When in Goa, you almost feel like you’re on that fun trip, with all those never-ending celebrations.
And, this time round, all you need to do is to leave your vehicle aside and walk through the streets to experience Goa like never before at 'NoMoZo 5.0'.
Organized by Porvorim Rising, the fifth edition of NoMoZo will be held this Sunday (January 28, 2024) spanning a 3 km stretch, from the Directorate of Technical Education to ACDIL High School, in Porvorim.
This one-day cultural event was initially meant for the benefit of Porvorkars, and has today evolved into a cultural hotspot, fostering community engagement and environmental consciousness, attracting Goans and tourists, alike.
NoMoZo has evolved into a cultural hotspot, fostering community engagement and environmental consciousness, attracting Goans and tourists, alike.
Sanjay Netrawalkar, a resident of Porvorim, highlights the growing community-driven spirit of NoMoZo.
He says, “Many residents eagerly look forward to the event as a time to break free from their daily routines.”
He further goes on to emphasize that this platform allows locals to showcase their skills, from food products to various talents like dancing and arts.
NoMoZo actively engages in environmental conservation through dedicated zones, featuring stalls and events promoting healthy living and addressing lifestyle imbalances.
In fact, the event's commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its name, ‘NoMoZo’ (No Motor Zone).
Netrawalkar notes, “Participants of all ages are encouraged to walk or cycle at the event, promoting eco-friendly transportation.”
A senior citizen, Niraj Pai Bhale, underscores NoMoZo’s aim to provide a pollution-free space for various age groups, stating, “It has given a platform for the local people to promote their forte.”
The event provides a stage for participants to showcase their talents, be it musical, martial arts or dance.
The event provides a stage for participants to showcase their talents, be it musical, martial arts, or dance.
The kids’ zone, in particular, stands out, offering talent and skill games, art and craft, and themed photo booths, creating a unique, relaxed experience for families.
Sanjay Alan Rocha, an active citizen from Porvorim, sees NoMoZo as a clean and safe space for people of all ages to connect, enjoy, play and promote fitness and culture.
He says, “It has more than fulfilled its objective as everyone, be it young or old, looks forward to it.”
Sameer Borkar, attending since its inception, sees it as an opportunity for hidden talents in Porvorim to shine, and praises the unique idea of closing the service road for a day.
“This unique idea contributes to environmental conservation, and it’s something we should have more often,” Borkar says further recalling the ‘wow’ feeling from the days when MG Road in Pune used to be closed every Sunday evening.
The kids’ zone stands out, offering talent and skill games, art and craft, and themed photo booths, creating a unique, relaxed experience for families.
All in all NoMoZo 5.0 promises to continue its tradition of uniting the community, showcasing local talents, and advocating for environmental responsibility.
Promising an adventurous experience, residents and visitors are encouraged to join in the festivities.
“Year after year, I’ve seen the event grow bigger. This year, too, we have worked for over 5 months in planning zones, accommodating stall requests. It’s a people’s event and will always be,” concludes Ninil D’Souza, coordinator of this year’s edition.
