Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has announced a statewide Aakash Kandil (lantern-making) competition as part of the celebrations for the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025. The initiative aims to highlight Goa’s vibrant cultural traditions while encouraging creativity and community participation through artistic lantern designs.
The competition is open to all residents of Goa, with a maximum of 600 entries accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis, limited to 50 entries per taluka. Each participant will receive a ₹500 honorarium as a token of appreciation. The last date to register is November 18, 2025, by 5 pm. For registration and details, interested participants may contact Neelai Naik at 7350019149.
Participants must submit their completed Aakash Kandils on November 20 between 10 am and 12:30 pm at the ESG office. The society will provide holders, bulbs, and electrical connections for the display. Participants are encouraged to use eco-friendly materials, with thermocol strictly prohibited, to promote sustainability.
A panel of judges will select three winners from each taluka, who will receive prizes of ₹5,000 for first place, ₹3,000 for second, and ₹2,000 for third. The judges’ decision will be final.
The Aakash Kandil competition is expected to add a festive sparkle to IFFI 2025, bringing together creativity, culture, and community spirit. ESG officials emphasized that the event not only celebrates Goa’s artistic heritage but also provides a platform for local talent to shine on an international stage.
Residents across Goa are invited to participate and light up the festival with their imaginative lantern creations, making IFFI 2025 a glowing tribute to Goan artistry and innovation.
