Poders, ghannekars, fishermen and other traditional occupations from Goa all made their way to Panjim for the annual Carnival parade. The North of Goa was represented by floats like Goan bakery from Morjim, an elephant from Revora, bullfighting from Kodxel, a scorpion from Parra, an elephant from Guirim, Goan sweets from Nagoa, a dragon and Groot from the Marvel Universe and a float on stationary items from Mapusa. The frightening eyes of the wild boar and the fishermen float, both from Bastora were also spotted. Taleigao and Bhatlem had floats on octopuses while the Merces float was based on Aladdin’s genie.
South Goa brought in creative floats like Goan sweets from Quepem, float on frogs from Loutolim, Benaulim brought in floats on a honeybee and a tiger ant. Curtorim showcased pottery while Curchorem showed the wonders of the cashews. Agali Margao displayed a collection of Goan sweets and bamboo weavers. Ponda were proud of the Goan breads and St Estevam showed the hard work that goes behind grinding oil from coconuts.
Individual as well as family floats like a wedding entourage from Cortalim and a coal train from Margao also added amusement for the onlookers. Important topics on saving the environment, saving turtles, living with diabetes, consequences of drunk driving and save water were highlighted.
From Samba beats to Goan numbers with a mix of Spanish, Hindi, Marathi to even African music kept the people entertained. With three more days of Carnival, everyone can be heard chanting ‘Viva Carnival’.
