The parade was flagged off by Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho, in the presence of King Momo, Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, Vasco Carnival Committee Chairman Agnelo Nunes and other dignitaries.
VASCO
The streets of Swatantra Path in Vasco came alive on Monday evening as thousands of revellers from across Mormugao taluka thronged the city to witness the grand Vasco Carnival parade, turning the 1.5-km stretch into a sea of colour, music and celebration.
A total of 49 floats rolled through the route under various categories, including clubs and institutions (16), traditional (7), clowns and jokers (14), fun and junk cars (7), and family entries (5). Live bands, traditional Kunbi dancers and creatively designed floats entertained the crowds.
King Momo and the Carnival Queen led the procession, greeting spectators who lined both sides of the road. Performances were staged near Vasco Railway Station and close to the municipality building, keeping the festive mood alive late into the evening.
Earlier, the parade was flagged off by Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho, in the presence of Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, Vasco Carnival Committee Chairman Agnelo Nunes and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Godinho described Carnival as a celebration rooted in Goa’s tradition of joy and unity.
“Goans have always celebrated in a clean and positive manner. Carnival has been sustained over the years because of the love and enthusiasm of the people. Carnival gives people an opportunity to celebrate life and togetherness,” he said.
MLA Salkar said the festival strengthens communal harmony and enhances Goa’s tourism appeal.
“Carnival brings people of all faiths together and showcases Goa on the national stage. It is not only a celebration for Goans but also a major attraction for visitors. The floats presented this year carry meaningful social messages along with entertainment,” he said, adding that the festival allows people to set aside daily worries and celebrate collectively.
Nunes lauded the overwhelming participation.
“Carnival is eagerly awaited every year. It spreads happiness and promotes unity through music, dance and themed presentations. The messages conveyed through the floats encourage inter-religious harmony and social awareness,” he said.
Heavy police deployment ensured the smooth conduct of the event, though several enthusiastic spectators briefly stepped onto the road to click photographs and record videos with performers.
As the parade concluded, Vasco resonated with music, laughter and the vibrant spirit of Carnival.
