DHARBANDORA: The Dudhsagar Festavista brought Goa’s vibrant culture to life with unforgettable local cultural dances and live performances, and festive cheer. Held on Christmas Day, 25 December, at the scenic Metawado Ground in Collem, this one-day extravaganza was organised by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and the Department of Tourism. Drawing a remarkable crowd of more than 10,000 attendees, the festival embodied the vibrant and celebratory essence of Goa.
The festival was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Premendra Shet, Mayem MLA and Chairman of the Goa State Horticulture Corporation; Dr Ganesh Gaonkar, Sanvordem MLA and Chairman GTDC; Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC; Laxmikant Vaigankar, General Manager, GTDC, Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, GTDC; Sandeep Gawas, Deputy General Manager, GTDC and others.
In his address, Dr Ganesh Gaonkar highlighted the importance of initiatives like Dudhsagar Festavista in promoting Goa’s hinterlands and enhancing tourism experiences. He remarked, “This festival represents another step in GTDC’s commitment to showcasing Goa’s diverse attractions beyond its beaches, emphasizing the state’s cultural richness and natural beauty.”
Premendra Shet emphasized on the significance of the festival in bringing together local communities and fostering a sense of unity. He also highlighted how the event plays a key role in promoting Goan culture and traditions, offering a vibrant platform for cultural expression. Additionally, he spoke about the scenic beauty of Dudhsagar Waterfall, underlining its importance as a major attraction in the region.
Dudhsagar Festavista offered a unique blend of entertainment and culture, featuring an extraordinary lineup of performances by renowned artists. The audience was enthralled by the musical prowess of Band 24K, Kashish and Bollywood Band, DJ Amin, and the comedic brilliance of Ahsaan Qureshi. The lively presence of MC Cedric, who hosted the event with energy and charm, further elevated the festive atmosphere.
The Divli Dance (Lamp Dance) was beautifully performed by the Bal Sati Self-Help Group from Dabal Kirlapal, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the event. Additionally, the students of Our Lady of Piety School, Collem, delivered a compelling act on the theme of “Save the Girl Child,” leaving the audience inspired with their message of awareness.
Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager GTDC, appreciated the efforts of the Chairman of GTDC and the Goa Tourism for hosting such a remarkable event, and acknowledged support of all others dignitaries present on dais in his vote of thanks.
The festival’s serene setting in the hinterland of Goa provided an ideal backdrop for this cultural extravaganza. Visitors were treated to a dynamic fusion of modern entertainment and traditional Goan artistry, making the event a perfect way to celebrate the Christmas spirit.
Dudhsagar Festavista not only captivated its attendees but also reinforced Goa’s image as a destination that goes beyond beaches, focusing on its rich heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant traditions. This festival marked a milestone in GTDC’s ongoing efforts to bring the spotlight to Goa’s lesser-explored regions, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience for all.