally, Rare Scents™️ fragrances and 925 Silver Jewellery starting at ₹599 are part of the celebration, with proceeds supporting rhinoceros conservation, reinforcing CKC’s commitment to ethical luxury.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Gopal Singh, Store Manager, said, “Goa has always been special for us. The warmth and enthusiasm of Goans make this exhibition truly memorable every year.”

For over a century and a half, C. Krishniah Chetty Group has defined artistry, innovation, and ethics in jewellery. This Diwali, their Goa showcase isn’t just an exhibition — it’s a celebration of legacy, luxury, and light.