Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: TThe Goa Forest Diversity Festival 2026 will be held from January 17 to 19 at Art Park, Campal, Panaji, offering a vibrant platform to celebrate the state’s rich forest heritage, biodiversity and deep rooted relationship between nature and local communities. The three day festival is being organised by the Goa Forest Development Corporation Ltd.
Briefing the media in Panaji, Dr. Deviya Rane said the festival is envisioned as more than a conventional event. She described it as a celebration that brings together conservation awareness, indigenous knowledge systems and cultural traditions at a time when environmental challenges are growing globally. According to her, the festival has been designed to be engaging, inclusive and accessible to people of all age groups.
Dr. Rane explained that the festival is guided by three core objectives. These include educating and sensitising citizens, particularly children and youth, about forest conservation and biodiversity, celebrating traditional wisdom and sustainable practices rooted in forest ecosystems, and fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards protecting Goa’s natural heritage.
The programme will feature a mix of educational, cultural and experiential activities spread across three days. One of the key attractions will be the Angon Experience, an immersive traditional space showcasing indigenous lifestyles through live demonstrations, storytelling and interactive sessions. Dr. Rane said this signature feature will give visitors rare insights into sustainable forest based living practices.
Visitors can also explore authentic tribal cuisine that highlights traditional forest based food practices and flavours. The Green Bazaar will display eco friendly products, forest produce and sustainable lifestyle items, encouraging environmentally conscious choices.
Cultural performances will play a central role, with folk traditions such as Morulo, Jagor acts and Fugdi forming part of the programme. A special musical performance by Sonia Shirsat is scheduled on the opening day, followed by band performances on the remaining two days. The festival will also feature the Goff Dance on Wheels by the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa, promoting inclusion through art, along with theatre performances like “Mhaka Naka Plastic” that deliver strong conservation messages.
Calling the festival a unique initiative, Dr. Rane said it brings conservation, culture, inclusion and community engagement together on one platform. She also revealed that a special surprise element will be unveiled during the inaugural ceremony.
Appealing for public participation, she urged citizens to visit Art Park from January 17 to 19 and be part of a celebration that connects nature, culture and community.
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