Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has invited entries for the third edition of its Aakash Kandil (lantern-making) competition as part of the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2026.
The competition aims to celebrate Goa’s rich cultural heritage while encouraging creativity, traditional craftsmanship and community participation through innovative lantern designs. This year’s theme is based on the IFFI mascot, the Peacock.
The competition is open to all residents of Goa. Participants must prepare their lanterns using eco-friendly materials, with thermocol strictly prohibited. A maximum of 600 entries will be accepted, with each taluka having a limit of 50 participants. Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each registered participant will receive ₹500 as a token of appreciation for their creativity and effort. The last date for registration is November 17, 2026, until 5 pm.
Completed Aakash Kandils must be submitted at the ESG office on November 25 between 9.30 am and 12.30 pm. ESG will provide holders, bulbs and electricity connections to facilitate the display of the lanterns.
Three winners will be selected from each taluka. The first prize carries a cash reward of ₹10,000, while the second and third prize winners will receive ₹8,000 and ₹5,000 respectively. The prize distribution ceremony will be held on November 27, 2026.
The decision of the judging panel will be final and binding.
For registration and further details, interested participants can contact Neelai Naik at 7350019149.
