LONDON
The vibrant sights and sounds of Goa came alive at the ‘Goan Summer Fiesta’ at the Reading Youth and Community Centre, in Reading-England on July 26.
The event in the evening brought together an estimated 300 people – families, music enthusiasts, and cultural supporters from across the UK – for an evening filled with celebration, community, and unforgettable entertainment.
Organised by The Goan Reading Boys Ltd, a community-driven group dedicated to charity, cultural promotion, and social unity, the fiesta showcased their commitment to giving back, not only through vibrant events like this, but also through their ongoing efforts to support both local and international causes.
THE ENTERTAINMENT
The night came alive with performances from some of the most talented Goan and UK-based artists. DJ Manuel and DJ Kenn Gracias from the UK delivered high-octane sets, mixing Goan beats with international hits that kept the dance floor buzzing.
Musicians from Goa also performed at the ‘Goan Summer Fiesta’.
DJ Mark Nazare delivered an energetic mix of retro and tropical sounds straight from the beaches of Goa, while the soulful Goan duo ‘The Silver Notes Band’ enchanted the crowd with their vocal harmonies and stage chemistry.
The band ‘Black in White’ was a highlight of the night, rocking the stage with their unique blend of Goan flair and modern music.
MC Delsy kept the gathering engaged and entertained at the event.
THE DIGNITARIES
The chief guest at the function was Clayton Barreto, S Secretary to the High Commissioner at the Indian High Commission in the UK.
In his address, Barreto also praised the Goan Reading Boys for celebrating Goan culture and heritage with passion, dedication, and systematic planning.
“Such events are not just about celebration — they are a beautiful reminder of our roots, our heritage, and the responsibility we carry to pass this legacy on to the generations to come. Wherever life may take us, we must never forget our identity — our culture, our values, our traditions, and our religious foundation,” said Barreto.
“Let us come together as one community. No matter which part of Goa we come from, we are one family here. When people in our workplaces or local communities ask who we are, we proudly say, “We are Goans”.”
“Each of us is a brand ambassador of Goa in the UK. Our values, our behaviour, our spirit — they reflect Goa. Let us carry that pride with humility and responsibility.”
Barreto also appealed to the gathering to remember their roots in Goa.
“While we may have moved away from Goa, there are still a few of our Goans back home striving to preserve what they can — our culture, our homes, our land, our Konkani language, our history,” he said.
“They cannot do it alone. They need our support, both morally and practically — whether it is through helping maintain our family homes, supporting local causes, or contributing to our religious institutions that have given us our faith.”
“Preserving our heritage isn’t just about celebration — it’s also about commitment and responsibility. Let us be mindful that our story does not end when we leave Goa; it continues wherever we go, but it always connects back to our roots.”
The guest of honour was the Mayor of Reading Councillor Alice Mpofu-Coles, who praised the Goan community for its cultural contributions and charitable work. She applauded the organisers for fostering inclusivity and community spirit in Reading.
THE PURPOSE
According to the Goan Reading Boys, the fiesta wasn’t just about music — it was a full celebration of Goan life. The event also served to raise awareness and support for their ongoing charitable work, which includes contributions to local initiatives in Reading and support for underprivileged communities in Goa.
“The Goan Summer Fiesta 2025 blended entertainment, heritage, and heart. We aren’t just celebrating culture, we are building community, one event at a time,” said Anthony Barreto of the Goan Reading Boys Ltd.
