TORONTO
Vibrant colours and rich cultural heritage of Goa took centre stage at the ‘Viva Goa Festival’ at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga on July 27.
This year's festival commemorated World Goa Day, bringing together Goans and enthusiasts of Indo-Luso cultures for a day filled with music, dance, food, and festivities.
With an attendance of over 10,000 attendees, the Viva Goa Festival transformed Mississauga into a bustling hub of Goan, Portuguese, Brazilian and Indian tradition and celebration.
The event began with a Thanksgiving Mass in the morning.
There were three live stages, an outdoor stage, Goan Pavilion, Indo Luso Pavilion.
The stages featured live performances by renowned artistes, including the legendary Remo Fernandes and his band, ‘The Microwave Papadums’, who captivated the audience with his electrifying hits.
Other star attractions included Sonia Shirsat, the Global ambassador of Goan Music who filled the air with her powerful voice, backed by Allen Abreo, internet sensation Tammy & Roy, Goa’s Konkani pop sensation O’luv, Music Director Norman Cardozo, Jazz maestro, Ben & Josh Fernandez from New Zealand and from the UK, Bismarc Pinto, who rocked the stage along with the ‘Goa Amigos’.
In addition, there were musical performances by local talent, renowned violinist and performer Grenville Pinto, local bands and young talent.
The festival showcased a variety of cultural exhibits and artisan stalls, offering attendees a taste of Goa's unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences. From traditional folk dances to modern fusion acts, the festival celebrated the diverse expressions of Goan culture. The festival also featured a colourful parade featuring various cultural attire.
"We are thrilled to have hosted such a successful celebration of Goan heritage and Indo-Luso cultures," said Selwyn Collaco, President of the Goan Overseas Association and organiser of the festival.
"The Viva Goa Festival is a testament to the vibrant spirit and rich traditions that define Goa, and it was a joy to see our community come together in unity to honour and share these with the wider public."
The festival also featured interactive activities and games organised by the youth committee, engaging audiences of all ages and fostering a sense of community and connection.
Attendees were treated to a variety of traditional Goan dishes, reflecting the region's culinary diversity and cultural richness.
Asked what was different this year, Selwyn replied: “In the past, we showcased our culture among ourselves. This year, our vision was to extend beyond the so-called Goan backyard and take our culture, cuisine and music mainstream alongside other cultures by creating a sense of pride amongst all Goans and more so, the younger generations. Special thanks and acknowledgement to all volunteers, sponsors and performers who worked tirelessly to make the festival a grand success”.
“The ‘Viva Goa Festival’ is an annual event supported by volunteers, sponsors, including this year’s Platinum sponsor, ICICI Bank Canada, who play a crucial role in bringing this celebration to life.”
“As we look forward to future of the festival and the Goan community at large, the G.O.A., the Goan community non-for-profit organisation, remains committed to promoting and preserving the rich cultural tapestry and heritage of Goa in our adopted land Canada and strengthening the bonds, which we have been doing so for the past 54 years,” Selwyn added.
