Resident of Goa or visiting this state, GoGoaNow is your one stop to the sights, sounds and taste of Goa. Here you can plan your weekend or your holiday with things to do, see, visit, eat and drink.
From exhibitions, concerts, dance, food and drink to performing arts, libraries and more, GoGoaNow is the definitive guide to events in Goa.
Featured Events
The Indo-Portuguese Friendship Society (IPFS), Goa, in collaboration with the Fundação Cidade de Lisboa, has announced its upcoming Portuguese language courses from July 1 to November 30 to be conducted in both Panaji and Margao branches. Limited seats. Details: 9552596875.
Fundacao Oriente in India, in association with the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Goa, will hold the fourth edition of the ‘Stars of the Future’ (SOF) Quiz Competition for high school and higher secondary students in Goa from October 28 to 31. Schools can register for the contest by emailing fosof2026@gmail.com. Each school can enter up to four teams, with a maximum of four students in each team.
Up Next
The Indo-Portuguese Friendship Society (IPFS), Goa, in collaboration with the Fundação Cidade de Lisboa, has announced its upcoming Portuguese language courses from July 1 to November 30 to be conducted in both Panaji and Margao branches. Limited seats. Details: 9552596875.
Fundacao Oriente in India, in association with the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Goa, will hold the fourth edition of the ‘Stars of the Future’ (SOF) Quiz Competition for high school and higher secondary students in Goa from October 28 to 31. Schools can register for the contest by emailing fosof2026@gmail.com. Each school can enter up to four teams, with a maximum of four students in each team.
Essentially Goa
The Goan Fish Tales
Fish is considered as the staple diet of the Goan people. All humans use readily available edible resources and slowly develop a culture around it and the knowledge is passed from generation to generation. Fish became an integral part of Goan diet from prehistoric times (50000-60000 years before present). Goa has an unenviable culture showcasing different ways communities look at, understand, worship, love/hate, catch, cook and serve fish. Goa being rich in freshwater and marine ecosystems offers free, highly diverse (about 250 species of fish and shellfish) fisheries resources so the culture of catching fish developed much before animal husbandry or agriculture. Due to early semi-nomadic settlers who camped first in Mandovi and Zuari river basins about 50-60000 years ago and developed the practice of catching fish using different gears. [siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget] Fish was a staple diet in ancient Goa even before the caste system was developed so almost all ethnic Goan communities are found to utilize fish in their food but there are clear taboos about meat. After the advent of GSB (Goa Saraswat Brahmins) migrants the legend of Sage Saraswat saving the Vedas by consuming fish from Vedic river Saraswati became popular and the Brahmins too justified consumption […]
When a fashion designer is in lockdown…
Life changed a lot as a lockdown was imposed on Goa. Some people loved the free time while others got jittery. Philu Martins, a fashion designer from Goa, speaks to NT GoGoaNow about her life during lockdown. Sheryl Gonsalves | NT GoGoaNow Picture Credit – Shivang Mishra I NT GOGOANOW There is quite a difference between Philu’s daily routine before the lockdown and now. The bubbly fashion designer keeps herself busy with reading, housework, and exercises. “It’s a much healthier lifestyle. I’m eating more nutritious food and I love playing with my lovely dogs.” Philu doesn’t think she’s a good cook but that hasn’t stopped her from trying out Goan recipes. “I really miss going out but this is a much required break which allows me to spend time with my family, and we are praying together and eating together. I’m blessed to have this housewife experience and I’m enjoying but I wouldn’t want it to last forever,” she reveals. Philu also misses her clients, staff, working with weavers, and the practical part of being a fashion designer as her workshop is closed but she grateful for the holiday. For Easter Sunday she was supposed to have a fashion show […]
‘Rediscover Goa’ with Airbnb and experience the true beauty of the sunshine state
*A week long celebration of all things Goan announced in collaboration with Goa Tourism Department* Airbnb in collaboration with the Goa Tourism Department, launches ‘Rediscover Goa’, a week-long celebration of Goa’s vast cultural diversity beyond its beaches and dazzling nightlife. Cultre, a creative and cultural enterprise that seeks to promote India’s pluralistic cultural heritage through content, products and experiences has been onboarded as the knowledge partner to help curate the experiences and bring to life all things Goan. … The ‘Rediscover Goa’ celebration will take place from December 12-18, and will offer 20+ specially curated unique Airbnb Experiences hosted by local experts highlighting the eclectic culture, rich heritage, musical traditions, culinary delicacies and thriving landscapes of Goa across the Northern and Southern districts of the state. … This week-long celebration of Goa and its culture aims to highlight how the state’s inherited traditions and cultural legacy form the basis of Goan living even in this day and age. The experiences will not only let one indulge in the many bounties of Goa but also help engage with the vibrant local culture. The existing pockets of lesser-known curiosities that make Goa unique will now be accessible for all enthusiasts to experience. […]
Beaches in Goa with less crowd
The shining sun is hitting the waves, making the ocean sparkle as it reflects the blue hues of the sky above. The gentle breeze and the calming sounds of the water make you slip into relaxation mode. However, there is one thing you may wish was different…. a beach that wasn’t so crowded! Written By: Sheryl Gonsalves Not to worry! Here is a list of beaches in Goa that’ll let you have a quieter, peaceful outing: NORTH GOA The North side of Goa has a notorious reputation for having crowded, noisy beaches. However, this isn’t entirely true. Here are some serene spots to visit for sand and sea… Morjim Beach This beach is quite famous for the Olive Ridley turtles who come to nest here and are helped by a group of volunteers who guard the nests and help the baby turtles get into the sea. The beach is also a favourite among Russian tourists, along with Ashwem beach close by, one will find signboards and menu cards in the Russian language. Mandrem Beach If you want to enjoy vast stretches of sand and water, this beach is the place to be! Colourful seashells dot the shores while little crabs […]
The marigold man of Goa
With a deep understanding of agriculture and a desire to bring locally grown marigold flowers to the Goan community, Amona-based farmer Krishna Sinari has embarked on the high-tech venture of marigold farming. RAMANDEEP KAUR | NT Inspired by the need for locally grown marigold flowers, Krishna Sinari, the owner of Prakriti Farm Products, has started a high-tech venture of marigold farming in a 3,000-square-meter plot. With a total of 5,000 plants, his farm boasts vibrant yellow and orange marigold flowers. The inspiration behind choosing marigold flowers as the primary crop stems, he says, is that even though Goa has a suitable environment for its growth, a majority of the flowers are brought in from other places. “Marigolds are essential for Diwali celebrations. So I chose to start my own marigold production to meet the local demand,” says Sinari, who holds a diploma in agriculture and has done various courses to enhance his knowledge in the field. Currently enjoying his first marigold harvest, the next crop of flowers will be during Diwali and later for Tulsi Vivah. After that, he will move on to the next crop. Sinari has previously cultivated hybrid chillies and lady fingers and plans to explore other […]
Tour Goa in a helicopter!
Who knew flying high had so many benefits? Hawk Soaring Aerospace Pvt Ltd has started premium helicopter services in Goa for the first time. Here are the services they offer: Executive Charters Relish the flexibility of your schedule and achieve more on your business trips through exclusive day-trip charters! Interstate Transfers Reduce distances and do more on your workday or holiday as you smoothly travel across interstate borders! Airport Transfers Reduce travel time and avoid traffic jams as you fly from Mopa and Dabolim airports to your resort in air-conditioned comfort! Customised Heli Tours Delight in fascinating vistas and a Hawk’s eye view of Goa and explore places such as Hampi, Kolhapur and Shirdi like never before! Joy Ride (Per Person) *8000/-only Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide through the sky in an exhilarating 10-minute joyride across the State in the classic Agusta 119! (Time Slot: 11 am -12 pm, 3 pm – 4 pm.)
Backpacking Guide: Panjim
Lush green trees and the pristine Mandovi River flowing are notably one of the few things one will see cruising through the beautiful City of Panjim. Panjim being the capital city of Goa calls many visitors. Cruising through Panjim will definitely take a travel thirsty wanderer back in time to the Portuguese era. Fontainhas Fontainhas is famously known to be the Latin quarters of Goa has proven to be a very photo-worthy location for many. The feature of this place is Portugal infused architecture. Walking through the lanes of Fontainhas you’ll notice walls painted in hues of blue, yellow and strip white and that’s only the tip of the beautiful architecture. Walking through the lanes it’s definite to find many cafes and art galleries. Dive deeper into the architecture as you walk into the art galleries. Our Lady of Immaculate Conception One of the most famously known Churches in Goa is the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church. The church stands tall in the center of Panjim and receives hundreds of visitors on a daily basis. The church’s white color instantly grabs the eye. Another feature of this church is its zigzag stairs that lead to the church. The church […]
A simpler life is better ~ Literati Bookshop Founder
“We’re lucky to have a roof over our heads and our basic needs met,” says Divya Kapur, the founder of the Literati Bookshop in Calangute, while talking to NT GoGoaNow. Sheryl Gonsalves | NT GoGoaNow This ex-lawyer started focusing on what she could do at home during the lockdown. She checked in on her friends and family to see if they were okay. Divya jokingly shared that she’s not that productive but she spent her time reading, watching television, and engaged in some physical activities. Speaking about the Literati Bookshop she reveals that they’re encouraging people to opt for home delivery. Now they hold virtual book club meets but movie screenings and book launches can’t happen. Divya is of the opinion that a simpler life is better. She says, “I’m looking forward to going to the beach, swimming in the sea, and watching the sunset.” [siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget] [siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
Goa-based musician ‘Discokid’ to perform at Serendipity Arts Festival 2023
Among the eight exceptional music artists handpicked for the B-side Music Production Residency programme, ‘Discokid’, a Goa-based musician will be performing at the Serendipity Arts Festival 2023. The 11-day workshop concluded in Olaulim recently and was organised by the Serendipity Arts Foundation. The eight artists namely Dzerouengmit Lepcha, Fatima Hakeen (Discokid), Lenix Lobo, Hasan Shahrukh, Govi, Ashel Unger, Rushaki Ghosh and Medhaj Dempo, delved deep into the intricacies of music production using Ableton Live, a digital audio workstation during the residency, which formally culminated on October 20. The residency was mentored by industry experts, including Jay Pei, Megha Balani, SHFT and Puneesh Suri. Fatima Hakeen aka ‘Discokid’ is a musician and producer based out of Goa and has been featured in well-known online music shows like Mixmag Goa and Worldwide FM. Over the eleven-day intensive program, the participants explored a myriad of techniques, from working with audio clips and MIDI basics to advanced production methods, honing their skills and collectively broadening their creative horizons. “Each participant brings a unique flavour to the table: from Dzerouengmit Lepcha’s soulful melodies to Discokid’s groovy beats, Lenix Lobo’s experimental sounds and Govi’s fusion of Carnatic vocals with indie and alternative genres. Hasan Shahrukh, with his expertise in […]
A sneak-peek into life in Goa decades ago
Have you ever wondered how Goa was in the past? A simple 82-year-old Goan lady shares details about her life with us. Sheryl Gonsalves | NT GoGoaNow What was Goa like during your youth? There was unity in the family. My mother used to go out of the way by making less for the family and giving the neighbour. My food diet was usually rice and curry. Chicken and other meat was a luxury which was eaten for festivals. Beef was rarely consumed but pork was the most common thing. There were no fridges so we made dishes that could last for some time. I also usually had pulses, beans, pumpkin, gourd, and long string beans. A lot of superstitions were believed in those days. We were told to not go out at night because evil spirits are roaming. On ‘All souls day’ people believed that the souls will come and drink water. They would keep food on top of the roof for the souls. Another superstition was that after midnight a headless evil man/ spirit will roam with a stick. So if people heard any sound like a stick beating something, they would put the lights off and hide […]
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