PANAJI
The Department of Art & Culture, Government of Goa made a vibrant debut at the prestigious BTL Lisbon 2025 (Bolsa de Turismo de Lisboa) showcasing Goa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage on an international platform.
The Goa Art & Culture Pavilion was formally inaugurated by Minister of Art & Culture and Sports, Govind Gaude, in the presence of Puneet Roy Kundal, Ambassador of India to Portugal, Premendra V. Shet, MLA (Mayem), Antonio Vaz, MLA (Cortalim), Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Secretary (Art & Culture) and Sagun Velip, Director, Directorate of Art & Culture.
The Goa Pavilion captivated visitors with its vibrant showcase of Goan art, literature, pottery, feni and authentic Goan delicacies such as Bibinca and Cashewnuts thereby presenting a true taste of the state's unique identity. Live demonstrations of pottery-making displayed by renowned traditional Goan artist Umakant Poke and Santosh Govekar under the Prime Minister’s Vishwakarma Scheme, drew significant attention from artist enthusiasts.
Musicians, Carlos Gonsalves and Sigmund de Souza kept the energy alive at the booth with soulful Goan music, blending traditional tunes, highlighted by performances with the ghumat and guitar, creating a melodious cultural experience.
Gaude said, “Goa’s culture & heritage is appreciated far and wide and we are very happy to showcase this rich and vibrant forms of art & culture be it music, food, handicrafts and more on a platter across the globe. We are happy to be participating at the BTL Lisbon 2025.”
