Tag: Seafood Festival

Events in Goa

Raponkarancho Sea Food Festival 2025 Opens at Arambol, Celebrating Goa’s Coastal Heritage

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Arambol came alive with aromas of fresh seafood, lively music, and vibrant coastal traditions as Day 1 of the Raponkarancho Sea Food Festival 2025 unfolded, setting a festive tone for the days ahead. The festival offered a heartfelt tribute to Goa’s maritime heritage, blending culinary excellence with cultural expression and community participation.

The festival was formally inaugurated in the presence of Hon’ble MLA Shri Jit Arolkar and Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, along with Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC, and other dignitaries and community representatives. Their presence marked the beginning of a celebration deeply rooted in Goa’s coastal identity and fishing traditions.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasised the importance of such festivals in preserving traditional livelihoods and cultural practices. He noted that the Raponkarancho Sea Food Festival plays a crucial role in safeguarding Goa’s fishing heritage and culinary legacy, while also strengthening community-led tourism that reflects the state’s authentic character.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the festival serves as a platform to bring fishing communities, local cuisine, and cultural traditions together. He underlined that initiatives like these promote experiential tourism while ensuring that local communities remain central to tourism development in Goa.

Visitors were treated to a diverse spread of traditional seafood preparations, thoughtfully curated by local fishermen and culinary experts. Each dish reflected the flavours of coastal Goa, offering an authentic gastronomic experience rooted in age-old recipes and fresh local produce.

Adding to the festive ambience were live cultural performances that showcased Goa’s rich artistic traditions, creating an immersive experience for both locals and tourists. Music, dance, and community interaction transformed the venue into a lively celebration of coastal life.

The Raponkarancho Sea Food Festival 2025 stands as a vibrant celebration of Goa’s coastal traditions, community spirit, and culinary richness. As the festival continues over the coming days, it promises more flavours, performances, and experiences that reinforce Goa’s vision of sustainable and community-driven tourism.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Goan Festivals

Raponkarancho Seafood Festival Kicks Off at Arambol Beach

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The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa organised The Raponkarancho Seafood Festival commenced on a vibrant note on 13th December 2024 at the scenic Arambol Beach, celebrating Goa’s rich coastal heritage and seafood culture. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Chairman of GTDC and MLA Sanvordem Constituency Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, and Mandrem MLA Shri Jit Arolkar and Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS.

The festival brought together Raponkars (traditional fishermen), dignitaries, and enthusiastic visitors, including foreign tourists, who thoroughly enjoyed the authentic seafood delicacies. Traditional Ghumots were presented to the dignitaries and foreign guests, symbolizing Goa’s cultural pride and warm hospitality.

Day 1 featured an exciting lineup of performances, including the SHINE ON band, Cosmic Sound live set, USMAN, and OG SHEZ, drawing enthusiastic participation from locals and tourists alike.

Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte further highlighted the department’s commitment. “The Raponkarancho Seafood Festival is not just a celebration of our rich culinary tradition but a platform to promote sustainable tourism. It recognizes the vital role of our fishing community in shaping Goa’s coastal heritage. Through such events, the state aims to not only attract tourists but also ensure that our local traditions and communities are celebrated and supported. Events like these help create a vibrant and inclusive tourism ecosystem that benefits the people of Goa.”

Mandrem MLA Shri Jit Arolkar spoke about the cultural importance of the festival, stating, “The festival is a reflection of our cultural identity and gives us an opportunity to showcase the efforts of our fishermen.”

Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of GTDC, praised the initiative, reaffirming Goa’s commitment to promoting events that celebrate local heritage and traditions.

Director Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, added, “This festival showcases Goa’s rich seafood culture and also serves as a platform for community engagement and support for sustainable tourism practices.”
Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager Mktg GTDC proposed the vote of thanks.

The Day 2 will feature performances by Purple Rain, Gravity Band, DJ Katrin and DJ Ivan, and day 3 will feature performances by The Imperial Band, Forefront as well as DJ Afroz Sayed and Teri Miko.

With an promising start, the festival is set to continue on 14th and 15th December 2024, offering visitors an immersive experience through cultural programs, live performances, and traditional Goan seafood delicacies. All are encouraged to join the celebration and partake in Goa’s vibrant coastal traditions.