Goa Khabar : Saligao Festival 2026, organised at Namoshi Junction,
Guirim, Goa, concluded on a high note after two vibrant days on March 21 and 22.
The festival saw enthusiastic participation from both locals and visitors, celebrating
Goa’s rich cultural heritage through a lively showcase of performances, music, and
immersive local experiences.
Day 1 of the festival featured traditional performances such as Dindi, energetic Dhol
Tasha pathaks, and classical dance presentations including Ganesh Vandana and
Shiva Tandav, followed by a musical performance by Abhanga Repost. The evening
also included the formal inauguration and felicitation of prominent personalities from
the Saligao constituency.
Day 2 continued the celebrations with a strong showcase of talent, featuring an all-
women Dhol Tasha performance, soulful live music acts, and high-energy dance
performance. The evening culminated in a grand musical finale by Sa Re Ga Ma Pa
winner Jasraj Joshi and The Rockers. A fashion show by Goa’s renowned designer
Verma Demelo, themed around the traditional Kunbi fabric of Goa, added a unique
cultural highlight to the evening. Traditional performances like Gondhal further
enriched the festival, bringing depth and authenticity to the overall experience.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Rohan A. Khaunte,
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Kedar J. Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency
& Chairman, GTDC and Managing Director of GTDC, Kuldeep Arolkar, zilla
panchayat members, sarpanch and other key dignitaries and officials.
On both days of the festival, prominent personalities and Bhajani artists from the
Saligao constituency were felicitated. The honours were presented by the Hon’ble
Minister for Tourism and the Chairman of GTDC on Day 1, and by the Chairman of
GTDC on Day 2.
Speaking on the occasion, Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism said,
“The Saligao Festival is a wonderful reflection of Goa’s vibrant cultural identity and
community spirit. Such initiatives enable us to bring authentic Goan traditions to the
forefront while encouraging visitors to experience the rich diversity of the state
beyond its beaches.”
Adding to this, Kedar J. Naik, Hon’ble MLA Saligao Constituency & Chairman,
GTDC, said, “The Saligao Festival reflects how deeply culture is woven into
everyday life in Goa. What makes it special is the way local communities come
together to keep these traditions alive while welcoming visitors to experience them
firsthand. Platforms like these help us showcase a more authentic side of Goa’’
Bringing together the essence of Goa’s traditions and contemporary cultural
expressions, the festival showcased a diverse line-up of folk performances, live
music, and culinary experiences, reinforcing the state’s positioning as a destination
that offers immersive cultural experiences beyond its beaches. Festivals in Goa
continue to play a key role in showcasing the state’s unique blend of music, dance,
and cuisine that attract both domestic and international visitors.
The successful conclusion of the Saligao festival underscores the continued focus on
promoting tourism and celebrating Goa’s cultural landscape across regions, while
supporting local artists, performers, and communities.
