Goa is known to be a destination for its enjoyable experience through travel, food and adventure.
However, there is more to it when one resides in Goa.
Being a city dominated by the Christian population, one will observe how Christian festivals are celebrated in true spirit in Goa alongside the fun and frolic atmosphere of this place.
In the month of February, a carnival takes place in Goa just before the lent which is quite exhilarating, filled with positive energy and enthusiasm.
This year’s carnival is going to take place from 22nd to 25th February 2020.
One does not need any entry pass or ticket to the carnival, but only gusto and zest to take part in the celebrations.
Everyone is invited to be part of it with open hands.
Tracing the roots of Goa Carnival, it was brought about by the Portuguese when they had colonized this state in the 18th century.
Though originally the celebrations were introduced by the Romans and the Greeks, it was later assimilated by the Portuguese as well in their culture.
Aiming to make their presence and hegemony powerful in their slice of India, this festivity was introduced with Portuguese influence.
However, with time, this event incorporated the essence of Goan culture and till now, the Goans identify themselves with this celebration too.
This fete marks the fiesta before the month of Lent, a period of abstention and fasting due to which people refrain from consuming meat and other particular food products.
The Lent culminates into Easter and is important to the Christians.
Hence, the carnival is an important opportunity to enjoy the treats for the last time before Lent.
This is now a major tourist attraction enticing a number of people to live the moments over these four days, promoting Goa via cultural tourism.
Some of the notable features of the Goa Carnival are given below:
1. Saturday Parade - a massive parade commencing the celebration led by King Momo, surrounded by all entertainers dressed in fancy clothes. The king leads the procession throughout the streets of Panaji, Margao and Vasco.
2. Dance in traditional attire - Men and women dress up in the finest red and black outfits and with masks and dance the night away to the beats of the bands, fire eaters and other revellers that are a part of the colourful procession.
3. Folk Plays - They are known as ‘Khell’ or ‘Fell’ where the actors perform acts especially the stories on human foolishness accompanied by musical background, particularly by Ghumat- a Goan percussion instrument.
4. Other Amusements - Apart from the above, one can thoroughly enjoy in various functions and events such as enjoying the colourfully decorated floats, cheer or participate in the various sports competitions, having delicious Goan cuisine and the Goan drink Feni -made from cashews, fashion shows, DJ Nights and short.
The Carnival is seen as a prime time to confess one’s love for the other.
All the eateries prepare their best dishes especially the seafood on the Carnival Days.
People enjoy the festival by playing with colours instead of using eggs that were done before.
Goa carnival is currently the most awaited festival in the month of February.
This can be gauged with the fact that the preparations start from December itself marking the carnival a roaring success.
Those who possess apartments, flats in South Goa are especially lucky to witness this visual treat every year marked by dance, music and entertainment making the carnival a lively experience as they walk down the streets of both North and South Goa.
The festival is marked with fun-filled days incorporating drinking, dancing and music which goes on till late night of the last day and hence the next day marks the commencement of Lent.
Goa Carnival is a day of fun for one and all. It is an event one should always have in one’s bucket list. One should not miss out on such a grand cultural extravaganza!
By Essen Group - A Real estate Developers & Builders in Goa
