SIOLIM
Siolim came alive on August 15 with the inaugural ‘Siolchi Ekcharachi Sanz’, a community evening of food, games, culture, and fellowship at St Anthony’s Community Hall. Organised by St Anthony’s Parish Youth of Siolim (SAPYOS), the event celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day and the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Themed “Umedin fuddem sorum-ia, Khuxal zaum-ia, ani Ekvottachi sanz nettan gazoum-ia” — encouraging enthusiasm, joy, and togetherness — the programme began with a welcome address by Parish Priest Rev Dr Socorro Mendes and a prayer led by Assistant Parish Priest Fr Mario Carvalho.
The cultural sweet dish contest kicked off the festivities, with each ward presenting traditional Goan delicacies like Von, Soji, Xirvollio, and Pinagr, followed by a creative pineapple-based culinary challenge.
The spotlight then shifted to art and creativity. The T-shirt painting competition, themed around Goan heritage, displayed striking imagination, while the newspaper dressing contest drew laughter as models strutted in inventive paper outfits.
Games added a lively touch: the balancing cups challenge and fruit-eating race had the crowd cheering enthusiastically. Hilarity peaked during the blindfolded pot-breaking contest for women, where pots were often missed, and unsuspecting spectators narrowly dodged swings. Men’s coconut-breaking contests reached new heights when both priests joined, responding to the audience’s encouragement and fostering a spirit of shared fun.
The evening concluded with a prize distribution, recognising creativity, energy, and sporting spirit. Every ward participated wholeheartedly, turning the event into a festival of community engagement. With smiles, strengthened friendships, and a shared sense of pride, ‘Siolchi Ekcharachi Sanz 2025’ ended on a high note, promising to become a cherished annual tradition.
