A key feature of the 'Ekvottachem Fest' was the Balçaoacheo Gozalli, a platform where notable personalities shared their knowledge and experiences.
PANAJI
The picturesque village of Corlim came alive on Republic Day with the vibrant ‘Ekvottachem Fest’, a unique celebration of unity, inclusivity, and Goa’s rich cultural heritage. Hosted by Mariano and Perpetua Ferrao, the festival brought together people from diverse backgrounds to mark this significant occasion in a spirit of harmony and togetherness.
The day began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by distinguished guests, including Dean Suresh Kunkalikar, Dominic D’Souza, Reshma Namajwale, Anuradha Tipu Vargaonkar, and Genevieve Fernandes, setting the tone for a day filled with culture, tradition, and community engagement.
Ekvottachem Fest, meaning “Festival of Unity,” lived up to its name by creating an inclusive space that welcomed participants from Corlim, Panaji, Mapusa, Divar, Loutolim, Nuvem, and beyond. In a remarkable gesture of inclusivity, individuals with disabilities were also actively involved, ensuring the festival was a celebration for all.
Sustainability at its core, the festival embraced a strict zero-waste philosophy, reflecting its deep commitment to sustainability. By highlighting eco-friendly practices and traditional ways of living, the event served as a model for environmentally conscious celebrations.
A key feature of the fest was the Balçaoacheo Gozalli, a platform where notable personalities like Miguel Braganza, Professor Carmelito Andrade, and senior journalist Prakash Kamat shared their knowledge and experiences. Attendees were treated to nostalgic glimpses of Goa’s traditional lifestyle through activities such as cashew roasting, salt fish drying, milking cows, and weaving rattan chairs (roteassão).
The crowd was enthralled by a unique dance performed with coconut shells, conceptualised by Dr Gwendolyn de Ornelas, as well as live musical performances by talented artists such as Rozita Heredia (Divar), Reshma Namajwale (Corlim), Anuradha Tipu Vargaonkar (Bhoma), and many others. Their renditions of classic Konkani songs showcased Goa’s vibrant musical heritage.
The festival also celebrated Goa’s culinary and artisanal traditions. Stunning displays of Goan bread, fresh produce, fruits, and traditional percussion instruments adorned the venue. Workshops on making local delicacies such as seviyan, ragi/millet ladoos, and pinaca provided attendees with a taste of Goa’s culinary diversity and fostered a sense of shared values.
One of the festival’s highlights was the Festacarachi Pasoi, a heritage walk led by Dean Suresh Kunkalikar, which explored Corlim’s indigenous trees, medicinal plants, and historic landmarks. This immersive experience connected participants with the village’s cultural and natural roots while emphasising the importance of preserving local biodiversity.
A milestone celebration, as festival director Marius Fernandes approaches his 100th community festival, he was surprised with a commemorative 2025 Festaçar Calendar, presented by Professor Carmelito Andrade. The calendar featured vibrant photos and documentation of 12 festivals, capturing the essence of Goa’s cultural vibrancy.
The Ekvottachem Fest left a lasting impression on all who attended, standing as a testament to Goa’s rich cultural heritage, inclusivity, and commitment to sustainability. It was a true celebration of unity in diversity, bringing the community closer on this significant national day.
