Team Goemkarponn
VAGATOR: A proposed open-air music event in Anjuna on Good Friday triggered strong opposition from residents and was eventually called off after villagers gathered near the venue in protest, objecting to the programme being held on a religiously significant day.
The event, promoted as a sunset-to-night music programme, had tickets on sale while infrastructure was being set up on comunidade land under Survey No. 206/1. The scale of the event and its timing drew criticism from locals, who said celebrations on Good Friday were inappropriate and insensitive to religious sentiments.
The Comunidade of Anjuna had initially issued a no-objection certificate to the organiser in early March. However, following objections from villagers, the NOC was revoked on April 1 citing local concerns. Despite the withdrawal, preparations including stage setup and sound checks reportedly continued, fuelling resentment among residents.
Officials also clarified that the organisers had not secured formal permission for the event. Continued activity at the venue created confusion and prompted locals to question how arrangements were allowed to proceed without approvals.
The situation escalated on Good Friday evening when villagers began assembling near the venue for a candlelight protest. Residents raised concerns about disturbance during church services, potential noise pollution, and safety issues, particularly the risk of traffic congestion blocking access for emergency vehicles. Police were deployed in the area as crowds gathered and traffic congestion was reported.
The programme, scheduled on comunidade land, was halted around 8.30 pm after organisers were informed that permission had been revoked. While locals welcomed the cancellation, some tourists expressed disappointment, stating that last-minute changes or cancellations caused inconvenience. Following the call-off, several revellers were seen moving towards other locations in the Vagator belt.
The cancellation brought relief to residents and eased tensions in the area after hours of mounting opposition.
