Go Goa in Toronto

Apart from showcasing the vibrant culture of Goa --which was once a Portuguese colony-- through its music, culture and cuisine, the festival also highlighted the immigrant Goan identity and heritage that made its mark in Canada.

“It’s an annual event which we celebrate to mark the vibrancy and zestful life and culture of Goa,” said Selwyn Collaco, President of GOA. “This is a colossal event that brings the entire community together over food, music and unlimited fun, which Goa is all about.”

Indian Consul General Toronto, Dinesh Bhatia also graced the occasion, congratulating the People of Indian Origin (PIOs) for their exceptional ability to organise and meet in such a big scale to celebrate the rich Indian culture.

The event started off with the singing the national anthem followed by a grand parade exhibiting the Goan lifestyle and culture while songs, folk dances and rain dances kept everyone entertained throughout the day.

Award winning actor Palomi Ghosh, debutante heroine from the Konkani movie Nachom-ja Kumpasar -- which was screened at the Albion theatres on Sunday -- performed a few numbers on stage along with the famous band, Goa Amigos.

“It’s my first Goan movie and I am enthralled with the response from the people of Toronto,” said Palomi. “I have always heard so much about Toronto from a lot of people and family but this time when I actually came over here, I enjoyed the warmth and receptiveness of people over here.”

Sensational pop singer Olavo Rodriguez, who goes by the stage name O’Luv, regaled the audience with his sang his famous “Love you Goa” and a few songs in Konkani, which is the Goan state language.

“It was a great opportunity to meet up with all and celebrate together. There were lot of entertainment and fun. I just loved the food and music amongst all,” said Jerry Lobo, one of the organisers of the event.

Apart from music and dance, food played an important part in the weekend’s celebration with people queuing up tot taste popular Goan dishes such as sorpotel, sannas and chourico bread.

Goa's love for soccer is well known and the local Goan squad proved it by winning the friendly match against the Toronto Police Blue Soccer team.

“It was a friendly tournament yet very competitive as both the teams wanted to bag the winning title,” said Selwyn Collaco.

The kids were not forgotten and special events such as treasure hunt, three-legged race, newspaper race, water balloon fight and more were organised for them.

The festival concluded with some foot tapping music belted out by DJ John Sylvan.

Reporting by: Debarati Mukherjee

Images: At the Viva Goa Festival/GOA and Indian Consulate Toronto Facebook