From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld News Network - Panaji

Panaji, Feb 19: As Goa gets set to host series of Carnival float parades, Renowned Goan musician  Roque Tome Fernandes has been selected as King Momo for Goa Carnaval, this year.

A committee constituted by Goa Tourism department today selected Roque Fernandes who was one among the four applicants aspiring to lead Goa Carnaval between February 25-28, 2017.

King Momo is a mythological figure who symbolically rules the State during Carnival time and also leads the float parades held across the state.

Roque Fernandes, aged 65 and resident of Panaji, is a retired government employee. He is a well known musician and popular figure in the Goan entertainment industry.

Fernandes has played key roles in Mando (traditional dance) festivals and many top Goan cultural events. He is also a popular figure at the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT), dressed as King Momo welcoming foreign tourists on cruise liners arriving at the Port.

For Fernandes, this is his fifth time as King Momo and his selection came after a stiff competition from three other contestants.

Thrilled to be King Momo once again, Fernandes said, “ I love Goa, I love to be King Momo and I am all set to enthrall Goa and all visitors to the State for the four-day Carnival celebrations.”

King Momo’s entourage will lead the Carnival float parades at the four centres: Panaji, (February 25), Margao (February 26), Vasco (February 27) and Mapusa (February 28).

Carnival float parades will also be held in Curchorem and Shiroda on February 27 and at Ponda on February 28.