Tag: Travel

Special Occasion

National Merri Music Day 2025: Celebrating 75 Years of Merritone’s Legacy and Global Sound-System Culture

Tanisha Cardozo

National Merri Music Day is observed annually on October 25 to honour the pioneering legacy of Merritone Music, one of Jamaica’s most influential sound systems. Officially designated in 2022, the observance stems from the monumental impact Merritone has had on the development of Jamaican and global music culture. The date corresponds with the birthday of Valentine “Val” Blake, the founder of Merritone, providing a symbolic connection between the day and the man whose vision helped transform post-war Jamaican music.

Merritone Music was established in Morant Bay, St. Thomas, following World War II. Under Val Blake’s guidance, it became a cornerstone of Jamaican entertainment, championing grassroots creativity and introducing new approaches to live performance, talent exposure, and recording innovation. From the earliest gatherings to its later international acclaim, Merritone bridged communities through rhythm, sound, and storytelling.

National Merri Music Day not only celebrates a sound system but a movement that shaped reggae, dub, and dancehall traditions while influencing global sound-system culture. It highlights Jamaica’s heritage as a musical powerhouse and acknowledges the creative spirit that thrives in local communities. The day encourages education, reflection, and unity—inviting fans, musicians, DJs, and sound-system crews around the world to participate through events, playlists, exhibitions, and social media engagement.

In Jamaica, the observance is marked through festivals, live DJ sessions, heritage projects, and community gatherings. Diaspora communities in the UK, US, Canada, and beyond also take part, connecting through livestreams, curated sets, and storytelling about sound-system culture.

In 2025, National Merri Music Day carries special significance as it coincides with Merritone’s 75th anniversary. The theme, “75 Years of Sound – Honouring the Past, Amplifying the Future,” reflects a dual commitment: celebrating the deep roots of Merritone’s legacy while inspiring new generations to continue the journey of sound-system creativity. It serves as a reminder that the pulse of Jamaican music—born from community, innovation, and resilience—continues to resonate worldwide.

Through collective participation, National Merri Music Day bridges eras, amplifies voices, and celebrates a living legacy that began in Morant Bay and now echoes across the globe.

Travel

Goa Deepotsav 2025 to Illuminate the State with Festive Splendour and Cultural Spirit

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to usher in the festive season with Goa Deepotsav 2025, a spectacular celebration of Diwali that will illuminate the state with colour, music, and cultural vibrance. The festival will span two days across three lively venues — Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim on October 25, followed by Saligao Panchayat Area, Saligao, and Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, Mapusa on October 26.

The celebrations will commence on October 25 at Porvorim with an exciting line-up of family-friendly competitions and workshops including cooking contests, fugdi competitions, clay modelling, drawing activities for kids, and the much-loved Veshbhusha Spardha (Traditional Costume Contest). The evening will feature a formal function and a soulful musical performance, Sur Taal, graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, and other dignitaries including Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, ZP Smt. Kavita Naik, MLA Shri Kedar Naik, and senior officials from the Department of Tourism and GTDC.

On October 26, the festivities will continue at the Saligao Panchayat Area with competitions such as Veshbhusha Spardha, Rangoli Making, and Cooking Contests, followed by a mesmerizing musical concert, Suron Kee Deepawali. The evening will also see the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, and other distinguished guests.

Later that evening, the celebrations will move to Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground for the grand finale featuring creative contests like the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition, alongside cultural showcases and a musical extravaganza, Rhythm of Lights. The event will host prominent leaders including the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Hon’ble Minister for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar, and several MLAs from surrounding constituencies.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte highlighted that Deepotsav reflects the essence of Goa — a land where culture, creativity, and community come together in celebration. He emphasized the role of such festivals in strengthening Goa’s cultural fabric while promoting community-led tourism that preserves Goa’s living traditions.

Echoing his sentiments, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, stated that this year’s Deepotsav is designed to engage every generation through workshops, performances, and culinary experiences that capture Goa’s inclusive and participative spirit. He added that events like Deepotsav embody the vision of Goa Beyond Beaches, showcasing the state as a destination where culture and creativity shine brightly.

Through Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism continues to advance its vision of connecting people through shared experiences and cultural pride. The festival stands as a symbol of Goa’s commitment to preserving its traditions while embracing innovation and inclusivity. As the state glows under the light of countless diyas and echoes with music and joy, Goa invites residents and visitors alike to join this radiant celebration of togetherness and tradition.

Events in Goa

Taj Cidade de Goa Celebrates International Chef’s Day with a Heartfelt Tribute to Goa’s Home Chefs

Tanisha Cardozo

In the world of gastronomy, the most cherished recipes often begin at home — simmered over slow flames, seasoned with memory, and perfected through generations. This International Chef’s Day, Taj Cidade de Goa celebrated those quiet creators of tradition — Goa’s home chefs — with an event that beautifully blended professional artistry and heartfelt heritage.

The resort’s special initiative, Home Chef Interactions, was designed as a bridge between Taj’s culinary experts and Goa’s passionate home cooks. It celebrated the idea that culinary excellence isn’t confined to professional kitchens but thrives equally in households where recipes are family heirlooms and every spice tells a story.

During these interactive sessions, the chefs of Taj Cidade de Goa came together with local home cooks to exchange techniques, flavours, and stories rooted in Goa’s rich gastronomic history. From the delicate balance of spices to the intuitive use of local ingredients, the sessions offered a deeper appreciation of the skill and creativity that define Goan cuisine.

Among the featured home chefs were Guilhermina Fernandes, who is known for her creative use of pepper — a spice she calls “the heart of Goan aroma and versatility”; Succorina C. Fernandes, celebrated for her soulful rendition of Samarachi Kodi, a monsoon favourite; and Sharmila Fernandes, whose Xacuti represents the complexity and warmth of traditional Goan cooking.

Their stories went beyond food — they spoke of heritage, of mothers and grandmothers who cooked by instinct, and of families for whom food has always been a language of love and belonging.

While professional kitchens around the world celebrated the artistry of chefs, Taj Cidade de Goa expanded that recognition to the unsung storytellers of Goan cuisine — home chefs who preserve authenticity through everyday cooking. The celebration culminated with a curated menu at BLD, the resort’s signature multicuisine restaurant, featuring dishes inspired by these talented cooks.

Through this thoughtful initiative, Taj Cidade de Goa reaffirmed its belief that true hospitality is rooted in culture and community. In honouring home chefs, the resort not only celebrated the spirit of International Chef’s Day but also ensured that the essence of Goan cuisine — humble, heartwarming, and steeped in history — continues to thrive for generations to come.

Travel

Goa’s Homestay and B&B Scheme Sets a National Benchmark, Inspires Delhi’s Revival of B&B Model

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa’s Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme, implemented by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has become a national benchmark in community-based tourism — inspiring states like Delhi to adopt similar frameworks. The scheme’s success lies in its holistic approach that blends financial incentives, simplified registration, and quality standards to strengthen local entrepreneurship and promote authentic travel experiences.

Designed to create meaningful engagement between visitors and local communities, the initiative encourages travellers to explore Goa’s hinterlands while generating sustainable livelihoods for residents. Eligible homestays and B&B operators receive a one-time grant of ₹2 lakh, along with marketing support through official Goa Tourism channels, and access to training programmes aimed at improving service quality and sustainability practices.

The scheme classifies participating establishments under Gold and Silver categories, offering benefits such as residential tariff rates for utilities, ease of licensing, and inclusion in state tourism promotions. It also emphasises empowering women and youth entrepreneurs, ensuring that the growth of tourism extends beyond the coastal belt into rural areas rich with culture and tradition.

Recognising the impact of Goa’s approach, the Delhi government has recently announced plans to revive its long-dormant Bed & Breakfast Scheme using Goa’s model as a reference. This move highlights Goa’s growing leadership in shaping sustainable and inclusive tourism policies at the national level.

Speaking on the development, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte remarked, “Goa’s Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme has been designed to empower Goans while creating meaningful experiences for travellers. The fact that other states are now adopting our model reaffirms our commitment to building a regenerative and community-led tourism framework.”

Echoing this sentiment, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, stated, “This initiative makes it easier for Goans to host visitors, earn additional income, and share our culture. By offering financial support, training, and simplified registration, the policy ensures that tourism growth benefits every section of society.”

With its emphasis on authentic stays, local engagement, and responsible development, Goa continues to lead India’s tourism transformation — setting a standard that other states are eager to emulate.

International

Kuwait Unites in Well-Wishes for Ahmed Al-Jarallah’s Recovery After Successful Surgery in France

Tanisha Cardozo

Kuwait’s spirit of unity and compassion was on full display as messages of love, respect, and prayers poured in for Ahmed Al-Jarallah, the Dean of Kuwaiti Journalism and Editor-in-Chief of Arab Times and Al-Seyassah newspapers, following his successful surgery in France.

The country’s leadership, ambassadors, writers, and citizens expressed heartfelt wishes for his speedy recovery. His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad sent a message of congratulations, expressing sincere wishes for Al-Jarallah’s health and wellbeing, while praising his lifelong contribution to Kuwaiti media and culture. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Nawaf also conveyed his blessings and prayers, wishing the veteran journalist continued strength, good health, and success in his work.

Renowned poet and writer Sheikha Dr. Suad Al-Sabah expressed deep gratitude for Al-Jarallah’s recovery, thanking Allah for his safety and commending his decades-long role in shaping Kuwaiti media. Similar messages came from prominent figures including Amir Al-Fahad Al-Malik, Sheikh Khalifa Abdullah Al-Jaber, and journalist Asaad Abdullah Al-Jarallah, who referred to him as “a man of wisdom and insight.”

International well-wishes also arrived, with the Ambassadors of Morocco and Oman to Kuwait sending congratulatory messages, praying for his speedy return to good health.

In his reply, Ahmed Al-Jarallah extended his gratitude to Kuwait’s leadership, his family, and well-wishers across the Arab world. He thanked His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Nawaf for their kind gestures, as well as ambassadors, friends, and readers from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE who reached out to him.

He also expressed appreciation for Ambassador Abdullah Sulaiman Al-Shaheen and Dr. Ali Al-Mousawi for their dedicated support during his treatment in France, and extended special thanks to Dr. Suad Al-Sabah, businessman Ahmed Al-Hamad, and Her Royal Highness Princess Hanouf Mamdouh bin Abdulaziz.

Ahmed Al-Jarallah’s recovery brought together the leadership and people of Kuwait in an inspiring display of national solidarity — a reflection of the country’s heart and the immense respect the veteran journalist continues to command.