Goa never ceases to celebrate and this year, too, it is ready with the roundup of its most-awaited festive events -- Carnival and Shigmo -- that attract a large number of tourists to Goa.
This year, the Tourism Department is organising Carnival in Porvorim, Panjim, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa from February 9, 2024, to February 13, 2024, with the inclusion of many traditional elements.
A committee that has been appointed has been allotted an amount of Rs 20,00,000 to create a memorable and authentic experience for visitors during the celebrations.
Similarly, the rich cultural heritage of Goa will also be showcased through Shigmotsav, which will be held in Ponda, Calangute, Sankhali, Bicholim, Valpoi, Panjim, Porvorim, Pernem, Canacona, Vasco, Shiroda, Curchorem, Quepem, Dharbandora, Margao, Mapusa, Sanguem and Cuncolim from March 26, 2024 to April 8, 2024.
The prizes for Shigmotsav will be as follows: Chitrarath Rs 75,000; Romtamel – Rs 75,000; Folk dance – Rs 25,000; Individual fancy dress competition for senior and juniors – Rs 10,000.
The expenditure allocated for the celebrations in Panjim is Rs 25,00,000; Margao, Vasco and Ponda will receive Rs 15,00,000, while the other towns will get Rs 10,00,000.
Shiv Jayanti, the celebration of the 350th anniversary of the coronation of the Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj, will take place on February 19, 2024.
On this occasion, grand festivities will be organised in Panjim, Margao, Mapusa, Mormugao, Ponda, Sankhali, Porvorim, Bicholim.
On January 19, 2024, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Director of Tourism, Suneel Anchipaka and other officials met to discuss the successful execution of the Carnival and Shigmo float parades. The meeting also discussed the organistaion of the Shiv Jayanti celebartions.
Various aspects of planning such as logistics, coordination and promotion of these events were discussed.
The exchange of ideas focused on enhancing the experience for, both, locals and tourists, and in the bargain, strengthen Goa's position as a vibrant tourist destination renowned for its rich cultural heritage.