Holidaying at a new destination and not getting your hands on the local shopping treasures is a big mistake. If you’re tired of searching for that one spot in Goa that has it all, hold on, the annual Lokotsav celebration is back, and well, ready to amaze.
Organised by the Directorate of Art and Culture in collaboration with the West Zone Cultural Centre (Udaipur), Kala Academy, Sports Authority of Goa and the Corporation of the City of Panaji, the festival is bringing together crafts, treats and exclusive pieces from across the corners of India over 10 days up to January 26, 2025.
If you’re still unsure about attending it, here’s why you should.
SHOPPER’S HAVEN
Reason one is obvious! If you are one of those people who feels better simply upon entering a shopping centre, over the next few days, Darya Sangam at Kala Academy, Panjim will transform into a retail therapy destination.
Handmade garments, footwear, bags, carpets, furniture, paintings and more will be on exhibit from across various states, including Goa.
Don’t stop yourself from getting lost in the maze of stalls displaying this wealth of choices, and supporting the incredible, talented, local artisans. It will be worth it.
TRIBAL CRAFT MELA, A FIRST TIMER
Celebrating Goa’s timeless skills and artistry, the Tribal Craft Mela will make its debut at this edition of the festival.
Showcasing Goa’s traditional crafts and local treasures, like Kunbi sarees and patravali, along with broom-making and coconut leaf crafts, this section at the festival will offer a glimpse into the State’s rich cultural heritage.
FEAST ON INDIAN FLAVOURS
No celebration is complete without delicious food, and at Lokotsav, the aromas in the air guide you towards that.
Savour traditional delights, including Rajasthan’s stuffed kachori, street special chaats, and sweets like jalebi, gulab jamun, kulfi and more at the food court of the festival.
ENJOY THE ENTERTAINMENT
Apart from the handmade pieces on sale and the delectable food, treat yourself to Indian culture like never before at this one-of-a kind festival. The cultural stage at the venue will be graced by around 600 folk artistes from across the country.
Whether it’s the grace of Assam’s Bihu dance, the lively Lawni from Maharashtra, the storytelling of Rajasthan’s Kathputli (puppetry) or even Goa’s Dekhni and Mussal dances, watch some traditional marvels performed across the duration of the festival.
The cultural program will begin at around 6.30 pm daily.
BE PART OF THE SIDE ACTIVITIES
If you still want to do more and learn something new, immerse in other side events that are part of this year’s edition.
Commemorating the centenary birth year of Manohar Rai Sardesai and Jnanpith awardee Ravindra Kelekar, watch out for a painting and sculpture exhibition of Goan artists that will be on display at the Kala Academy Gallery.
You can also enrol for a workshop of the traditional Rajasthani terracotta art of Molela. This will be held from January 20-24, from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm at the Rehearsal Hall of Kala Academy.
So, what are you waiting for? Make your way to this festival that promises artistry and culture at its best and see where the journey takes you.
DETAILS
WHAT: Lokotsav 2025
WHERE: Darya Sangam, Kala Academy, Panjim, Goa
WHEN: January 17-26
TIMINGS: 10 am to 10 pm
ENTRY: Free