#faith

Shatakautsav Mahotsav of Vitthal Rakhumai Temple Inaugurated in Vithalwadi as Temple Marks 100 Years


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

Mapusa/Vithalwadi: The Shatakautsav Mahotsav commemorating 100 years of the Vitthal Rakhumai Temple at Vithalwadi was inaugurated with religious fervour and community participation, marking the temple’s entry into its centenary year.


The inauguration was attended by Dy. Speaker and MLA of Mapusa Joshua De Souza, along with Tourism Minister and MLA of Porvorim Rohan Khaunte. The centenary celebrations highlight the temple’s enduring spiritual legacy and its deep-rooted connection with the local community.

The Shatakautsav Mahotsav will feature nearly 100 programmes, including 1,000 pujas, the traditional Palki procession, and a series of devotional and cultural activities aimed at celebrating the region’s rich spiritual heritage.

The celebrations will continue until February 1, 2026, reflecting a strong foundation of faith, tradition, and collective participation. The organising committee, comprising members from multiple generations, has played a key role in ensuring that the centenary celebrations represent both continuity and inclusiveness.

The event stands as a tribute to a century of devotion, community bonding, and the preservation of cultural and spiritual traditions associated with the Vitthal Rakhumai Temple.

Events in Goa

CM Sawant Urges Goa’s Youth to Follow Sant Muktabai’s Values at Margao’s Dindi Festival


Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, addressing devotees during Margao’s Dindi Festival, called upon the young generation of Goa to imbibe and live by the values of Sant Muktabai, known for her teachings of humility, devotion, and selflessness.

Dr. Sawant observed that despite the challenges of today’s digital era, the large turnout of youth at the festival reflected Goa’s deep spiritual roots and its continued reverence for traditional values. He emphasized that devotion to Lord Vittal of Pandharpur is not confined to Maharashtra alone, as Goa too has a vibrant community of followers who express their faith through cultural and devotional celebrations such as the Dindi.

The Chief Minister further assured that his government would extend every possible support required for the smooth organization and promotion of the festival, recognizing it as an integral part of the state’s spiritual and cultural identity.

The Dindi Festival in Margao, celebrated with traditional bhajans, processions, and devotional gatherings, continues to serve as a reminder of the region’s shared heritage and the enduring legacy of saints like Sant Muktabai, who inspired generations to live a life of compassion and devotion.

Human Interest

JCI Pilgao Elite Launches First Aarti Sangrah Booklet on Independence Day 2025


Pilgao, Goa Celebrating both national pride and cultural preservation, JCI Pilgao Elite marked a significant milestone on Independence Day 2025 with the launch of its first Aarti Sangrah booklet. This spiritual compilation is a tribute to Goan religious traditions and was released amidst a gathering of esteemed dignitaries and community leaders.

The event was held in Pilgao in the gracious presence of:

  • JC Jayesh Valavalkar, President, JCI Pilgao Elite
  • Asmita Gauns, 1st Lady of JCI Zone 11
  • JC Sharmila Valavalkar, Sarpanch of Pilgao
  • Pravin Parab, Secretary of VP Piligao
  • Sanjay Nanda Falkar, Writer-Director
  • Ashvesh Gimonkar
  • Deepak Prabhu Gaonkar, President of Shantadurga Temple
  • JC Swati Naik Shirodkar, Secretary of JCI Pilgao Elite

A special highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the Aarti Sangrah booklet to Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, recognizing the community’s efforts in preserving spiritual literature and passing traditions to the next generation.

The initiative not only commemorated India’s 78th Independence Day but also highlighted the importance of cultural identity, spiritual continuity, and local leadership.

“The Aarti Sangrah is more than just a book — it’s a celebration of devotion and cultural pride,” said JC Jayesh Valavalkar.

This project marks a promising beginning for JCI Pilgao Elite’s cultural initiatives, reinforcing the organization’s mission to build better communities through service, leadership, and tradition.