A street play by Goa College of Agriculture, Ela, Old Goa, at the traditional Bonderam in Sao Mathias on Saturday.
OLD GOA
The quaint island of Divar came alive with the celebration of the annual traditional Bonderam, the festival of flags, with the festivities commencing from morning and continuing till the night.
A large number of people from the village as well as from different parts of the State descended on the island to experience this unique festival which is celebrated only in the twin villages of Divar island namely Sao Mathias and Goltim-Navelim.
It all started with the latest addition to the Bonderam festival with Millet, Mollam and Music workshop with Goa College of Agricultue participating in the millet workshop focusing on Goa’s own ‘Tizaan’.
Another highlight of the festival was the Heritage Walk or ‘Passoi’, curated by Goa's Festakar Marius Fernandes in collaboration with the Goencho Festakar team, which passed through the picturesque streets of Amboi, Goddar, Belsur, and Church Vaddo, offering insights into the fascinating history of the region. The streets came alive with street plays, skits, traditional Goan sweets, and the mesmerizing sounds of a Brass band and flag March Past, starting at the iconic St. Mathias Church.
Local Goan sweets were served to the participants who participated in the heritage walk. Young boys participated in the flag march accompanied by a traditional brass band.
The main attraction of the festival was the float parade in which the four wards namely Amboi, Goddar, Belsur and Church Vaddo presenting the traditional floats focusing on the various aspects of Goan life and culture.
But, the festivity didn’t end there as the young crowd was kept entertained with live music by DJ and a local band.
The other attractions of the festival included the fancy dress competition, the ‘katodeo’ or the coconut breaking contest where the old and the young participated.
Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude, who was the chief guest for the festival, stated that Goa is known for its unity which should be maintained at any cost.
“Festivals like Bonderam showcases the Goan culture and brings together people from all walks of life, from all around the State irrespective of caste, creed and culture. The government is committed to promote such festivals which promotes harmony among Goans,” the minister added.
Meanwhile, the victims of the Banastarim mishap were also remembered at the festival with a minute’s silence being observed in memory of the departed Phadte couple.
