Saligao, January 17, 2026: An organ donation information desk was set up at a blood donation camp organised by Lourdes Convent High School, Saligao, in collaboration with Loving Hearts Goa and the North Goa District Hospital (Asilo) blood bank.
The initiative was led by Mr Gabriel Pereira, an Organ Donation Ambassador with the MOHAN Foundation. The blood donation camp was sponsored by Peppy’s Goan Kitchen Caterers, Porvorim, and was held from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.
The camp was formally inaugurated by the Headmistress of Lourdes Convent High School, Sr. Antonette Pereira, who lit the traditional lamp and led a welcome song, inviting parents to participate in the programme.
Loving Hearts Goa is a voluntary group founded by Mr Ranjit Rodrigues and comprises regular blood donors who organise blood donation camps across Goa. Mr Mark D’Souza serves as the President of the group, Mr Gabriel Pereira as Secretary, and Mrs Sanyukta Gawde as Treasurer. At every camp organised by the group, an organ donation information desk is set up to raise awareness on the importance of organ donation.
During the camp, Mr Pereira distributed approximately 36 informational flyers to donors, addressed frequently asked questions related to organ donation, and highlighted the importance of pledging to donate organs. The flyers also included a QR code enabling individuals to easily pledge as organ donors. As a result of this outreach, four individuals pledged to become organ donors.
At the conclusion of the event, Mr Pereira expressed his gratitude to Sr. Antonette Pereira, Mr Ranjit Rodrigues and Mr Mark D’Souza for their continued support of organ donation awareness initiatives and for their collaboration with the MOHAN Foundation.
The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully hosted Goa Deepotsav 2025, a two-day celebration that illuminated Porvorim, Saligao, and Mapusa with festive cheer, music, and cultural splendour. The event brought together Goans from all walks of life to celebrate Diwali through art, tradition, and togetherness, reflecting the essence of Goa’s cultural unity.
The first-ever edition of Deepotsav in Mapusa, held at the Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, witnessed vibrant community participation and an impressive turnout. The event featured engaging contests such as the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition, cooking and fugdi contests, and an energetic cultural showcase. The evening highlight, Rhythm of Lights, mesmerized audiences with performances that beautifully portrayed Goa’s cultural diversity.
Among the dignitaries present were Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker & MLA, Mapusa, Shri Joshua De Souza, Chairperson of Mapusa Municipal Council Smt Priya Mishal, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Dhiraj Vagle, Dy. General Manager (Marketing/Hotels), GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar, Asst. Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, councillors, and former councillors.
In his address, Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that the Goa Beyond Beaches initiative, launched in 2022, aims to take tourism to the heart of local communities while empowering women and youth through cultural participation. He announced that Deepotsav will be celebrated annually in Mapusa to showcase Goa’s cultural richness and festive unity.
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming response to Deepotsav 2025, noting that the festival embodied Goa’s true spirit of joy, inclusivity, and creativity.
The celebrations began on October 25 at Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim, with workshops and competitions in clay modelling, drawing, cooking, fugdi, and traditional costume contests, concluding with the soulful performance Sur Taal. On October 26, the festivities continued at Saligao Panchayat Area with rangoli, cooking, and Veshbhusha Spardha contests, and culminated with Suron Kee Deepawali, a musical tribute to the festival of lights.
With Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural tourism, local participation, and sustainable community engagement. The festival stood as a radiant symbol of Goa’s heritage, uniting communities under the glow of countless diyas.
Goa has a new reason to beam with pride as 14-year-old Roshni Thakur, a student from Little Flower of Jesus High School, Calangute, has been crowned Miss Teen Super Global India 2025. The dazzling achievement marks a moment of celebration for Saligao, her hometown, and for India on the international stage.
Roshni, the daughter of Parvati Thakur and Suresh Thakur, showcased not only her beauty and confidence but also her intelligence and cultural grace in the teenage category (13–18 years) of the Super Global International Beauty Pageant.
The international pageant was hosted by Flamefire Media Production, under the leadership of Suraj Moni Doloi, and drew participants from around the world. Standing out with her poise and passion, Roshni earned her crown through hard work, determination, and an unshakable sense of purpose.
This win is more than just a crown—it’s a symbol of what young girls in India can achieve when given the stage to shine. Roshni’s success story serves as a powerful inspiration to teens across the country who dream big and dare to lead.
Speaking after the win, her mentors and supporters praised her humility and fierce dedication to personal growth, values, and national pride.
💬 “She didn’t just represent Goa—she carried the hopes of young India,” one mentor shared.
As Roshni sets her sights on future goals, one thing is certain—this is just the beginning of a sparkling journey.
Saligao, 9 May 2025 — The picturesque village of Saligao came alive this evening as the much-awaited Heritage Festival 2025 officially commenced, drawing locals and visitors into a vibrant celebration of Goa’s rich cultural legacy. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the three-day festival is set to run until 11th May 2025 at the Football ground, Saligao, offering an exciting lineup of traditional folk performances, live music, fashion, and more.
The inaugural evening began with soulful Goan music that set the tone for the festivities, followed by a formal inauguration and felicitation ceremony attended by dignitaries, local leaders, and cultural enthusiasts.
The festival was formally inaugurated by Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade; Shri Kedar Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency & Vice Chairman, GSIDC; Smt Delilah Lobo, Hon’ble MLA Siolim Constituency; Shri Kedar A. Naik, Director of Tourism, and Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, ZP Members and Panchayat members along with others.
It is with great pride that I announce Saligao as the permanent venue for the Heritage Festival, stated Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte. He further added that “Goa is evolving beyond its beaches—embracing regenerative tourism that respects culture, nurtures the environment, uplifts society, and strengthens the economy. This shift is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future, where tourism thrives alongside the preservation of our natural and cultural assets. The minister further stated that In Saligao, a range of infrastructure developments, with the support of the Chief Minister, will be taken forward under the Department of Tourism.
Shri Kedar Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency & Vice Chairman, GSIDC stated, “This is one of the most scenic constituencies in the state, home to stunning churches, temples, historic forts, and the majestic Arabian Sea. It truly is a land that offers everything. The Saligao Circle serves as a gateway to the vibrant northern coast of Goa. With its rich cultural landscape, this area is the perfect setting for a heritage festival, where tourists can immerse themselves in the authentic Goan experience.”
Smt Delilah Lobo, Hon’ble MLA Siolim Constituency said “I extend my sincere thanks to the Honourable Tourism Minister for bringing this festival Saligao constituency. I invite people from across Goa to come and celebrate our rich heritage, vibrant culture, and traditional cuisine. This truly embodies the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local,’ with various stalls set up by local self-help groups—providing a valuable platform for locals to showcase their talents and products.”
Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade also expressed his thoughts on the occasion. The vote of thanks was presented by Shri Deepak Narvekar, Dy. General Manager, Marketing, GTDC.
The evening’s cultural showcase featured the Kanta Gaude Troupe, who mesmerised the audience with a performance of the Lamp Dance and the graceful Dekhni, one of Goa’s most iconic folk dances. The highlight of the evening was a captivating fashion show curated by Verma Dmello, blending tradition with contemporary flair. The night concluded with an electrifying live performance by Sidhannath Buyao & Band, leaving the crowd energised and eager for what’s to come.
The festival grounds also hosted local self-help groups (SHGs) and artisans, offering handcrafted products, traditional Goan cuisine, and heritage exhibits — creating an immersive and authentic cultural experience for all attendees.
The Heritage Festival will continue on 10th and 11th May, with performances by Sonia Sirsat & Band, RAAGA – The Band, RASM Band, and Black Sapphire Band, along with folk dances including Goff, Veerbhadra, Jagor, and Corridinho.
The Department of Tourism welcomes everyone to be part of this unique celebration that honours Goa’s intangible cultural heritage while supporting local talent and sustainable tourism initiatives.
The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host the highly anticipated Goa Heritage Festival in the picturesque village of Saligao from May 9th to 11th, 2025. This three-day extravaganza promises to be a spectacular showcase of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a vibrant blend of traditional music, folk dances, fashion, and live performances.
The festival will commence on Friday, May 9th, with an evening of traditional Goan music, followed by an inauguration and felicitation ceremony. The Kanta Gaude Troupe will mesmerize the audience with their performances of the Lamp Dance and Dekhni, a traditional Goan folk dance. A fashion show by Verma Dmello will highlight the unique styles and designs inspired by Goan culture, culminating in a live musical performance by Sidhannath Buyao & Band.
On Saturday, May 10th, the celebration will continue with Goan music and diverse folk performances by the Kanta Gaude Troupe, including the Goff and Veerbhadra dance forms. The evening will witness a lively performance by RAGA – The Band, followed by felicitation and a soulful set by renowned Goan singer Sonia Sirsat & Band.
The final day, Sunday, May 11th, will feature the Kanta Gaude Troupe showcasing the Jagor and Corridinho, a Portuguese-influenced folk dance. The night will conclude with energetic performances by RASM Band and Black Sapphire Band, leaving the audience with unforgettable memories.
The Goa Heritage Festival is a significant step towards preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage. By providing a platform for local self-help groups and showcasing Goan culture, the festival aims to create deeper awareness of Goa’s cultural identity and support regenerative tourism that uplifts the local community and boosts the economy.
The Department of Tourism invites everyone to be part of this immersive cultural journey in Saligao. Join us for an unforgettable experience of Goan music, dance, fashion, and more!
Key Highlights:
Dates: May 9th to 11th, 2025
Venue: Saligao
Performances: Traditional Goan music, folk dances, fashion show, live music
Participating artists: Kanta Gaude Troupe, Sidhannath Buyao & Band, RAGA – The Band, Sonia Sirsat & Band, RASM Band, Black Sapphire Band
Objective: Preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage
Come and experience the vibrant culture of Goa at the Goa Heritage Festival 2025!
