Tag: Portugal

Goan Personalities

Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, Portugal

Tanisha Cardozo

Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo recently visited the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima in Portugal, one of the most significant and revered pilgrimage sites in the world. Their visit was a moment of spiritual reflection and devotion at a place that stands as a symbol of faith, peace, and divine grace.

Located in the quiet town of Fátima, the sanctuary marks the site where three shepherd children witnessed the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1917. Since then, it has become a global center of faith, attracting millions of pilgrims every year who come to seek solace, healing, and spiritual renewal.

During their visit, Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo offered prayers at the Chapel of the Apparitions and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. Immersed in an atmosphere of reverence and calm, they reflected on the timeless message of hope and compassion that continues to resonate through the story of Fátima.

Their pilgrimage was a moment of connection with a centuries-old tradition of faith, emphasizing the importance of spiritual grounding and gratitude. The visit serves as a reminder that faith transcends borders and that places of devotion like Fátima continue to inspire hearts around the world with their message of peace, belief, and divine love.

Human Interest

Lisbon: A Meeting of Rivers, Roads and Roots – A Story by Marius Festakar

Tanisha Cardozo

Sailing into Lisbon on my cruise felt like entering a living history book. As the ship glided up the broad Tagus River, the city revealed itself — church spires, tiled façades, and the iconic sweep of the 25 de Abril Bridge. It reminded me that, like Goa, Lisbon treats the sea not as a boundary but a bridge — one that connects cultures, faiths, and communities across oceans.

Walking through the Alfama quarter, I was overcome by a sense of familiarity. The winding cobbled streets, azulejo-tiled buildings, and the haunting strains of fado evoked the same nostalgia I’ve experienced during Goa’s festas. Standing at the Castelo de São Jorge, gazing over the red rooftops spilling toward the river, I thought of the ships that once sailed east — many bound for Goa — shaping our cuisine, architecture, and shared traditions.

Transport in Lisbon was not just functional; it was part of the story. I climbed aboard the yellow Tram 28 — its wooden frame squealing as it negotiated narrow alleys and steep hills, brushing past miradouros and historic churches. Later, I switched to a tuk-tuk — a playful, modern twist on mobility. The driver, lively and knowledgeable, pointed out secret viewpoints and offered stories that felt deeply personal. In those moments, I saw Lisbon’s two faces: one grounded in heritage, the other moving forward with energy.

One of the places that touched me deeply was the Church of St. Anthony, built near the saint’s birthplace. St. Anthony is beloved in both Lisbon and Goa. We celebrate his feast with music, prayer, and devotion back home. Standing in that church, I was reminded that traditions travel — just as I’ve carried stories, songs, and festivals between Lisbon and Goa.

For over 25 years, through 103 people’s festivals across Goa, I’ve worked to showcase our community’s resilience and joy. In Lisbon, I saw a kindred spirit — a city that respects its past while embracing the present. Sipping a pastel de nata with a bold bica, I thought of how sharing a Goan Doce de Grao at our festivals is more than hospitality — it’s a cultural handshake, a bite-sized story.

As the ship pulled away at sunset, Lisbon did not feel like a mere stop on the map. It felt like a mirror to my own path as Marius Festakar — a journey rooted in tradition, shaped by the sea, and driven by a deep desire to keep our heritage alive, accessible, and inclusive.

Films

“I Am Nothing” Documentary on Vamona Navelcar Premieres to Acclaim in Lisbon

Tanisha Cardozo

I Am Nothing (2025), a deeply moving documentary chronicling the life of acclaimed Goan artist Vamona Navelcar, premiered to a captivated audience on September 5th at the prestigious Museu Do Oriente in Lisbon, Portugal. Directed by Ronak Kamat, with an original score by Ashley Fernandes and produced by Gurudas Kamat under 99 Petals MediaWorld, the hour-long film delivered an emotionally rich and visually arresting portrayal of an artist who defied borders and time.

With over 50 attendees filling the auditorium, the film was received with resounding success, sparking heartfelt responses, particularly from those who knew Navelcar during his transformative years in Mozambique and Portugal. The intimate setting of the museum, coupled with the personal and reflective nature of the film, created an atmosphere of reverence and nostalgia.

The documentary masterfully weaves together archival footage, personal letters, interviews, and artwork to paint a full picture of Navelcar—not just as an artist, but as a philosopher, teacher, and spiritual seeker. His journey from Goa to Mozambique, and eventually to Portugal, mirrors the complex intersections of art, exile, and identity, all of which are explored in the film with empathy and visual grace.

The Lisbon screening marks a significant milestone for the project, offering a meaningful return to a city that was once Navelcar’s creative and emotional home. The event drew not only art lovers and film enthusiasts but also members of the Goan and Lusophone communities, many of whom found the experience deeply personal.

I Am Nothing stands as a cinematic tribute to an artist who remained committed to his values and vision, often at great personal cost. The film’s title, taken from one of Navelcar’s own philosophical reflections, echoes throughout the narrative, offering viewers not just a biography, but a meditation on humility, resilience, and artistic truth.

With the Lisbon premiere complete, I Am Nothing is expected to continue its festival journey and wider public release, bringing Vamona Navelcar’s story to new audiences across the globe.

Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez Are Officially Engaged! 💍

allycaralgoa

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most celebrated footballers in the world, has taken a big step off the field — he’s engaged! The Portuguese superstar proposed to his longtime partner, Georgina Rodriguez, and she joyfully said YES.

The couple has been together since 2016, building a life filled with love, travel, and family moments. Over the years, Georgina has been a constant presence by Ronaldo’s side, supporting his career across clubs in Spain, Italy, England, and now Saudi Arabia.

The engagement announcement has taken social media by storm, with fans across the globe sending their warm wishes to the couple. Known for their glamorous lifestyle and heartfelt family moments, Ronaldo and Georgina’s upcoming wedding will no doubt be one of the most talked-about celebrity events of the year.

While no wedding date has been confirmed yet, excitement is already building among fans eager to see this power couple say “I do.”

Entertainment

International Fadista Sonia Shirsat Receives Prestigious Goan of the Year Award

allycaralgoa

Renowned International Fadista, Sonia Shirsat, has been bestowed with the esteemed Goan of the Year award by Lokmat. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Sonia’s tireless efforts in promoting and preserving the traditional Portuguese music genre, Fado, in Goa.


Sonia’s journey with music began in her hometown of Goa, where she discovered her love for Fado. With unwavering dedication and passion, she mastered the genre, eventually becoming a celebrated International Fadista.


The Goan of the Year award is not only a personal achievement for Sonia but also a tribute to her community, teachers, mentors, and audience who have supported her throughout her journey. This recognition underscores the power of music to transcend borders, evoke emotions, and connect hearts.


Sonia’s commitment to keeping Fado alive is more resolute than ever. She aims to continue teaching, performing, and ensuring that the next generation carries this beautiful tradition forward.


“Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. This award is for all of us, for Goa, and for the timeless power of music.”


Sonia Shirsat is a renowned International Fadista from Goa, India. She has performed globally, promoting and preserving the traditional Portuguese music genre, Fado. Sonia’s music is a testament to her passion, dedication, and love for Fado.


Lokmat’s Goan of the Year award is a prestigious recognition that honors outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to Goa’s culture, society, and economy.