MOMO MOMENT: Enthusiastic revellers rush to capture King Momo’s float as it rolls through the vibrant streets of Panaji on Saturday.
PANAJI
Goa’s Carnival festivities were formally ushered in on Saturday with the traditional float parade along Dayanand Bandodkar Road in Panaji, flagged off by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant.
Thousands of Goans and tourists lined the riverfront stretch from Patto Bridge to Kala Academy to witness the spectacle, a highlight of the State’s cultural calendar.
The parade opened with King Momo atop the lead float, setting the tone for the celebrations. However, the excitement quickly gave way to frustration as spectators were left waiting nearly an hour before subsequent floats appeared.
With no explanation forthcoming from officials, the delay sparked visible discontent, with many in the crowd voicing their displeasure at the organizational lapse.
Despite the glitch, the parade showcased a vibrant mix of themes, music, and dance, reaffirming Carnival’s reputation as one of Goa’s most anticipated events.
This year’s celebrations had a curtain-raiser in Porvorim, the constituency of Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, whose department oversees the festivities.
The Carnival festivities will continue until February 17, with parades scheduled in Margao on Sunday, Vasco on Monday, and Mapusa and Morjim on Tuesday, alongside traditional celebrations in villages across the State.
