Media Release
Doha, Nov 24: World Goa Day celebrations serve as a global reminder of Goan identity, offering an opportunity for Goans and others to connect with the state’s rich traditions and culture.
The 2024 edition of World Goa Day was celebrated with grandeur at the exotic Al Riyadh ballroom of Treffen House on Nov 22, organized by the Goan Welfare Association (GWA), Qatar, in collaboration with Orbit Events and Marketing. The event turned into a lively evening, with people from various communities joining the celebration.
The program highlighted Goan traditions, culture, art, language, music, and costumes. The Goan duo band Ryan N Naisa stole the show with an energetic performance that had the crowd on their feet. They were complemented by DJ Nelson, whose scintillating music and dynamic sound system captivated the audience.
In his welcome address, Simon D’Silva recited a poem sent by Rene Barretto, the global convenor of World Goa Day based in the UK, and shared insights on the event’s significance. The day commemorates the inclusion of Konkani in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution on Aug 20, 1992, a historic milestone for Goa. This year marked the 25th edition of World Goa Day.
The event saw the presence of several prominent personalities. The chief guest was Fr Rosario Colaco, in-charge of the Konkani-speaking community, while the guest of honour was Fr Lester Cardoso, a visiting priest from Goa. Special guests included Jassim Al Sorour, Mohammed Al Kuwari, Aloysius D’Souza, president of the Konkani-speaking community of Our Lady of Rosary Church, Deepak Shetty, vice president of the Indian Cultural Benevolent Forum (ICBF) under the aegis of the Indian Embassy, Subramanya Hebbagelu, vice president of the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC), and Priya Bedi, president of the Indian Women’s Association (IWA).
In his address, Fr Rosario praised Simon D’Silva and the organizing team for bringing the community together. Jassim commended the Goan community for their efforts and pledged support for future events. Deepak Shetty lauded the GWA’s achievements during the pandemic, including arranging chartered flights for Goans stranded in Qatar. Priya Bedi shared her admiration for GWA’s events, particularly the May Queen Ball.
Simon D’Silva felicitated Fr Rosario Colaco, Fr Lester Cardoso, and Fr Paulraj Devaraj, presenting them with mementos in appreciation of their dedicated service to the community.
The traditional fashion parade was a major attraction, showcasing Goa’s heritage through its blend of Portuguese colonial influences and local traditions. The parade emphasized unity and inclusivity, with participants representing Goa’s past and present. Elijah and Kiara Noronha were declared winners, while Godfrey and Effey Noronha were the runners-up. The judges were Rinaldo Fernandes, founder of The HandyGoan Automation, and Fr Rosario Colaco.
The versatile singer Joyce Mascarenhas, who served as the master of ceremonies, impressed the audience with her eloquence and wit.
Exciting spot and lucky prizes added to the evening’s festivities, with winners including Valisa Noronha, Suzatha Velmurugan, Priya Bedi, Xavier Fernandes, and Cletus Mendonsa.
Cajetan Rodrigues, vice president of GWA, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to sponsors and supporters, including Allan Desouza, IBIS & Adagio, Treffen House, DJ Nelson, Effey Noronha, Joyce Mascarenhas, Kenneth Vaz, Houri Jadeeda Ladies Saloon, and New Risha Beauty Saloon. Rodrigues also thanked all the guests for their patronage, making the event a grand success.