The much anticipated dates for the Goa Carnaval and Shigmotsav festival were released during a news conference held by the Goa Ministry of Tourism under the leadership of Rohan Khaunte, the tourism minister. The minister provided important information about the state’s tourism ambitions as well as the ever-expanding folk festivals with centuries-old Konkani and Western-Christian origins at this news conference. A combination of water, air, and land will make the Goa Carnaval 2023 particularly distinctive. A helicopter will take part in the carnival procession this year, and there will also be floats in the Mandovi River, marking the first time that aerial involvement has been seen.
The Carnaval derives from Mardi Gras, a Christian custom of extravagant feasts and bouts of dancing and drinking before the fasting and abstinence associated with the penitential season of lent. This festival has Konkani roots, where the Intruz first began. This year’s Carnaval is scheduled to start on February 18 and run through February 21 in Porvorim, with a curtain-raiser on February 17. On Saturday in Panaji, the float procession will be flagged off. The New Patto Bridge will be the starting point for the capital city’s annual Carnaval float parade, which will next pass in front of the former secretariat. Porvorim, Panaji, Margao, Vasco, Mapusa, and Morjim are the carnaval’s hubs.The King Momo for this year has been chosen as Russell D’Souza of Margo, Goa. Based on the typical personality, history, and talent requirements, he was picked from among ten applicants as an entrepreneur. Every year, King Momo delivers the Konkani proclamation kha, piye aani majja kar (eat, drink and make merry).
Every year, Goa’s villages host the stunning five-day “Shigmotsav” or “Shigmo festival,” also known as the state’s spring celebration. At this period, renowned temple “Yatras” occur. According to the Hindu calendar, this festival is observed from the ninth moon day to the full moon day in the month of Phalguna (March). The Hindus celebrate it as their largest holiday.
This event is observed in a number of municipalities in an effort to lure tourists. Both modern floats and conventional Goan dance are featured in processions that take place in cities. Awards are given to the best float decorators and procession performers. The vibrant celebration is scheduled to start on March 8 and run through March 21 this year. Ponda, Bicholim, Mapusa, Panaji, Porvorim, Pernem, Valpoi, Sanqualim, Curchorem, Vasco, Margao, Sanguem, Quepem, and Canacona will serve as the parade’s starting and ending points. These floats include street dancers, folk dancers, and floats with religious imagery.
Like every year, the tourism agency is obligated to invite visitors from all over the world to enjoy a wonderful time in Goa this year as well. The tourist agency of Goa is making sure that all required measures are done to guarantee public safety.The opening of the new Helipad would encourage tourism to focus on the exciting sightseeing Goa has to offer and draw high-end visitors. A 24-hour helpline has also been established by the government for travelers who need assistance or information. The department is thrilled to assist Goans and visitors with the goal of making Goa a responsible and sustainable tourist destination.
