Team Goemkarponn
Margao:
Bailancho Saad convenor Auda Viegas has sharply criticised a Christmas-themed event being promoted in Goa, accusing its organisers of exploiting religious sentiments and portraying the state as a sex tourism destination.
Viegas said the promoters were misusing the right to practise religion by pushing what she described as Osho-style celebrations under the guise of a Christmas festival. Christmas, she said, is a solemn and family-centred occasion, and linking it with themes of tantra and sexuality undermines its religious meaning. She also objected to the involvement of a person presenting himself as Swami Dhyan Sumit, calling it a cultural affront to Goan Catholics.
She pointed to invitations circulating for singles and couples to stay together and take part in activities described as “Tales of Kamasutra and Christmas celebration,” calling it an attack on the community’s values. She questioned whether the organisers planned to provide partners or massage services to participants and asked whether such practices had ever been part of Goan culture.
Viegas accused the government of enabling efforts that could weaken Catholic traditions in the state and urged the police to intervene immediately. She said the event promotes sex trafficking and presents a distorted picture of a religious festival while deepening social divides.
Bailancho Saad has called for firm action against the organisers, saying the event must be stopped before it takes root.
