Goa Carnival – Blend of Culture and Heritage

If you are planning out a trip to India this March, and have not figured out the exact destination, here is a suggestion for you! The best carnival festival in Goa is yet to start on Saturday, 2 March.

An incarnation of celebration in Goa, the carnival is the most famous of all festivals, not only in our country but all over Asia. The zeal and enthusiasm that people show bring alive every nook and corner of Goa.

History

The Goa carnival was started and brought to India by Portuguese, during their rule.

Earlier, it had a Portuguese flavor, but with time, the carnival has taken the essence of Goan culture, and have received a boost. An old belief states that the carnival is organized at the end of the winter season, just to consume the stored and stocked winter food supplies.

People from all walks of life dwell in the madness of the festival with full energy and warmth.

Also known as ‘ Viva Carnival Goa’ this marks the peak season for Goa tourism.

Celebration!

The Goa festival is celebrated with full vigour and sparkle. It is the most awaited event in the state. You can get this from the fact that preparations start in December to make the carnival a huge success. And even a week before the carnival, folk of boys and girls are seen walking in the streets wearing masks and swords playing with their friends with utmost excitement.

Short plays portraying Goan culture and beauty are organized along with music, dance, and entertainment.

The day is marked by colorful and musical parades initiating in the capital Panaji. The grand march led by ‘King Momo’ depicts the show of extreme fun and excitement. The carcade is accompanied by folk of dancers, singers, and poets dressed as fortune-tellers.

Fire-eaters, clowns, and jesters, all follow King Momo during this imposing march starting from Panaji and going till Mapusa, Margao, and Vasco.

There are cultural competitions as well, for singing, dancing, and acting. Judges from different states, watch the performances and rate them.

Fun, Food and Drinks

Any celebration is incomplete without food and drinks. You can participate in fun games and sports competition and enjoy the exotic flavors of mouth-watering Goan delicacies or dance on the beat of DJs.

To amplify the cheers, people play with colors, just like Holi. The sound of violins, drums, and cymbals saturate the air with the essence of happiness and amusement.

Shrove Tuesday

The last day of the best carnival festival in Goa is marked by prize distribution for the best performances. The festival is concluded with the famous black-and-red dance held by Clube Nacional in Panaji. If you are a dance lover, you can also put on your finest red and black apparels and be a part of the mesmerizing event.

The Goa carnival 2019 starts on March 2, 2019 (Saturday) and will continue till March 5, 2019 (Tuesday). If you wish to participate and soak into the rich heritage of Goa, get your flights to Goa booked in advance.