Thousands of Goans gathered in Cranford, Hounslow, for the ‘Goa Day London’ festival, a vibrant celebration of Goan culture, cuisine, and music. The event, held in West London, drew attendees from across the UK and beyond, united by their shared heritage. The day began with a solemn concelebrated Mass, presided over by Goa’s Auxiliary Bishop, Simião Purificação Fernandes.
He was joined by UK-based clergy Fr Renato Andrade and Fr Feroz Fernandes, along with visiting priests Fr Movin Menezes and Fr Luis Alvares. Hymns were beautifully led by the Goan choir from Cranford Catholic Church. In his homily, Bishop Fernandes expressed joy at hearing Konkani spoken in the UK and encouraged Goans to pass on their cultural and linguistic traditions. He also urged the community to support one another amid life’s many challenges.
Following the Mass, the atmosphere transformed into a vibrant cultural fiesta. Attendees enjoyed traditional Goan delicacies while dancing to live music from popular Goan performers. Headlining the show was Goa’s legendary singer, Lorna, whose powerful performance of iconic Konkani songs left the audience enthralled. She was supported by her band, ‘Team Lorna’, and other acts including NH17, ClayJars, Injunction, and soloists such as Elvis Goes, Cajy Pereira, and Nerissa. This was the first performance of bands ClayJars and Injunction in UK.
The entertainment also featured the Jason & Sylvia Dance Academy, comedian Socorro, and young DJ Jonaisa, aged just seven, alongside her father, DJ Jonathan Barretto. Hosting duties were expertly handled by MC Bunty Vaz. The event was organised by Showbiz Global Ltd in collaboration with Impact Events and was graced by guests including UK Minister Seema Malhotra and Hounslow Council Leader Rajanat Shantanu.