A riot of colours: Panaji comes alive as Carnival festivities kick off

A riot of colours: Panaji comes alive as Carnival festivities kick off The city of Panaji wore a festive look on Saturday as the Carnival festivities kicked off with the colorful float parade. Held along the traditional route from new Patto Bridge to Campal Ground, the parade was flagged off at the Old Secretariat Building by the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the presence of Minister of Tourism Rohan Khaunte, Panaji mayor Rohit Monserrate, MLA of Taleigao Jennifer Monserrate, chief secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel, secretary tourism Sanjeev Ahuja, director of tourism Suneel Anchipaka, and other dignitaries. Sawant, commended the energy and dedication of the performers and participants. “From the meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the parade to the proud showcasing of our rich culture and heritage, it is evident that countless hours of effort have gone into making this celebration a resounding success. With the collective energy and spirit of hundreds gathered here today, I am confident that we will sustain this vibrant atmosphere of joy and enjoyment throughout the remaining three days of festivities,” he said. Speaking on the occasion, Khaunte said that the Carnival parade symbolized not only the festivities of the present but also heralded Goa’s promising future under the innovative approach of regenerative tourism championed by Goa Tourism. Conveying his best wishes to the people of Goa and tourists who have come down, he said, “Eat, drink, and be merry. But be responsible.” In a tweet, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane said the float of the Directorate of Health Services aimed to highlight PM Narendra Modi’s program at the grassroots level. Post this, King Momo 2024 Clive Anthony Gracias declared the festivities open by reading his official royal decree. “Make merry, break free, and enjoy to the fullest. Have lots of fun, but sensibly and responsibly. Let peace, joy, and fun prevail during my glorious reign,” he declared. The parade which went on for over three hours included floats that depicted various aspects of Goan culture and raised awareness about social, environmental, and health issues. These included floats by the Corporation of the City of Panaji, Directorate of Health Services, and the Navy, as also other groups like St. Jerome Boys of Mapusa; Amche Daiz, Quepem, which marked 25 years of participation in the floats parade; St Anthony Boys of Agalli, Fatorda; and many more. This year’s Carnaval theme focused on honoring Goan traditions and heritage, aligning with Goa Tourism’s Regenerative Tourism approach. For a change, there were not many commercial floats. Over the next few days, the float parade will be held in Margao (February 11), Vasco (February 12), Mapusa and Morjim