MUMBAI
The Spirit of Goa came alive on August 31 as ‘Susegad Goans Borivli’ hosted the silver anniversary celebrations of World Goa Day, marking 25 years of this global event that unites Goans across the world.
The vibrant community, including Goans as well as non-Goans, came together at Samara Gardens in Malad-Mumbai to celebrate the milestone event, keeping Goan spirit alive with friends and families who proudly embraced the heritage, culture and Susegad lifestyle of Goa.
The celebrations commenced on a soulful note with a prayer and hymn of thanksgiving, invoking God’s blessings upon the day and the community. This beginning set an uplifting tone for what unfolded into a day filled with music, dance, laughter and camaraderie.
The proceedings began with a welcome address by Edward Verdes, a passionate Goan who extended heartfelt greetings to all present. He recalled the humble beginnings of Susegad Goans and its journey over the last 2 years, growing from a small enthusiastic group into a vibrant community known for its joyful spirit.
He reminded everyone that World Goa Day is not just a celebration but also a platform to keep alive the Goan identity.
This was followed by a special silver anniversary message delivered by Maria Gomes Fernandes, coordinator and core team member of Global Goans and of Susegad Goans Borivli. Her message reflected both pride and gratitude as she highlighted the vision of World Goa Day—to unite Goans across the globe to celebrate their roots and traditions.
The mood then shifted from formal to festive with an engaging icebreaker game that had everyone enjoying, laughing and mingling freely.
Soon after came the Goa Quiz, which tested participants’ knowledge of Goa while also sparking friendly competition and plenty of amusement.
“Renita Fernandes with her charm and poise, steered the programme as compere and ensured lively engagement and a smooth flow of the event. What made this celebration special was not just the entertainment, but the spirit of inclusiveness that ‘Susegad Goans Borivli’ stand for,” said Romano Fernandes, a member from the organising team.
As the day unfolded, the stage came alive with dance performances, including traditional Goan folk dances – the Kunbi, Dekhni, and the Corridinho. These performances not only showcased Goa’s rich cultural tapestry but also delighted the audience with their vibrancy and energy.
The infectious mood filled the venue with an atmosphere of pure joy and entertainment. DJ Germano Fernandes set the tone for the day with his foot-tapping music that had everyone swaying to Goan beats.
Traditional Goan food, which included the much-loved pork sorpotel, instantly transported everyone to the kitchens of Goa. The meal became a time for bonding, conversation and laughter, as old friendships were rekindled and new ones blossomed.
The afternoon continued in true Susegad style – relaxed, cheerful and filled with the spirit of togetherness.
The organising team, comprising a group of friends, including Olivia Verdes, Brendan Fernandes, Pritie D’Souza, Renita Fernandes, Ginny Rodricks, Maria Gomes Fernandes and Romano Fernandes, all bonded by their love for Goa, had worked tirelessly to make the event meaningful and memorable for everyone.
“As the day drew to a close, one thing was certain – the World Goa Day celebration reaffirmed the commitment of Susegad Goans Borivli to preserving Goan culture, while also celebrating the simple pleasures of togetherness that define the Susegad way of life,” said Romano.
“The gathering at Samara Gardens reflected the true essence of Goa — Mog ani Ekvott.”
