MAPUSA: Hundreds thronged the streets of Mapusa to witness the colourful floats parade through the town which was flagged on by the Aldona MLA Glenn Ticlo, on Tuesday evening.
The parade witnessed the participation of around 50 floats in six different categories which included traditional (5), family (9), joker/ clown (16), club/ institution (10) and fun/junk (9). The float started at Alankar theatre junction at 5 pm and concluded at the site proposed for the new bus terminus at Mapusa.
There were floats depicting the traditions and Goan culture while others gave out social messages such as to ‘save the tiger and environment’.
The crowd was seen taking videos of the performances and messages given by the floats while others clicked selfies with the clowns and other characters.
Elaborate traffic arrangement was in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
The annual four-day carnival celebrations were called off as a mark of respect for Mapusa MLA Francis Dsouza who passed away on February 14.
The day ended with fun and merry with the next day being Ash Wednesday, known as the first day of lent for the Christian community around the world.
Meanwhile, Palolem entertainment Committee organised a crowd funded carnival float at the world famous Palolem village Tuesday.
Gaspar Coutinho speaking to Herald said that this is the third consecutive year they are organising carnival floats, all of the expenses are borne out of crowd funding he said.
This year a total of 8 group floats and 20 individuals participated, first three prizes were bagged by Pelton Bar and Restaurant, San Francisco guest house and Cocktail and dreams respectively. The procession of floats started from Ovrem.
