LONDON
The Sangodd festival, a cherished Goan monsoon tradition celebrated annually on the Feast of St Peter and St Paul on June 29, made its historic debut in the United Kingdom when the Goan Fisherfolk UK hosted the event at Feltham Assembly Hall in London on June 28.
Traditionally celebrated by Goa's fishing communities across its coastal villages, the festival is renowned for its unique custom of tying together two or more canoes to create a floating platform known as a Sangodd. Following prayers, local fishermen gather on beautifully decorated boats to sing and dance, while spectators line the riverbanks to witness the vibrant celebration of faith, culture and community.
“Bringing this beloved tradition to the UK for the very first time, Goan Fisherfolk UK welcomed over 200 Goans from across the country for an afternoon celebrating Goa's rich heritage, music and food,” said Paul Fernandes, convenor of the Goan Fisherfolk UK.
The chief guest for the occasion was Adv. Aires Rodrigues, who attended alongside his wife, Liz Gracias. The couple were felicitated by the organisers in recognition of their presence and support.
The festivities commenced with an energetic opening set by DJ Synclair Varella, followed by the traditional Sangodd Parade, with the beautifully crafted Sangodd prop leading the procession into the hall.
The cultural programme featured an array of talented UK-based Konkani artistes organised by Bab Andrew D'Souza. The Konkani singers presented lively Konkani Kantaram, entertaining the audience with a selection of popular Konkani songs. Among the Konkani singers was the Modhur Tallo 2025 winner Delicia Pinto, while the sibling duo Jaden and Macclesia Fernandes delivered a rendition of Michael Jackson's 'Heal the World' as a heartfelt tribute to the late King of Pop.
Adding to the celebrations, Alvito Dias Da Gama, Anarita Rodrigues and Claudino Fernandes presented a vibrant fisherfolk dance performance, capturing the spirit and traditions of Goa's coastal communities.
The entertainment continued with a 90-minute non-stop performance by the UK's leading Goan band ‘Rhythm Mates’. Making a special guest appearance was Goa's visiting band, 'Shine On', before DJ Queency Fernandes brought the evening to a memorable close with an upbeat finale.
The event was hosted by dual hosts, Emcee Simon and Emcee Sydelle Varella.
Guests also enjoyed authentic Goan cuisine provided by Mark's Corner 77, while the bar and refreshments were served by Barcode.
One of the highlights of the evening was a lively game of Housie, where winners received cash prizes along with generous quantities of fresh fish, sponsored by Peter, the local Goan fisherman from Hounslow.
On the occasion, the chief guest, Adv. Aires Rodrigues released the Sangodd 2026 souvenir to commemorate the event.
The vote of thanks was delivered by John Mendes on behalf of the organising committee.
Paul Fernandes, convenor of the Goan Fisherfolk UK, said the sole aim of the Sangodd festival was to bring the Sangodd tradition to the UK and strengthen the bonds that unite Goans and the Goan diaspora in the UK.
“We brought Sangodd to the UK to keep our Goan traditions alive in the UK and maintain our connection with our Goan roots. The motive of this festival was to pass on Goa's traditions and the spirit of Goa to our future generations,” he said.
“The inaugural Sangodd festival marked a significant milestone in preserving and promoting Goan culture within the UK diaspora while ensuring that one of Goa's most treasured traditions continues to thrive far from home.”
