Members of the Irish Goa community at an awareness campaign during the Saint Patrick day celebration in Ireland last year.
LONDON
Goa made its first appearance as part of the India State Tourism Event series in hybrid mode hosted by the Indian High Commission in Dublin on February 9, when members of the Irish Goa community and stakeholders from Goa showcased the tourism industry and facilities in Goa.
The Indian High Commission in Dublin organised the event to promote Indian tourism from 27 Indian states and Goa had been invited for the first time to make its presentation on Goa’s tourism. The introductory remarks were delivered by Ambassador Akhilesh Mishra.
Representing the Irish Goa community at this event included Milla Hancock, Pravin Coutinho, Nora Hidden, Samira De Souza and Larisa Cardoz.
In addition, stakeholders from the tourism sector in Goa also participated virtually at the event.
The Indian high commissioner in Dublin and officials from the embassy, officials from the Tourism Ireland and tour operators from Ireland also participated at the event, which was aimed at promoting tourism in India. There was a question and answer session after the presentations.
Milla said the Irish Goa community is also thrilled to represent Goa once again at the Indian Food Festival on February 29 which is also hosted by the Indian High Commission in Ireland.
“This time, we will proudly showcase Goan cuisine,” said Milla
GOAN ACTIVITIES IN IRELAND
Milla said the Irish Goa community had organised a number of activities last year to promote Goan culture.
“In March, we kicked off with a vibrant participation in the float parade, featuring music and dance on Saint Patrick’s Day, proudly showcasing Goan culture. Later in June, we celebrated the Feast of St John the Baptist, followed by a joyful get-together after the Eucharist celebration,” said Milla.
A section of the Irish Goa community in Ireland.
“July marked a significant milestone with the inaugural Irish Goa Day in Ireland, which proved to be a resounding success. Drawing in over 2,000 people, the event featured regional entertainment, a diverse array of food and accessory stalls, as well as engaging activities for both children and adults, all while highlighting local celebrities within our community,” said Milla.
In October, Milla said Goans came together again for the Irish Goa Community event which attracted 250 people.
“In December, we celebrated the feast of St. Francis Xavier, welcoming a Goan priest for the Eucharist celebration followed by a gathering with dining and dancing. Additionally, we organised a Christmas dance called the ‘Christmas Boogie’, drawing in over 200 people featuring live entertainment by an Irish artiste, Austin Prior, and spinning the decks was DJ Ernest.”
Looking ahead, Milla said the Goans will participate in the Saint Patrick's Day float parade on March 17 and will continue their tradition of celebrating the Feast of St John the Baptist.
“Following the success of the inaugural Irish Goa Day in 2023, we are gearing up to elevate the event to new heights this year. With a focus on celebrating the fusion of our two cultures through food, dance, and music, we aim to make this event even more memorable and impactful,” Milla added.
