Tag: Panaji

Business

Panaji Unveils ‘The Riverfront’, Its Largest Outdoor Riverside Venue

Tanisha Cardozo

The historic city of Panaji has added a striking new landmark to its cultural landscape with the launch of ‘The Riverfront’, now touted as the state capital’s largest outdoor venue. Stretching 700 feet along the banks of the scenic Mandovi River, the venue offers sweeping sunset views and the capacity to host up to 1,000 guests.

Located near the erstwhile Mandovi Hotel, a well-known city landmark, The Riverfront is designed to host a wide range of events, including weddings, social celebrations, corporate gatherings, pop-up events, exhibitions and cultural evenings. The venue features a private access river jetty, modern infrastructure, dedicated service areas and parking space for 55 vehicles.

Developed by the Bengaluru-based MRG Group, the project reflects the group’s growing footprint in Goa’s hospitality and real estate sectors. The architectural design remains understated, allowing event planners the flexibility to shape the ambience according to their needs while maintaining harmony with Panaji’s architectural and cultural character.

Dr K. Prakash Shetty, Chairman of the MRG Group, said the intention was to create a space that blends seamlessly with Panaji’s identity. He emphasised that the Mandovi is central to the city’s character and that the venue was envisioned to complement its presence rather than overshadow it.

The MRG Group owns several hospitality brands across India, including The Goldfinch Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, along with other business ventures. With The Riverfront, Panaji strengthens its position as a vibrant destination for large-scale events set against one of Goa’s most picturesque backdrops.

Events in Goa

MOG Sunday Talk: Flex Banners, ‘Airbnb Aesthetic’ and Goa’s Disappearing Traditional Street Lettering

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji’s streetscape is undergoing a visible transformation as digital flex signages inspired by what many describe as an ‘Airbnb aesthetic’ steadily replace traditional hand-painted boards across the city and other Goan towns. The shift has resulted in streets that increasingly resemble those in mainstream urban India, with local character giving way to a standardised visual language. Alongside this aesthetic change, traditional sign painters are quietly disappearing, and with them, a long-standing craft tradition.

This evolving urban landscape formed the backdrop of a recent MOG Sunday session on Indian Street Lettering held at the Museum of Goa. Award-winning typeface designer and lettering artist Pooja Saxena used the occasion to draw attention to Goa’s street lettering as a living visual archive of its architectural and cultural history.

Saxena warned that the proliferation of digital flex signs, typically LED banner displays stretched over metal frames, is creating an ‘Airbnb aesthetic’ in which cities begin to look indistinguishable from one another. As she explained, when walking through such spaces, it becomes difficult to identify a city by its visual cues. The loss, she stressed, is not merely aesthetic but economic as well. When hand-painted signs disappear, so do the livelihoods attached to them. For Saxena, these signs should not survive only as museum exhibits; their true meaning lies in remaining functional, expressive elements within everyday public spaces.

Discussing her book project India Street Lettering: A Journey Through Typographic Craft & Culture, Saxena observed that lettering styles often reflect the historical period in which neighbourhoods developed. In Panaji, she pointed out, Art Deco and Art Nouveau influences in signage align closely with the city’s architectural heritage. Goa’s visual identity, she noted, is shaped by distinctive elements such as azulejos, woodwork and three-dimensional lettering. In conversation with Goa-based visual artist Avani Tanya, she explained how context shapes the way design elements are interpreted, while the coastal climate affects materials, making frequent repainting both necessary and a visible sign of ongoing care.

According to Saxena, street lettering extends beyond functionality; it operates as a gestural expression shaped by the human hand. Reflecting on increasing reliance on digital tools, she admitted concerns about losing touch with manual craft and handwriting. Her book focuses on letterforms created through analogue techniques, including hand painting and specialised processes, underscoring the intentionality and skill embedded in these forms.

Saxena expressed hope that her work would inspire people to look more closely at their local marketplaces and public spaces. By encouraging greater attention to everyday lettering, she believes citizens may begin to appreciate its cultural significance and advocate for its preservation. As Goa navigates the balance between modernisation and heritage, the conversation around street lettering raises broader questions about how cities can retain their identity while adapting to changing times.

Events in Goa

Goa Welcomes the World as Carnaval 2026 is Flagged Off in Panaji

Tanisha Cardozo

The capital city of Panaji transformed into a dazzling spectacle of colour, music and celebration as Goa Carnaval 2026 was officially flagged off on February 14. The grand ceremony was led by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, alongside Member of Parliament Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, Chairman GTDC Kedar J Naik, CCP Mayor Shri Rohit Monserrate, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik and Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, among other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that the festival reflects Goa’s inclusive and welcoming spirit, uniting people across cultures through celebration. He highlighted that such events not only strengthen the State’s cultural identity but also enhance its global visibility as a vibrant tourism destination. The strong turnout of international visitors, many attending for the first time, reaffirmed Goa’s growing appeal in experiential and cultural tourism.

Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte described Carnaval as a living expression of Goa’s heritage and community spirit. He noted that the festival plays a vital role in promoting Goa beyond its beaches, spotlighting its traditions, artistic talent and immersive cultural experiences while supporting local performers and communities.

The ceremonial flag-off witnessed an overwhelming public response, with streets lined by residents and tourists from across India and abroad. The atmosphere shifted instantly as King Momo made his grand entrance, declaring the start of days filled with revelry and joy. His traditional entourage set the tone for the procession that followed.

Elaborately designed floats rolled through the heart of Panaji, each narrating stories of Goa’s rich past and contemporary aspirations. Themes ranged from cultural heritage to social awareness and festive traditions. Traditional folk performances blended seamlessly with high-energy musical acts, transforming the city into a moving theatre of rhythm and colour.

Behind the scenes, the Department of Tourism ensured enhanced infrastructure, crowd management systems and visitor facilitation measures to provide a safe and seamless experience for all attendees. The coordinated efforts of local artists, cultural groups and multiple stakeholders were evident in the precision and vibrancy of the parade.

As the celebrations continue across Margao, Vasco, Mapusa and Morjim in the coming days, Carnaval 2026 promises to carry its festive momentum across the State. More than just a parade, it stands as a cultural statement — reinforcing Goa’s position as a welcoming, diverse and globally admired destination where tradition and modernity dance together on the streets.

Events in Goa

Grand Curtain Raiser in Porvorim Sets the Stage for Goa Carnaval 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

The much-awaited Goa Carnaval 2026 commenced on a vibrant note this evening with a spectacular curtain raiser held at Porvorim, setting the tone for five days of colour, music and celebration across the State. The enthusiastic gathering of residents, artists and visitors transformed the town into a lively canvas of Goan culture and festive cheer.

The parade was flagged off by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Chairman GTDC Kedar J Naik, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar and other senior officials. The evening underscored a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, and the Porvorim Carnaval Committee to deliver a celebration rooted in heritage and responsibility.

A defining highlight of the evening was the ceremonial proclamation by King Momo, Shri Cedric Da Costa, who led the procession in a traditional bullock cart, invoking the spirit of unity, joy and responsible celebration. The revival of this earlier custom paid homage to the legacy of musician Timoteo Fernandes, who played a pivotal role in reintroducing Carnaval in 1965 and popularising the arrival of King Momo in this distinctive manner.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots while ensuring that the younger generation experiences the festival in its authentic form. He also highlighted that this year’s curtain raiser was consciously organised with certain route restrictions in place due to traffic regulations, ensuring respect for commuters and residents. Notably, the celebration avoided large mechanised floats and fuel-driven vehicles, reflecting a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach.

Chairman GTDC Shri Kedar J Naik described Carnaval as a reflection of Goa’s unique cultural journey shaped by centuries of rich traditions and global influences. He noted that the festival brings together communities across faiths and regions, showcasing Goa’s vibrant artistic expression through music, dance and creative performances.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik remarked that the curtain raiser in Porvorim set the rhythm for the grand festivities that will unfold across the State. The evening featured enthusiastic participation from local cultural groups, with performances that filled the air with rhythm, colour and excitement.

The celebration now moves to Panaji on February 14 for the grand float parade, followed by festivities in Margao on February 15, Vasco da Gama on February 16 and Mapusa and Morjim on February 17. As celebrations unfold across these towns, Goa stands poised to experience one of its most cherished cultural festivals in full splendour, blending nostalgia, sustainability and collective joy.

Books & Literature

Launch of John Aguiar’s Konkani Poetry Collection “Thembe” on February 28 in Panaji

Swara Bodke

Written by Intern Swara Bodke || Team Allycaral

PANAJI, GOA – Writer, poet and lyricist John Aguiar is set to release his latest collection of Konkani poems, titled Thembe (Drops), further strengthening his contribution to contemporary Konkani literature.
The book release ceremony will be held on February 28, 2026, at 3.30 pm at Shenai Goembab Sabhaghar, Goa Konkani Akademi (BSNL Building), 5th floor, Patto, Panaji. The book will be released at the hands of Dr Purnanand Chari, Chairman of the Konkani Akademi. Smt Aparna Garudi will speak on the book, while Shri Ramesh Ghadi, Vice Chairman of the Konkani Akademi, will attend as Guest of Honour. Poet Prakash Naik will be a special guest at the event.
The function is organised by Ugtem Molob. Shri Vivek Pissurlekar, President of Ugtem Molob, has appealed to writers, poets and literature enthusiasts to attend the function in large numbers.
John Aguiar is widely recognised for his versatility, writing across Romi and Devanagari Konkani, English and Marathi. His works are known for their deep engagement with Goan culture, social realities and the subtleties of everyday life.


A retired officer from the Government of Goa’s Department of Information and Publicity, Aguiar brings a journalist’s clarity and precision to his creative writing. Beyond literature, he is also a well-known lyricist, with several of his songs regularly aired on All India Radio.
His published works span multiple genres. His poetry collections include Paulam, Gulmohar, Sanz and Olyo Yadi, which won the 2017 Konkani Bhasha Mandal’s Rock Barretto Literary Award. His essay collections include Offside (English) and Mandovichea Dege Voilean (Roman Konkani), while his dramatic works include Sonvgam, a collection of one-act plays in Roman Konkani.
One of the early milestones in his career was the publication of the booklet Jinn in 1982–83, which was released by noted writer, poet and lyricist Advocate Uday Bhembre, then President of the Konkani Bhasha Mandal, at Chowgule College during Aguiar’s student days.