Team Goemkarponn
Panjim: Students of Don Bosco College, Panjim, took part in the vibrant celebrations of Malar Bonderam, Goa’s oldest flag festival, during a field trip organised by the Department of English on August 16, 2025. The initiative aimed to deepen the understanding of performance studies and regional folklore among FY BA English students.
The festival began with Bonderam GED Talks, a lecture series highlighting Goa’s cultural heritage. Dr. Aaron Lobo, marine conservation scientist, spoke on “Building Resilience: Ensuring Goa’s promise for fish, curry and rice lives on.” Dr. Glenis Mendonca, Associate Professor at Carmel College, Nuvem, shared insights into Goan folk dances and songs, while Dr. Gourish Karanjalker underscored the significance of backyard gardening.
Following the talks, participants relished Bonderachem Jevonn, a traditional Goan feast, before joining the festivities that featured the flag parade and Bonderachi Pasoi, a spirited heritage walk beginning at St. Matias Church and tracing the peripheries of Malar.
The celebrations concluded with a lively float parade showcasing the island’s traditional occupations and community life. The students were accompanied by Assistant Professors Jude Fernandes and Marina Martins.
