25/03/2016 … panaji … Goa is all set to adorn the colourful spirit of the Shigmotsav festival from 24th March to 7th April 2016. Shigmotsav is celebrated as Goa’s biggest spring festival where the state witnesses several colourful parades, fairs and competitions. A highlight of the parade includes traditional folk dances and enactment of mythological scenes. During this festive celebration, the streets of Goa will be decked with colorful buntings, life size characters dressed in traditional Goan attire and artistic displays of Shigmo themed décor. The float parade will begin at Ponda on 24th March 2016. The city of Panaji will witness the float parade on 26th March 2016. The float parade will culminate in Canacona on 7th April 2016.
Renowned Marathi film actress Mrinal Dev-Kulkarni is expected to attend the festivities in the state on 31st March 2016. Several tourists are anticipated to flock into the state to witness this majestic affair and indulge in true festive spirit of Goa.
Shigmotsav depicts the rich culture, folklore and traditions of Goa and Goan men and women proudly exhibit this heritage through song and dance in the parades and live plays. The parade is a vibrant display of multi-coloured flags, decorated umbrellas, large musical instruments and other colourful elements. This mesmerizing larger-than-life celebration brings fantasy and folk to form a fusion in the floats that parade through the streets. Participants also perform the ‘Rommatamel’, ‘Ghode Modni’ and ‘Fugdi’ dances during the parades
A Mega Performance Entertainment Programme based on the theme of Shigmotsav will be held at Curchorem. The programme will be a vibrant celebration of colour, music and dance and will take place from 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm on 29th, 30th and 31st March 2016.
Hon’ble Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Mr. Nilesh Cabral said, “Shigmotsav is expected to draw in lakhs of locals and tourists (domestic and international) to witness the grandeur of the festival. The festival brings out Goa’s heritage and culture and is listed as one of the must-attend festivals in Goa. Shigmotsav is an initiative of Goa Tourism in association with Local Shigmotsav Celebration Committees. The Director of Tourism, Mr. Sanjeev C. Gauns Dessai was also present for the media briefing.
