Team Goemkarponn
VELSAO: The vibrant beats of ghumots and the lively performances of artistes brought Velsao alive as the traditional folk theatre form Khell Tiatr was staged as part of the Carnival celebrations in Cortalim, drawing a strong turnout of villagers and visitors alike.
Organised by Velsao panch member Jim D’Souza, the three-day presentation of Khells and tiatrs witnessed enthusiastic participation, with senior citizens and youth gathering in large numbers to relive the charm of Goa’s age-old theatrical tradition.
Extending festive greetings, Jim D’Souza said the initiative was rooted in a family legacy. “Viva Carnival to everyone. Bringing Khell to Velsao during Carnival has been a tradition in our family. My father, Roquezinho D’Souza, ensured that villagers enjoyed these performances every year. As he has grown older, he has handed over the responsibility to me, and I am committed to continuing this legacy,” he said.
He noted that different Khells were staged on all three days of the Carnival celebrations this year, receiving an overwhelming response. “On the concluding day, we invited comedian Agnelo Rebello, which added to the festive mood. It is essential that we preserve our traditions. If we stop organising such performances, future generations may not even understand what a Khell is,” D’Souza said.
Recalling childhood memories, he added, “As children, we would wear masks and move from house to house watching tiatrs and Khells. Those scenes are rare today. These performances not only entertain but also convey strong social and moral messages.”
Local resident Eduardo Braganza expressed gratitude to the D’Souza family for consistently hosting cultural programmes during Carnival. “Our senior citizens eagerly await these plays every year. Because of this family’s efforts, we get to watch quality tiatrs and Khells in our own village,” he said.
Braganza stressed the need to sustain the tradition. “Younger generations are slowly drifting away from these art forms. If we do not support them, they could fade away in the coming years. Events like these unite the village and keep our cultural spirit alive,” he added.
He added that such events bring villagers together and give elderly residents something to look forward to during Carnival.
The programme concluded with applause from the audience, with many appreciating the effort to keep the traditional form alive in Velsao.
The performances also displayed D’Souza family commitments to preserving Goa’s rich theatrical heritage amid the colourful Carnival festivities.
