With colourful streamers fluttering in the breeze, and intricate masks adorning the streets, the capital city of Panjim on Saturday, March 1, 2025, set the stage for its much-awaited Carnival festival and the next few days of merriment.
The real magic, however, happened when the streets came alive with number of people, including tourists, who came from far and wide to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
The summer heat didn't deter people, who began spreading out on the Dayanand Bandodkar Road, overlooking the Mandovi River, as early as 3.30 pm. With balloons, bright/coloured wigs, and glossy masks, they stood with phones in hand, eagerly hoping to capture the best moments of the revelry.
Accompanied by the traditional rhythms of the brass band, the dignitaries including Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Indian Actress Varsha Usgaonkar added to the grandeur, as they graced the celebration.
At 4.36 pm, the symbolic release of balloons into the sky marked the official launch of the Carnival, paving the way for the colourful float parades.
The heart of the celebrations was marked by the grand parade, led by this year's King Momo, Cleeven Mathew Fernandes, who was accompanied by beautiful ladies by his side. Radiating pure carnival vibes, the entourage moved through the crowd with infectious smiles, occasionally tossing sweets to the onlookers.
"Long live Carnival, Long live Goa, Viva Carnival!" King Momo read his decree, as the crowd erupted in cheers.
Among the sea of jubilant faces, one tourist, dressed in a bright yellow outfit to match the balloon in her hand, was thrilled to see King Momo and waved back at him. Meanwhile, her husband captured the moment, recording the lively scene on his phone.
"We're really enjoying it," she said, when asked to share her experience. "We’re from Delhi, and this is our first time at Carnival," she added with a smile.
It wasn’t just this couple, people of all ages gathered to witness what Goa’s Carnival had to offer.
Dressed in shorts, a cap, and sunglasses, Chris was wearing the perfect attire for Goa’s humid weather. All the way from the United States, he and his friend were already clicking photos, even before the floats could start.
“It’s lots of fun—great music, great dancing, lots of colours, and good energy,” said Chris, clearly enjoying his first Carnival experience.
As the colourful floats lined up along the streets, they weren’t just expressions of creativity and artistic flair—they carried deeper meanings, addressing pressing social concerns.
Among the eye-catching displays were floats that highlighted the dangers of drinking and driving, health prevention campaigns for tuberculosis and rabies. One float that stood out in particular was Goynchi Pormollit Fulam (Goa’s Fragrant Flowers), presented by a group from Fatorda.
According to the Panjim Carnival Committee, this year there were around nine Traditional, 14 Club and Institution, four Family, eight Fun Junk cars, and 18 Clown/Joker entries in various categories.
It was truly a spectacle to watch a group of navy personnel as part of the festivities. The sight of the Navy personnel marching and performing alongside revellers added a layer of honour and dignity to the usually carefree celebrations.
Despite some glitches, including delays, traffic, and poor road conditions, the fun was undeniable. The festivities are set to continue over the next three days in Goa.
And if you missed the action in Panjim, worry not, head to Margao (South Goa) on Sunday, March 2, in Vasco (South Goa) on March 3 and in Mapusa and Morjim (both in North Goa) on March 4 to experience the celebrations.