The Carnival festivities in the State have commenced with the Carnival float parade held in the capital city, Panaji. In the past the float parades were held in only major cities like Panaji, Margao, Vasco, Ponda etc. People from all over the state as well as tourists used to crowd the cities to witness the commercial floats. But now it is observed that Carnival float parades are being held in several villages across the State which comes as a breath of fresh air. The traditional Carnival celebrations are being revived across the State.
It is learnt that Cortalim is all set to witness its first-ever Carnival celebrations from March 2 to 4 in coordination with the Directorate of Art and Culture by holding a grand all Goa float parade. The carnival will also feature traditional Khell Tiatrs and live performance by leading bands. Fatorda is also set to celebrate Carnival in a grand way. A variety of entertainment programs and competitions will be held during the four-day celebrations. Benaulim is also set to celebrate Carnival in a grand way. The Carnival float parade 2025, set to take place on March 1 which is themed as “Carnival the Local Way,” aims to celebrate Goan traditions while showcasing local talent.
The ‘Zomnivele Khell Utsav’ organized by the Tiatr Academy of Goa (TAG) officially commenced on Thursday in Raia. The festival is reportedly dedicated to reviving and spreading awareness of the traditional Zomnivele Khell tiatrs across the State, with a particular focus on engaging the younger generation. Citizens from Divar have a unique tradition of celebrating Carnival for three days with ‘Potekrs’ which is all about fun and frolic. The younger generation may not know the significance of ‘potekars’.
It may be recalled that in the past Carnival was celebrated by putting powder on the head and throwing water balloons on one another. Modern generations may not be aware of the way the festival was celebrated in the bygone years. It comes as a pleasant surprise that Goans in some way are going back to the traditional way of celebrating Carnival which was all but forgotten. The present generation needs to be introduced to these festivities instead of being just spectators to commercial float parades held in the major cities.
