Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: The Vasco Carnival Committee unveiled the schedule and programme lineup for the upcoming Vasco Carnival floats, making it clear that any float carrying vulgar or religiously offensive content will not be allowed to participate in the celebrations.
The main Carnival floats parade will be held in Vasco on February 16, but festivities will commence two days earlier, starting February 14, said committee chairman Agnelo Nunes while addressing the media.
“The Carnival programmes will begin on February 14 with the flagging off of the Carnival Mobile Van on Saturday evening,” Nunes said. He added that the opening day will feature a fancy dress competition, a folk dance performance by Creation, a dance competition, and a musical performance by Goan artist DJ Skeletron along with dance group Infinix.
Nunes further informed that traditional Khell Tiatr performances will be staged at several locations, including Bhutebhat, Vaddem Lake, Kharewado, Matvem, Chicalim, New Vaddem, Mangor and Baina, ensuring that Carnival celebrations reach different parts of Vasco and surrounding areas.
“On Sunday, February 15, we will host a grand Konkani musical show by Lawry Travasso and Ester Noronha, along with other talented artists,” Nunes said. He added that the main Carnival floats parade on Monday, February 16, will begin at 3.30 pm, followed by a live performance by Goan artist DJ Mazel Fealiero at 7 pm.
According to Nunes, the celebrations will conclude on Tuesday, February 17, with a performance by Goan artist Tsumyoki at 7 pm, prize distribution at 8 pm, and a live band performance by Neon at 9 pm.
Meanwhile, committee member August D’Costa stressed that strict guidelines will be enforced for the float parade. “Any floats depicting vulgarity or making fun of any religion will not be permitted. Carnival is a festival enjoyed by people of all religions, and Vasco, being a cosmopolitan city, reflects that spirit,” D’Costa said.
He also clarified that cycles will not be allowed to participate in the floats and that a screening committee, including police personnel, will vet all entries. D’Costa appealed to parents to closely supervise children during the main parade and urged commuters and taxi operators to use alternative routes due to expected roadblocks during the float procession.
Parties wishing to participate in the floats must fill out the prescribed forms, submit photographs and identity proof, and obtain clearance from the screening committee nominated by the Tourism department. The forms are available at the Vasco Municipality office, and a special pandal will be set up near St Andrew’s Church on February 16 to accept entries.
