TEAM HERALD
OLD GOA: A large number of revelers witnessed the traditional Bonderam festival organized by Sao Mathias Sports Club at Malar in Divar Island on Saturday.
The festival included the traditional parade of flags, which was accompanied by a brass band.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest and Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar said the government would extend all possible help to see that traditional Goan festivals such as Bonderam receive due support and promotion.
Later, President Sao Mathias Sports Club Maxy Vaz said it was the “love and unity that has brought together the villagers of Malar to celebrate.”
The Bonderam festival also included the breaking of coconuts (khatodio), a fancy dress competition for sub-juniors, juniors and seniors, besides a colourful float parade presented by the four wards of Malar, which depicting different aspects of Goan culture.
The police had made elaborate arrangements to ensure that the festival was conducted in a smooth and peaceful manner in the island.
