Social

True Strength of Nation Lies in Character of Its Citizens: Commodore Chauhan at Aashiyana Institute Republic Day Celebration


VASCO, Goa: Aashiyana Institute celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day with enthusiasm, pride, and patriotic spirit at its Zari, Zuarinagar, Sancoale campus. The occasion was graced by Commodore Pavan Chauhan, VSM (Retd.), Indian Navy, as the Chief Guest, along with school management, parents, teachers, and students.

The programme commenced with the unfurling of the National Flag, a ceremonial salute, and the singing of the National Anthem, filling the campus with unity and reverence for the Constitution of India.

In his address, Commodore Chauhan highlighted that the true strength of a nation lies not in weapons or economic might, but in the character of its citizens. He encouraged students to be honest, disciplined, kind, and responsible, and to serve the nation with integrity and a strong moral compass.

A special moment was the unveiling of a school portrait gifted by parent Mr. Abdul Gani, symbolizing the bond between the school and its parent community. The Chief Guest, along with school dignitaries, unveiled the artwork.

The cultural programme featured performances across all grades:

  • Primary students presented a soulful patriotic song and a skit on Fundamental Rights.
  • Pre-primary students delighted the audience with a patriotic melody.
  • Senior students showcased Goa’s cultural identity and democratic history through a programme on Asmitai Dis (Goa’s Opinion Poll Day).

Students from Classes 4 and 5, who participated in the Inter-School Science Fair organised by the Board of Innovative Education earlier this month, were felicitated for their curiosity, creativity, and scientific spirit.

In his address, Mr. Shoaib Shaikh, Officiating Headmaster, stressed that Republic Day reminds everyone to uphold the Constitution, respect diversity, and nurture children to become responsible citizens.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks and the National Anthem, leaving attendees with renewed patriotism and civic responsibility.

Events in Goa

First-Ever Zaddachem Fest Brings Pilar Together in a Celebration of Unity and Culture


Written by Intern Swara Bodke || Team Allycaral

History was created in Pilar on Republic Day 2026 as Clube Marius Festacar hosted the first-ever Zaddachem Fest (Festival of Trees) at the Milroc Colina complex. Curated by renowned linguist and cultural curator Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, the festival brought together Goans and visitors from across India and beyond for a day rooted in heritage, nature, music, food, and community bonding.

Deeply anchored in Goan values of ekvott (unity) and inclusivity, Zaddachem Fest stood out as a people-centric celebration. With no sponsors or chief guests, the festival ensured that the spotlight remained firmly on collective participation, shared heritage, and community spirit.

The day began with a heritage and nature walk led by Dr. Suresh Kunkalikar, Dean of the Goa College of Agriculture, along with noted horticulturist Miguel Braganza. Participants were introduced to medicinal plants and herbs growing within the complex, highlighting the importance of traditional knowledge and biodiversity. This was followed by a Kadha workshop conducted by Dr. Ornelas, where she demonstrated traditional herbal brewing methods and explained the health benefits of local remedies used for colds and coughs.

Cultural performances added warmth and vibrancy to the festival, with music by the Barreto Brothers, the D’sa family, Russell Barreto, and Linda Diniz Braganza. A highlight of the day was the flagship coconut shell dance led by Dr. Ornelas, which drew enthusiastic participation and applause from the gathering.

Senior journalist Prakash Kamat hosted an engaging Bolcaoancheo Gozalli, joined by coordinator Avelino D’sa and resource persons Sabina De Cunha, Rama Parsekar, and Rosita Heredia. The session encouraged meaningful conversations, storytelling, and intergenerational exchange.

Following a traditional homemade Goan lunch, the programme continued with awareness sessions by the Goa Police on cybercrime, talks by local health officers on healthy eating habits, and a presentation on garbage management involving residents of the Milroc Colina complex.

Speaking about the event, Festacar Marius Fernandes said that Zaddachem Fest was not merely a celebration but a reminder of the unity and shared values that bind Goans together, whether in Goa or abroad. He added that Milroc Colina’s lush gardens and open spaces provided the perfect setting for the festival’s historic first edition.

Serving as a cultural bridge, Zaddachem Fest encouraged participants to reconnect with their roots, language, and traditions while embracing Goa’s rich multicultural identity, leaving behind a strong message of unity, sustainability, and community-driven celebration.

Human Interest

Goan Artists Shine at Republic Day Parade as Vinayak Decorators’ Assam & Himachal Tableaux Dazzle Kartavya Path


Goa’s artistic legacy found national recognition at the 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path, as the stunning tableaux of Assam and Himachal Pradesh, designed and fully decorated by Vinayak Decorators, emerged as visual highlights of the celebrations.

Conceptualised and executed by a team of Goan artists led by Siddesh Dessai, owner of Vinayak Decorators, the floats beautifully captured the cultural soul and heritage of the two states. Their intricate detailing, vibrant colours and storytelling artistry drew praise from spectators, officials and dignitaries attending the parade.

The parade, held under the themes “Svatantrata Ka Mantra: Vande Mataram” and “Samriddhi Ka Mantra: Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” showcased 30 cultural tableaux from states, Union Territories and central ministries. Assam’s tableau highlighted the state’s renowned Asharikandi terracotta craftsmanship, while Himachal Pradesh’s display celebrated its identity as “Dev Bhoomi,” portraying rich spiritual traditions and cultural vibrancy.

The event was presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior cabinet ministers and distinguished international guests in attendance. The chief guests included Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Beyond the cultural splendour, the Republic Day Parade featured an impressive display of India’s military prowess, ceremonial gun salutes, marching contingents and a colourful procession of performers — reinforcing the nation’s unity, diversity and creative excellence.

For Goa, the recognition of Vinayak Decorators’ work stands as a proud moment, highlighting the state’s contribution to India’s cultural storytelling on one of the country’s most prestigious platforms.

Human Interest

Proud Moment for Goa as Vinayak Decorators Earns Two Republic Day Tableaux Honours in Delhi


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s celebrated event company, Vinayak Decorators, has etched its name on the national stage by being awarded two prestigious tableaux projects for the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. The company successfully executed the Assam tableau at the iconic Kartavya Path and another for Arunachal Pradesh at Bharat Parv, marking a remarkable achievement for Goan creative talent.

This honour reflects the dedication, innovation, and professional excellence of Vinayak Decorators, a name synonymous with large-scale event design and execution. Under the leadership of owner Siddesh Dessai, the company has consistently delivered high-quality work, and this recognition further cements its reputation beyond state boundaries.

Being selected for Republic Day tableaux is considered one of the highest honours in event and cultural presentation, as the celebrations are watched by millions across the country and internationally. Vinayak Decorators’ involvement highlights Goa’s growing presence in national-level cultural showcases.

The achievement stands not just as a success for the company, but as a proud moment for Goa, showcasing how local talent continues to shine on India’s grandest ceremonial platforms.

Automobiles

Renault Confirms the Return of the Iconic Duster — Set for Republic Day 2026 Launch


Renault India has officially confirmed what SUV enthusiasts across the country have been waiting for — the return of the iconic Renault Duster. The much-loved SUV will be unveiled on Republic Day, January 26, 2026, marking an important milestone in Renault’s journey in India.

The new Duster will be the first product under Renault’s ambitious International Game Plan 2027, a global strategy aimed at strengthening the brand’s presence in key markets including India. The upcoming model is expected to blend the Duster’s original rugged DNA with a contemporary design, advanced technology, and improved performance.

First launched in India in 2012, the Duster changed the game for compact SUVs, combining off-road capability with urban comfort and affordability. Its strong build, reliable performance, and timeless appeal helped it earn a loyal customer base. Over the years, the Duster became a household name, admired by families and adventure seekers alike.

Renault has sold over 200,000 units of the Duster in India and reached 1.8 million customers globally, making it one of the brand’s most successful models to date. The upcoming version is expected to uphold this legacy while embracing modern design language, upgraded interiors, and efficient engine options.

The decision to unveil the new Duster on Republic Day 2026 is both symbolic and strategic, underlining Renault’s renewed commitment to the Indian market. With a focus on innovation, style, and sustainability, the all-new Duster promises to bring back the charm of an SUV that once defined its segment.

As excitement builds among auto enthusiasts, all eyes are on Renault to see how the Duster returns to reclaim its crown in the Indian SUV space.

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