Come the last quarter of every year, and it is usually good reason for those who look forward to a throwback to Goa’s colonial era to rejoice. This is usually the time-frame that is dedicated to the Semana da Cultura Indo Portuguesa (Goa). Established in the year 2008, the initiative of the Portuguese Consulate in Goa and other local organisations has stood firmly by their aim and objective to maintain and keep alive the unique Goan culture and Goan identity.
Earlier editions of this event acted as a platform for the portrayal of various forms of Goan culture, ranging from art, to cuisine, to films and other art forms showcased by Goan and Portuguese artistes who have performed in Goa and enthralled local audiences. Deciding to take things a step further, the fourth edition of the Semana da Cultura Indo Portuguesa (Goa) was held in Lisbon, Portugal.
Jose Elmano Coelho Pereira, Chairman of the Executive Committee planning the event said, “Indian and Portugal, both regions are steeped in rich heritage and culture. India is a mingling of diverse cultures, all special in their own way. Goa too has its own unique identity and culture which is a blend of Indian and western nuances. Goa has assimilated the essence of both regions where people coexist in harmony and joy. Through this event – Semana da Cultura Indo – Portuguesa (Goa) – we would like to share and enjoy the essence of our diverse culture and keep the unique Goan identity alive.”
The Semana Da Cultura Indo-Portuguesa (Goa) celebrations will kick off with an interactive session on ‘Goan Diaspora’ on November 6, at Sunaparanta in Altinho. Celebrated author and publisher Frederick Noronha will deliver the key note address on Goan Diaspora at the inaugural event. Edgar Valles, the President of Casa de Goa in Lisbon, and Rene Barretto will also be an active part of the interaction. As a part of the event, an exhibition of photographs by author Savia Viegas, titled ‘Moments, Memory & Memorabilia’, will be inaugurated by Francis De Souza, the Deputy Chief Minister of Goa. From November 10-14, the exhibition will move from Sunaparanta to Carpe Diem in Majorda.
However, the festivities do not end there. Continuing with the celebrations the Semana da Cultura Indo Portuguesa (Goa) will host the fado singing competition on November 15, at Institute Menezes Braganza, in an attempt to bolster the art form in Goa.
Over time, however, it has been made evident that one of the highlights of the cultural celebration is the two-day food and music festival which showcases Goan – Portuguese cuisine. Scheduled to be held at the Taleigao Community centre on November 17 and 18, the event will see a host of Goan musicians perform over the course of the evening.
The final highlight of the Semana Da Cultura Indo-Portuguesa (Goa) is a distinct selection of films from Lusophone countries that will be showcased through the Lusofonia Film Festival, which will be held at Maquinez Palace in Panjim between December 11 and 14.
All in all, there is much in store fans of all things Indo-Portuguese.
