Team Goemkarponn
Ponda: The vibrant celebrations of Shigmotsav 2026 commenced in Ponda on Thursday, marking the beginning of a grand cultural festival that will unfold across 19 centres in Goa over the next 14 days.
The Shigmotsav parade, organised by the Ponda Taluka Antruz Shigmotsav Samiti in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, began from Tisk-Ponda and drew a large turnout of locals and visitors.
The parade featured traditional Romtamel performances, folk dances, colourful fancy dress presentations and creatively designed floats depicting Goa’s rich traditions and mythological themes. The streets came alive with music, colour and enthusiastic participation by artists and cultural troupes from across the state.
The inaugural celebration was attended by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Naik, Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte, Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, BJP Goa president Damu Naik, NRI Commissioner Narendra Sawaikar, former Rajya Sabha MP Vinay Tendulkar and Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, among other dignitaries.
The parade began with a Romtamel performance by Zareshwar Shigmotsav Mandal, presented by a group of specially abled participants, setting an inspiring tone for the celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Shigmo remains one of Goa’s most cherished cultural festivals and provides an important platform for local artists and traditional performers. Remembering former Agriculture Minister and Ponda MLA late Ravi Naik, he noted that the festival, which began in Ponda’s Antruz Mahal, has today grown into a large-scale statewide celebration. He added that the festival reflects the unity of Goans and emphasised the importance of preserving Goa’s culture while working towards a clean and beautiful state.
Union Minister Shripad Naik congratulated the participating groups for their dedication in preserving the traditions of Shigmo, stating that their efforts help keep Goa’s cultural heritage alive.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said Shigmotsav reflects the essence of Goa’s traditions, art forms and storytelling legacy. He highlighted initiatives such as the “Goa Beyond Beaches” campaign and the “Ekadasha Teertha” initiative aimed at promoting cultural and spiritual tourism in the state. He also announced that the infrastructure grant provided to Shigmotsav committees has been increased by ₹1 lakh this year.
The Shigmotsav parades will continue across Goa over the coming days. After Ponda on March 5, the celebrations will move to Calangute on March 6 and Panaji on March 7. The festivities will then take place in Mapusa on March 8, Curchorem on March 9, Bicholim on March 10 and Sanquelim on March 11. Parades will be held in Shiroda and Sanguem on March 12, Dharbandora and Cuncolim on March 13, Margao on March 14, Vasco and Porvorim on March 15, Valpoi on March 16, Pernem and Quepem on March 17, and will conclude in Mandrem and Canacona on March 18.
The Department of Tourism has invited citizens and visitors to witness the colourful festivities and experience one of Goa’s most significant cultural celebrations.
