Tag: panjim

Travel

Goa Tourism Strengthens Industry Ties at Travel Agents Meet 2026

Tanisha Cardozo

Panjim, 14th February 2026 – The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), a Government of Goa undertaking, organised the Travel Agents Meet 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from the travel and tourism industry to strengthen collaboration and align strategies for promoting Goa as a diverse, experience-led destination. The meet witnessed participation from 55 travel agents, online travel agencies and NTS operators, along with other members of the travel trade in Goa.

The dignitaries present included Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte; Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar; General Managers Gavin Dias, Sachin Gore, Laxmikant Vaigankar and Kapil Paiguinkar, and Deputy General Manager Deepak Narvekar.

Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of collaboration with the travel trade in shaping Goa’s tourism growth story. He stated that travel agents remain long-term partners in promoting Goa beyond its beaches and positioning the state as a holistic, experience-rich destination. He highlighted that the focus remains on balanced tourism growth that benefits local communities, strengthens livelihoods and enhances visitor satisfaction.

Chairman, GTDC Kedar Naik underlined the pivotal role of travel agents as the first point of contact for travellers. He noted that the confidence with which visitors choose Goa is closely linked to the trust they place in travel professionals. He further reiterated that GTDC’s responsibility goes beyond infrastructure and services, extending to creating an ecosystem where tourism supports livelihoods, preserves culture and ensures inclusive growth.

Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar described the Travel Agents Meet as an important platform to align tourism products and services with evolving market needs. He stated that through continued engagement with the travel trade, GTDC aims to strengthen global promotion of Goa Tourism hotels, new tourism services and destination experiences while remaining responsive to changing traveller expectations.

As part of the programme, seven prominent tour operators were felicitated, including representatives of the Tour Operators Association of India, Goa-based online travel agents and NTS operators, in recognition of their contribution to promoting Goa as a preferred destination. Deputy General Manager (Marketing) Deepak Narvekar announced the names of the stakeholders during the felicitation ceremony in the presence of the Minister for Tourism and other dignitaries.

A detailed presentation on GTDC hotels and new tourism and adventure activities was delivered by General Manager Gavin Dias along with Senior Managers Vishesh Naik and Pravin Faldessai. Video films showcasing Goa Tourism, wildlife experiences, AVI Tourism and festivals were screened during the meet, offering attendees a broader perspective on the state’s evolving tourism landscape.

The event also facilitated an interactive exchange between GTDC officials and members of the travel trade on emerging markets, evolving traveller preferences and collaborative promotion opportunities. Goa Tourism’s hotels, new services and curated destination experiences were highlighted with a strong emphasis on strengthening global visibility through strategic trade partnerships.

The Travel Agents Meet 2026 served as a meaningful platform for dialogue, exchange of perspectives and deeper collaboration between Goa Tourism and the travel trade. The engagement reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working closely with industry stakeholders to position Goa as a preferred destination offering authentic, responsible and high-quality tourism experiences.

Events in Goa

Potters Fest Goa Returns with Fifth Edition Celebrating Clay, Craft and Culture

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Potters Fest Goa is set to return this January with its much-anticipated fifth edition, transforming the scenic F.L. Gomes Garden at Campal, Panjim, into a vibrant hub of clay, culture and creativity from January 9 to 11, 2026. The annual festival has grown into a significant celebration of pottery and ceramics, drawing potters, clay and ceramic artists, and pottery enthusiasts from across India for three immersive days of learning, interaction and artistic exchange.

Rooted in Goa’s earthy traditions, this year’s festival places a special spotlight on the shared heritage of Kunbi handloom and pottery. Both crafts, handcrafted from natural materials, reflect simplicity, sustainability and the enduring indigenous culture of the state. By bringing these traditions together, the festival highlights the deep connection between craft, community and cultural memory in Goa.

A unique highlight of this edition will be a specially conceptualised show by Asha Arondekar, Rahila Khan and Asha Vernekar, showcasing 12 western wear outfits and 12 sarees that creatively blend textile and pottery-inspired aesthetics. Scheduled for 5.30 pm on January 9, 2026, the show promises to be a distinctive fusion of fashion and craft heritage.

The festival will also feature daily hands-on workshops, offering visitors an opportunity to engage directly with clay. These include a full-day pottery wheel experience led by Bhisaji Gadekar and a mosaic workshop conducted by Marilyn D’Costa, with on-the-spot registrations available, encouraging spontaneous participation and learning.

Curated and organised by Bipasha Sen Gupta, Potters Fest Goa will be open daily from 11 am to 8.30 pm, creating a welcoming space for artists, families and visitors to explore, create and connect. As it enters its fifth year, the festival continues to strengthen its role as a platform that celebrates craftsmanship, supports artisans and keeps Goa’s rich creative traditions alive while inviting new conversations around contemporary craft practices.

Events in Goa

Malabar Gold & Diamonds Enters Goa with State’s Largest Jewellery Showroom in Panjim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Malabar Gold & Diamonds announced its entry into Goa with the opening of its first showroom in the state at Dayanand Bandodkar Marg, Miramar, Panjim. The new store, which is also the largest jewellery showroom in Goa, marked a significant milestone for the brand as it expanded into a market shaped by strong family traditions, lifestyle-led consumption and consistent domestic and international tourism.

The showroom was inaugurated by Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor in the presence of Filsor Babu, Regional Head – Karnataka, along with senior members of the Malabar Gold & Diamonds management team, guests and well-wishers. Spread across more than 6,000 square feet over a Ground plus one floor layout, the Panjim showroom was designed as a large-format destination store with clearly defined category zones, comfortable browsing spaces and an organised service flow to enhance the customer experience.

Goa represents a distinct jewellery market supported by long-standing local demand and evolving lifestyle preferences. The Panjim showroom reflected Malabar’s strategy of entering high-potential markets with scale and depth, allowing customers to explore and compare a wide range of designs, price points and occasions under one roof.

The store showcased Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ extensive portfolio across bridal, festive and everyday jewellery. Customers could explore traditional wedding collections, heritage-inspired designs and contemporary styles across gold, diamond, platinum and gemstone jewellery, curated to suit diverse tastes and lifestyles. Alongside occasion-led jewellery, the showroom also featured modern everyday designs such as diamond pendants, bracelets, studs, cocktail rings and platinum pieces, offering versatility across age groups.

Commenting on the launch, M. P. Ahammed, Chairman of Malabar Group, said Goa was a market with a deep cultural connection to jewellery and customers who value variety and quality. He noted that the large-format store was created to bring the full breadth of Malabar’s portfolio together while continuing the brand’s focus on transparency, comfort and consistent quality.

As part of the 15th edition of its Brides of India campaign, Malabar Gold & Diamonds extended limited-period offers at the Goa showroom, including up to 30 percent off on making charges on gold, uncut and gemstone jewellery and up to 30 percent off on diamond value, valid until January 18, 2026. The showroom also offered Malabar’s standard customer assurances such as transparent pricing, lifetime maintenance, BIS-hallmarked gold, certified diamonds and detailed product disclosure, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to trust and quality as it entered the Goan market.

#faith, Human Interest

Immaculate Conception Church Glows in Tricolour on Goa Liberation Day

allycaralgoa

The iconic Immaculate Conception Church in Panjim stood resplendent in the colours of the Indian tricolour as Goa celebrated its Liberation Day, creating a powerful visual symbol of freedom, patriotism, and unity.

The historic church, one of Goa’s most recognisable landmarks, was illuminated in saffron, white, and green as part of a special initiative led by Panjim Mayor Rohit Monserrate, Corporation Commissioner Clen Madeira, and Parish Priest Father Cypriano Silva. The illumination drew admiration from residents and visitors alike, turning the church into a glowing tribute to the sacrifices that led to Goa’s liberation.

The tricolour lighting served as a reminder of Goa’s journey to freedom and its proud place in the Indian Union. Locals gathered around the church precincts to witness the striking sight, capturing photographs and sharing moments of pride and reflection.

Speaking on the occasion, organisers highlighted the importance of remembering history while celebrating Goa’s cultural and spiritual heritage. The initiative beautifully blended patriotism with faith, reinforcing the spirit of Liberation Day in the heart of the state capital.

As the church shimmered against the Panjim skyline, it stood not just as a place of worship, but as a beacon of national pride, unity, and gratitude for the freedom Goa enjoys today.

Business

Malabar Gold & Diamonds to Enter Goa with State’s Largest Jewellery Showroom in Panjim

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Business Desk

Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s leading jewellery retailers, is set to enter Goa with the launch of its largest jewellery showroom in the state. Located in Panjim, the upcoming store will mark the brand’s first retail presence in Goa and a significant milestone in its regional expansion journey. The showroom will be inaugurated on December 20, 2025, by Bollywood star Anil Kapoor.

Spread across more than 6,000 square feet over a ground-plus-one-floor layout, the showroom has been designed to offer a refined and spacious shopping environment. It brings together Malabar’s extensive design portfolio under one roof, allowing customers to explore a wide range of jewellery with ease and comfort. The brand’s entry into Goa reflects its strategic focus on strengthening its presence in high-potential, lifestyle-driven markets where customers value choice, quality and transparent retail practices.

Goa presents a unique customer landscape shaped by long-established local families, evolving lifestyle preferences and steady year-round visitor traffic. Malabar’s first showroom in the state has been thoughtfully planned to cater to this diverse audience, offering jewellery for weddings, milestone celebrations, everyday wear and contemporary tastes. The store will feature an expansive selection of gold, diamond, platinum and gemstone jewellery, along with signature Malabar collections curated for bridal, festive and modern occasions.

Speaking ahead of the opening, M. P. Ahammed, Chairman of Malabar Group, said the decision to enter Goa had been made after careful observation of the market. He noted that Goa has a strong cultural relationship with jewellery, a distinct sense of personal style and customers who value trust and longevity in their purchases. Entering the state with the largest jewellery showroom allows Malabar to present the full breadth of what the brand represents, spanning design, craftsmanship and transparency, in a single destination.

With a growing presence across India and international markets, Malabar Gold & Diamonds continues to expand its footprint in key geographies. The upcoming Goa showroom will extend all Malabar Promises, including transparent pricing, fair making charges, lifetime maintenance, detailed product disclosure and quality assurance through BIS-hallmarked gold and certified diamonds, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to responsible and customer-centric jewellery retailing.