Last month, Goa witnessed the power of human emotions and the universal desire for meaning and purpose. While the former was evident in the films showcased at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), the latter was seen at the 18th decennial exposition of the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa.
The two events occurred simultaneously. While Panjim rolled out the red carpet for film stars from both Bollywood and Hollywood, the former capital of Goa, and Goa’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Goa, prepared to host one of the greatest events of the decade—the 18th exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier, an event that takes place once every 10 years.
Delegates, pilgrims, and tourists flocked to the State, filling up hotels and accommodations in and around the capital city, with bookings extending well into the next three months.
While the capital city, Panjim, exuded a glitzy, cinematic vibe with artsy professionals attending the nine-day IFFI gala, the exposition stood in stark contrast, centered on deep devotion and faith.
This spiritual event transcended boundaries, drawing participants from across the globe, including from countries like Brazil, Russia, Italy, and Portugal, alongside people of diverse faiths, all converging in Goa for this sacred sojourn.
In the lead-up to these two major events, Goa faced criticism and negative reports about its tourism, with claims it was no longer a favoured destination.
Yet, as the events unfolded, Goa rose to the occasion, seamlessly balancing the sacred and the cinematic. What does this remarkable duality reveal about the soul of this coastal paradise?
For a long time, Goa has been known for its great hospitality, and in recent years, it has hosted many significant events.
However, due to some hiccups in management and governance, there have been ups and downs. The backlash from some online reports, however, did not reflect the State’s true capability.
The decennial exposition that many eagerly anticipated, saw an opening ceremony conducted with great organisation and precision. Although the buzz was slow at the start, the inaugural and religious devotion portrayal was a great moment of pride.
The exposition committee managed the entire inaugural meticulously. The turnout of a large number of devotees, pilgrim groups, priests and members of different religious orders was well acknowledged. The Eucharistic celebration, the choir and a beautifully designed e-carriage were the highlights of the spiritual spectacle on day one.
Another noteworthy mention was the human chain comprising hundreds of youth alongside the elderly. For those who watched it live or saw drone footage, the scene offered both a ‘wow’ moment and a spiritual film-like experience. The systematic arrangements were well-handled even on the feast day, which drew thousands to Old Goa.
One can see daily on the newspapers and digital handles, stories of pilgrims who have come here in great faith and devotion to St Francis Xavier seeking favours and his intercession. In terms of spiritual significance, the exposition was one of the biggest events Goa hosted this year and will continue until January 5, 2025.
In contrast, the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) hosted by the National Film Development Corporation of India and the Entertainment Society of Goa, failed to meet expectations despite commendable efforts.
As per the feedback from a few delegates, especially young film aspirants and students, it has become clear that IFFI served as an opportunity for them to build contacts and relationships. While they enjoyed watching films, the rest of their time was spent exploring Goa. The film festival offered them a unique blend of cinema and culture.
However, for foreign tourists, who visited the State when the two events were running concurrently, it was about nostalgia— they saw a different Goa before them.
They reminisced about the good old days and said that there was much more to explore here than its popular tourist spots.
In the end, despite the challenges of hosting such large-scale events simultaneously, Goa proved its resilience and adaptability. It showcased its ability to offer something for everyone—from spiritual pilgrimages to artistic celebrations.
For a State often defined by its beaches, parties and nightlife, the hosting of these two important events at one time proved that Goa is much more—a land where tradition, faith and modernity can blend seamlessly.