the goan I network
OLD GOA
Traditional culture and music were showcased at the traditional Bonderam festival at Malar-Divar, with thousands of people from different parts of the State witnessing the festival on Saturday evening.
Four floats presented by the four wards of Malar, comprising Church ward, Goddar, Amboi and Belsur, focussed on traditional themes to the tunes of Konkani music.
The event, organised by the Sao Mathias Sport Club, also included the ‘Bonderam-chi Passoi’, the coconut-breaking contest, fancy dress, traditional music by a brass band, music by ‘Johnny Be Good’ with Bushka and ‘Double R’ band.
Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude was the chief guest, while Sao Mathias Sarpanch Sadanand Phadte and social worker Sarvendra Phadte were special invitees. The Art and Culture Department was the principal sponsor for the festival.
The minister expressed happiness with residents for keeping alive the traditional Bonderam festival and appreciated the talent in the village.
Speaking about his personal connect with Malar, Gaude said he has a field in the village and made sure to visit his field while proceeding to the Bonderam festival.
Ivo Azavedo, president of Sao Mathias Sport Club, expressed happiness over the event and said the entire village had come together.
“Everyone contributed in their own little way to ensure the success of this traditional festival,” said Azavedo.
The traditional festival, which dates back several centuries, has been organised by the Sao Mathias Sport Club since the past 20 years.
Arrangements were made by Goa police, Traffic Cell and fire services to ensure the success of the festival.
