Goa Carnival
The Goa Carnival held in the month of February every year is the most waited event in the country. Held in mid February for a week the Goa carnival was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over the state for five hundred years. Known for its colorful and lively processions, folk dances and musical bands the Goa Carnival draws people from all across the globe every year. Among the various festivals and feasts in Goa the Carnival is the most celebrated occasion of the region.
Mainly a three day event meant for Christians the Goa carnival is stretched to a week and is enjoyed by people of different religions and cultures. Although the concept of the Goa carnival was originated exclusively for the people of the state, today it has crossed all boundaries and invites people not only from India but the world at large.
The carnival is said to be an integral part of Portuguese culture in which flour, eggs, mud, sand filled gloves and dirty water and used pots and pans are thrown out of the windows. This is done to discard the old and welcome the new to mark the beginning of the holy Lent period. Keeping the essence of the Portuguese culture alive, a king is chosen who is meant to preside over the three day festivity that is witnessed by millions of people.
The streets come alive with lights, music and festivities and mark the beginning of the Goa Carnival. Huge parades march the state with loud bands and dances throughout the day and nights. A perfect time for merry making, drinking and feasting the Goa Carnival is unique to Goa and not celebrated anywhere else in the country.
Celebrated in true western style the preparations for the Carnival begin three months in advance. Children perform plays and youngsters perform different forms of folk dance. There are also a number of games and dance completions held and the winners receive prizes from the King.
Mainly a three day event meant for Christians the Goa carnival is stretched to a week and is enjoyed by people of different religions and cultures. Although the concept of the Goa carnival was originated exclusively for the people of the state, today it has crossed all boundaries and invites people not only from India but the world at large.
The carnival is said to be an integral part of Portuguese culture in which flour, eggs, mud, sand filled gloves and dirty water and used pots and pans are thrown out of the windows. This is done to discard the old and welcome the new to mark the beginning of the holy Lent period. Keeping the essence of the Portuguese culture alive, a king is chosen who is meant to preside over the three day festivity that is witnessed by millions of people.
The streets come alive with lights, music and festivities and mark the beginning of the Goa Carnival. Huge parades march the state with loud bands and dances throughout the day and nights. A perfect time for merry making, drinking and feasting the Goa Carnival is unique to Goa and not celebrated anywhere else in the country.
Celebrated in true western style the preparations for the Carnival begin three months in advance. Children perform plays and youngsters perform different forms of folk dance. There are also a number of games and dance completions held and the winners receive prizes from the King.