Tourism Department to host Deepotsav 2025 showcasing Goa’s festive spirit

The celebrations will commence on October 25 at Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim, with a vibrant line-up of competitions and workshops for families and children, including a cooking competition, fugdi competition, clay modelling workshop and drawing competition for kids, and the Veshbhusha Spardha (Traditional Costume Contest). The evening will feature a formal function followed by a soulful musical performance, Sur Taal. The function will be graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant; Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; ZP, Penha de Franca, Smt. Kavita Naik; MLA, Saligao, Shri Kedar Naik; Sarpanch, VP Penha de Franca, Shri Swapnil Chodankar; Sarpanch, VP Soccorro, Smt. Sonia Pednekar; Tourism Secretary, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS; Director, Department of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik; and Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar.

On October 26, the festivities will move to the Saligao Panchayat Area, Saligao, where the spirit of Deepotsav continues with a series of engaging competitions including Veshbhusha Spardha, Rangoli Making, and Cooking. A cultural evening will follow, featuring Suron Kee Deepawali, a musical concert that promises to enchant audiences with its melodic tribute to the festival of lights. The event will be graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant; Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; Hon’ble MLA, Saligao Constituency, Shri Kedar Naik; Tourism Secretary, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS; Director, Department of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik; MD, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; and Sarpanch, VP Saligao, Shri Lucas Dos Remedios Silva.

The celebrations will continue later that evening at the Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, Mapusa, featuring another round of creative contests and cultural showcases, including a cooking competition,fugdi competition, and the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition. A formal function will follow, leading into the musical showcase Rhythm of Lights. The event will be attended by Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant; Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; Hon’ble Minister for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and Factories & Boilers, Shri Nilkanth Halarnkar; Hon’ble Deputy Speaker, Goa Legislative Assembly, Shri Joshua De Souza; Vice-Chairman, Entertainment Society of Goa and MLA, Siolim Constituency, Smt. Delilah Lobo; Hon’ble MLA, Calangute Constituency, Shri Michael Lobo; and Hon’ble MLA, Aldona Constituency, Shri Carlos Alvares Ferreira.

Speaking about the upcoming festivities, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Deepotsav reflects the essence of Goa, a land where culture, creativity, and community come together in celebration. Festivals like this strengthen our cultural fabric along with highlighting the role of community-led tourism in preserving Goa’s living traditions. Through such initiatives, we aim to promote experiences that are rooted in our heritage while inspiring participation and pride among Goans.”

Echoing these sentiments, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, remarked, “This year’s Deepotsav has been curated to engage every generation. From children’s workshops to traditional performances and culinary showcases, each activity reflects Goa’s inclusive and participative spirit. Events like Deepotsav embody our vision of promoting Goa Beyond Beaches, a destination where culture and creativity shine as brightly as its festive lights.”

Through Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism continues to advance the vision of tourism that connects people through shared experiences and cultural pride. The festival stands as a symbol of Goa’s commitment to preserving its traditions while embracing innovation and inclusivity. As lamps are lit across the state and melodies fill the air, Goa invites all residents and visitors alike to join in this radiant celebration that embodies the true essence of Diwali.

The Department of Tourism warmly invites everyone to be part of Goa Deepotsav 2025 and experience the beauty, joy, and harmony of Goa’s festive traditions illuminated under the glow of countless diyas.