Tag: Sawantwadi

National

Sawantwadi’s Ganjifa Art Honored on National Postage Stamp and First-Ever Round Postcard

Tanisha Cardozo

The centuries-old tradition of Ganjifa art from Sawantwadi has achieved national recognition with the release of special postage stamps and India’s first-ever round-shaped postcard by the Indian Postal Department. The featured artwork, centered on the Dashavatara — the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu — highlights the intricate beauty and cultural richness of this folk art form, which dates back to the 16th century.

This proud moment was marked by a ceremony in Mumbai, followed by a heartfelt felicitation event at the historic Sawantwadi Palace. Present at the celebration were King Khem Sawant Bhosale, Queen Shubhada Devi Bhosale, Crown Prince Lakhamraje Bhosale, and Princess Shraddharaje Bhosale, who came together to honor the Ganjifa artists whose dedication has kept this heritage alive.

Sixteen artists — Mohan Kulkarni, Sadashiv Dhuri, Pandurang Dhuri, Ramchandra Thakur, Varsha Londhe, Vishwanath Kulkarni, Ladu Thakur, Gayatri Kulkarni, Sukanya Pawar, Gauri Parker, Arya Devrukhkar, Sonali Kumbhar, Yash Dhuri, Bhuvan Halskar, Nikita Arabekar, and Sachin Kulkarni — were felicitated for their invaluable contributions.

Queen Shubhada Devi Bhosale emphasized that this recognition is a tribute to the legacy of Raja Shivramraje Bhosale and Rajmata Satvashila Devi Bhosale, whose efforts in preserving Ganjifa art have borne fruit on a national and now international level. She appealed for continued royal and government patronage to ensure that Ganjifa remains a living tradition for future generations.

Princess Shraddharaje Bhosale praised the depiction of the Dashavatara on the round postcard, stating it serves as both cultural education and artistic inspiration for the younger generation. This initiative, she added, has elevated Sawantwadi’s folk traditions to a global stage.

Veteran artist Mohan Kulkarni spoke emotionally about this long-awaited recognition, calling it a profound honor for Sawantwadi’s artistic legacy and for the dedicated community of Ganjifa painters.

The event also saw support from Shri Pancham Khemraj College, whose professors and faculty expressed their pride in seeing the cultural heritage of Sawantwadi celebrated at such a level. Principal Dr. D.L. Bharmal, Prof. G.M. Shirodkar, Dr. Satish Sawant, and Jayprakash Sawant were present along with non-teaching staff.

This recognition marks not only a milestone for Ganjifa art but also a shining example of how royal patronage, government support, and community dedication can revive and sustain traditional art forms in modern India.

#faith

Devotion in Stone: Dr. Aniket Nibre Builds 40-Foot Idol of Lord Vitthal in Sawantwadi

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Story by Anil Bhise

In a remarkable blend of faith, perseverance, and craftsmanship, Dr. Aniket Ravindra Nibre, a resident of Majgaon Harsawantwada in Sawantwadi, has built an awe-inspiring 40-foot-tall idol of Lord Vitthal—right in his own field.

What makes this feat even more extraordinary is the material: stones collected from a nearby stream. Day by day, Dr. Nibre and his family members gathered and shaped these stones, breathing life into a massive representation of the beloved deity Vitthal, revered across Maharashtra and beyond.

“This idol is a reflection of our devotion—carved not just in stone, but in spirit,” says Dr. Nibre.

The project wasn’t a solo endeavor. It was supported by his family and community members, including Sai Nibre, Prasham Warang, Chirayu Warang, Ritika Nibre, and Ravindra Nibre, who all played a role in this labor of love.

The stone idol now stands as a symbol of spiritual dedication, attracting curiosity and admiration from locals and visitors alike. Its sheer scale and raw, earthy construction are a reminder of the power of personal devotion and grassroots creativity.

This creation, photographed beautifully by Anil Bhise, serves as more than just a religious sculpture—it’s a community’s collective expression of faith and identity, rooted deeply in the land they live on.

In a time when devotion is often fleeting, Dr. Aniket Nibre’s monument of love and faith in Lord Vitthal is a towering reminder of what patience, belief, and unity can build.

Social

JCI Panaji Hosts Life-Saving Mega Blood Donation Camp

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Written by Team Allycaral

On May 11, 2025, JCI Panaji, in collaboration with On Call Rakthdate Saunatha and Sarthak Foundation, successfully organized a Mega Blood Donation Camp at Kazi Shahabuddin Hall, Sawantwadi. The event saw an overwhelming response, with over 150 donors participating in this noble cause.

The camp was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including Dayanand Gawas, Ex-Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sindhudurg; Ashwini Patil, Chief Officer, Sawantwadi Municipality; Lakham Bhosle, Yuvraj Sawantwadi; Madhuri Mulik, PSI Sawantwadi; and Mahesh Remulkar, Executive Chairman, On Call Rakthdate Saunatha. Their presence highlighted the importance of community service and blood donation.

The Mega Blood Donation Camp received tremendous support from the people of Sawantwadi and Goa, showcasing the community’s spirit of giving and humanitarianism. This selfless act of kindness will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of many, demonstrating the power of collective effort in creating a positive impact.

JCI Panaji’s commitment to serving the community is truly commendable. Under the leadership of JC Sandeep Kerkar (President), JC Srushti Lotlikar Nagvekar (Secretary), and JC Deepa Shirgaonkar (Project Director), the organization continues to make a positive impact in the lives of people, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the donors, volunteers, and organizers who made this event a success. Your contributions will help save countless lives and inspire others to follow in your footsteps. The success of this camp is a testament to the community’s generosity and the dedication of JCI Panaji and its partners.

Social

Hemophilia Society Panaji Chapter Hosts Successful Education Program in Sawantwadi

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The Hemophilia Society Panaji Chapter recently organized a highly informative education program at Hotel Mango in Sawantwadi, which was attended by 45 patients and parents. The event featured a range of sessions focused on medical advancements, psychological support, and advocacy for hemophilia patients and families.


The education program included expert sessions by renowned specialists in the field of hemophilia. Dr. Makrand Gore delivered a comprehensive presentation on the latest treatments available for hemophilia patients. Psychologist Ms. Riya Sawant shared valuable insights and coping techniques to help patients and families manage the psychological aspects of living with hemophilia.

Journalist Mr. Prakash Kamat emphasized the importance of advocacy for hemophilia patients and families, highlighting the need for increased awareness and support. Dr. Bhavna Telang provided updates on the availability of clotting factor, a crucial aspect of hemophilia treatment.


On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the chapter’s women’s group celebrated by cutting a cake, honoring the strength and resilience of women in the hemophilia community. This included caregivers, carriers, and those with bleeding disorders, who play a vital role in supporting patients and families affected by hemophilia.


The education program organized by the Hemophilia Society Panaji Chapter aimed to empower patients and families with knowledge, support, and advocacy. By bringing together experts and stakeholders, the event facilitated meaningful discussions and connections, ultimately strengthening the hemophilia community in the region.


If you or someone you know is affected by hemophilia, consider reaching out to the Hemophilia Society Panaji Chapter for support and resources. Together, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals and families affected by hemophilia.