UK’s first-ever ‘Goa, Daman and Diu Fest’ to celebrate unique culture, heritage and people of three communities outside subcontinent
Mario Fernandes and Steve White holding the festival poster.
THE GOAN NETWORK | LONDON
After organising 75 zero-waste and people-inclusive festivals in Goa, Marius Fernandes, popularly known as Goa’s Festakar, will curate UK’s first-ever ‘Goa, Daman, and Diu Fest’ at Belgrave Gate in Leicester, UK on July 30 from 11 am onwards.
The city of Leicester will witness a unique event that celebrates the rich culture, heritage, music and cuisine of the historic territories of Goa, Daman, and Diu, providing a unique opportunity for these three communities to come together outside the subcontinent and showcase their vibrant traditions.
Festival curator and Leicester's very own Marius Fernandes has undertaken the task of uniting the Goan, Daman, and Diu communities on a single platform. The event aims to foster a sense of camaraderie, celebrate shared roots, and highlight the contributions of these communities to the diverse cultural tapestry of Leicester.
Steve White MBE, a prominent figure in the community and coordinator of the festival, will be engaging in a conversation with a resident of Daman, delving into their present status and experiences of settling in the city.
Likewise, George Goodchild will engage in a similar conversation with a resident of Diu to explore their status and experiences in Leicester and Fatima Fernandes will be speaking to George Goodchild about his numerous trips to Goa.
“The festival will also feature a fascinating display showcasing nine types of Millets gifted by Dr Suresh Kunkalikar, Dean of Goa College of Agriculture at Old Goa. Notably, Millets have been designated as the United Nations crop of the year 2023, drawing attention to their nutritional significance and sustainable cultivation,” said Marius, while adding that the festival organisers believe in promoting healthy living while celebrating cultural heritage.
“We are honoured to announce that Manjula Sood MBE, the first Asian lady mayor in the UK and present Assistant Mayor of Leicester, will grace the event as a special invitee. Her presence reflects the significance of this festival in the city's multicultural landscape.”
“Joining her will be the remarkable Manjit Singh, holder of numerous Guinness records, whose achievements have inspired generations.”
Added Steve White MBE, Coordinator of the fest: “Marius has arrived back in Leicester full of ideas and enthusiasm. Bringing the Daman, Dui and Goa communities together in celebration is ideal timing for Leicester at this moment in time. Discussions around the health benefits of Millet are also timely!”
“Having two iconic figures in Manjula Sood MBE and Manjit Singh, the Ironman of Leicester, in attendance is a real boon.”
“Adding to the festivities, the ‘Goa, Daman, and Diu Fest’ will feature captivating Konkani music, taking attendees on a melodious journey, and serve an array of delectable traditional dishes, allowing everyone to savour the flavours of these regions.”
“The ‘Goa, Daman, and Diu Fest’ promises to be a momentous occasion, promoting unity, diversity, and appreciation for unique cultures. It is hoped the event will firmly put Leicester on the cultural map of the subcontinent,” White added.
Fernandes, shared his excitement, saying, "This event holds great historical and cultural significance. It's an opportunity for the Goan, Daman, and Diu communities to come together and showcase their heritage while fostering connections with the larger community of Leicester and hoping for a day of celebration, unity, and cultural exchange."
Incidentally, the Stella Salta Haematologist Consultant University Hospitals Leicester Trust will join the festival on Sunday, providing an opportunity for Leicester to link with Goa regarding Haemophilia and engage with families Marius has met at Festivals in Goa.
Marius to receive late Queens Platinum Jubilee Award
Goa’s Festakar Marius Fernandes will receive the late “Queens Platinum Jubilee Award” on July 30 in recognition of his services to the environment, both in Leicester and in Goa.
“This award epitomises who Marius Fernandes is and what he stands up for in the protection of the environment and sport for all,” said Steve White MBE, coordinator of the festival.
“The Late Queens Platinum Jubilee focuses on the Green Canopy we want to see happen through planting trees. The Special Olympics brings the World together through the recent hosting of the World Games in Berlin.”
Steve and Assistant Mayor of Leicester Manila Sood, MBE, have commended Mario for curating festivals with no chief guests, sponsors, prizes, competitions and alcohol.
They have plans to fly to Goa in February for one of Mario’s planned Unity Festival.
