Celebrating heritage and sustainability at GHAG silver jubilee in Goa

In Goa, there are quite a number of opportunities all year round when one can get to witness various elements of Goa’s culture under one roof, thanks to pop-up markets and festivals.

One such event is being organised by the Goa Heritage Action Group (GHAG). As part of its Silver Jubilee celebrations, GHAG is set to commemorate World Heritage Day with a celebration at Garcia de Orta garden, Panjim, on April 22 from 4 to 8 pm, which also coincides with World Earth Day.

The event will showcase Goa's rich cultural heritage through traditional crafts, music and dance.

The festivities, originally scheduled for April 18, have been rescheduled due to Holy Week observances. Some of the attractions include live demos of traditional Goan crafts, including mollam, a traditional weaving technique, pottery, and colourful Chitari art from Cuncolim.

The evening will also highlight the work of prominent Goans, including fadista Sonia Shirsat; Festakar Marius Fernandes; artist and researcher, Susmita Gawas; and writer Dr Jayanti Naik.

The evening will also highlight the work of prominent Goans, including fadista Sonia Shirsat; Festakar Marius Fernandes; folk artist and researcher, Susmita Gawas; and writer Dr Jayanti Naik.

The event will also pay homage to women freedom fighters through a book authored by noted Goan historian, Prajal Sakhardande.

Playwright and former speaker of the Assembly, Tomazinho Cardozo, will be the chief guest at the event.

GHAG aims to preserve Goa's dying traditional arts and crafts, and promote the State's cultural identity. The events will showcase a glimpse of Goan heritage and culture through a variety of events.

The promises to be a vibrant tribute to Goa's rich cultural legacy and commitment to sustainability.

WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE: The book, 'History of Women's Contribution to Goa's Freedom Struggle (1928–1961)' by Prof Prajal Sakhardande, will be launched by Prof Sushila Sawant Mendes during the event.

PROGRAMME SCHEDULE

4 pm – 8 pm: HANDS-ON TRADITIONAL CRAFTS

• Clay crafting with Sachin Madge

• Toys from Thatch’ by Sabina Da Cunha

• Bamboo creations with Shalini Gaude

• ‘Earthen Pottery Workshop’ with Master Potter Joseph

• Coconut palm leaf crafting by Georgina Oliveira

• ‘Wooden Wonders’ by Dilkush Chitari

• Authentic Goan bites by Achi Caterer

VISUAL DELIGHTS

• Goan Art by Kevin Rebello

• Watercolour by Vinay Mhambre

EVENING: LIVE MUSIC JAM

Groove to soulful tunes by Mauvin Fernandes (NH17 band member) and friends (Shannon, Rees, Frazer, Jonah, Aldrich, Kevin, Maria, Jerry) and more!

6 pm: FELICITATION CEREMONY

Honouring the icons of Goan art and culture:

•  Sonia Shirsat

• Sushmita Gavas

• Marius Fernandes

• Dr Jayanti Naik

7 pm: BOOK LAUNCH

The book, History of Women's Contribution toFreedom Struggle (1928–1961) by Prof Prajal Sakhardande, will be launched by Prof Sushila Sawant Mendes.

Historian Cynthia Joao e Rebello will present an artwork memento to Prof Sushila Sawant Mendes as a token of appreciation from Kevin Rebello during the event.

The book, 'History of Women's Contribution to Goa's Freedom Struggle (1928–1961)' by Prof Prajal Sakhardande, will be launched by Prof Sushila Sawant Mendes.

7.30 pm: CLASSICAL MELODIES

• Tabla performance by Kanay Dhargalker

• Flute recital by Aldrich Rodrigues

• Violin performance by Jonah Rebello

7.45 pm: Brass band

8 pm: Live music

4 pm – 8.30 pm: Savour Goan flavours and treasures as you indulge in traditional food and explore charming Goan handicrafts under the stars.

DETAILS

WHAT: GHAG's Silver Jubilee

WHERE: Garcia de Orta, Municipal Garden

WHEN: Tuesday, April 22, 2025

TIMINGS: 4 pm onwards