A group photo of some of the participants from the three former Portuguese colonies and other attendees.
LONDON
The first-ever inclusive Goa, Daman and Diu Fest took place on July 30 at the iconic Belgrave Gate, Leicester, uniting the rich cultural heritage of the three former Portuguese territories.
Organised by Goa’s Festakar Marius Fernandes, a curator with an unwavering passion for cultural exchange, and coordinated by Steve White MBE, a dedicated community leader, the festival captivated the hearts and minds of attendees. Their combined efforts ensured that the festivities left an indelible mark on the city’s social and cultural landscape.
The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests and dignitaries, including the assistant mayor of Leicester, Manjula Sood MBE, and Manjit Singh, renowned as the “Iron Man of Leicester” for holding over 70 world records.
Fatima Fernandes introduced the fest and festival coordinator, Steve White MBE, and warmly welcomed guests from Goa, Daman, and Diu, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and cultural exchange.
Special recognition was bestowed upon Curator of the Goa Daman and Diu Fest, Goa’s Festakar Marius Fernandes, who received a Queen’s medal for his outstanding work in environmental and social responsibility in Goa and Leicester.
During the festival, Marius shared insights into Goa, Daman and Diu culture, highlighting the significance of the traditional Goan percussion instrument, Ghumot, and the UN’s designated crop of the year 2023, Millets.
Additionally, he established connections between the Leicester Haemophilia and the Panjim Chapter of Goa Haemophilia, fostering collaborations in the medical field.
Dhiru Shah (extreme left), trustee and fund-raising manager for Medaid UK charity, being presented with Millet seeds by Festakar Marius Fernandes which was gifted by the Goa College of Agriculture at Old Goa.
A workshop on making Millet-based porridge (Tizann) was conducted by Marius Fernandes, and the Goa College of Agriculture at Ela Farm, Old Goa, provided Millet seeds to Dhirubhai Shah, with the intention of supporting farmers in Uganda.
Maria Fernandes and John Fernandes organised a flower-making workshop, spreading joy and creativity among the festival’s guests. Gemma Fernandes presented the hand-made flowers to Manjit Singh and Asha, also a holder of many world records.
The event was further enriched by enchanting Konkani music playing in the background, creating an atmosphere of cultural immersion. Food enthusiasts were treated to a feast from the Indian subcontinent, providing a culinary journey that showcased diverse flavours and aromas.
The festival’s grand finale included an invitation from Marius Fernandes to the gathering, extending an invitation to the upcoming Peace Fest in Goa during February 2024. This invitation further solidified the bonds of friendship and collaboration forged during the inclusive Goa, Daman and Diu Fest.
The festival reflected the vibrant spirit of multicultural unity and celebrating the cultural richness of Goa, Daman, and Diu while embracing the diverse community of Leicester.
Attendees witnessed the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, reflecting the harmonious blend of cultures that define the spirit of Goa, Daman, and Diu.
“The festival aimed to foster inclusivity and shared understanding, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds to appreciate and celebrate the rich heritage of Goa, Daman, and Diu,” stated Festakar Marius Fernandes, the visionary behind the event.
“We are thrilled to have created a platform that transcends boundaries and celebrates our shared humanity through culture and art.”
Steve White MBE, the coordinator of the festival, expressed his gratitude to the city of Leicester for embracing the event with open arms.
“Leicester’s remarkable spirit of unity and cultural diversity was on full display during the fest. We are incredibly proud of the way our community came together to showcase the beauty of Goa, Daman, and Diu to the world,” he remarked.
