The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully hosted Goa Deepotsav 2025, a two-day celebration that illuminated Porvorim, Saligao, and Mapusa with festive cheer, music, and community spirit. The event brought together Goans from all walks of life to celebrate Diwali through art, tradition, and togetherness.
The first-ever edition of Deepotsav in Mapusa, held at the Mapusa Taxi Stand Ground, witnessed a spectacular turnout and vibrant community participation. The venue came alive with a series of engaging competitions, including the All Goa Akash Kandil Competition, cooking and fugdi contests, and a dynamic cultural showcase. The evening’s highlight, Rhythm of Lights, captivated the audience with performances that beautifully reflected Goa’s cultural diversity and artistic spirit.
The Mapusa event was attended by an array of dignitaries, including Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Deputy Speaker & MLA, Mapusa, Shri Joshua De Souza; Chairperson, Mapusa Municipal Council, Smt Priya Mishal; Deputy Director, Department of Tourism, Shri Dhiraj Vagle; Dy. General Manager (Marketing/Hotels), GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar; Asst. Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar; Councillors and Ex. Councillors of Mapusa Municipal Council and others. Their presence added significance to the closing ceremony, which celebrated Goa’s collective cultural pride and festive unity.
Addressing the gathering at Mapusa, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “The Tourism Department initiated the Goa Beyond Beaches programme in 2022 with the objective of taking tourists to the interior parts of the state and creating opportunities for local communities. Our focus has been on promoting culture and cultural tourism through events such as Shigmo, Carnaval, São João, Chikhal Kalo, and Veerbhadra. Additionally, in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, we are committed to empowering women and youth and today we organised activities such as Fugdi and cooking competitions for women and the Akash Kandil competition for youth. Going forward, the Department intends to celebrate Deepotsav in Mapusa every year on an even larger scale, reflecting Goa’s festive spirit and vibrant cultural heritage”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, stated, “The overwhelming response to Deepotsav has been encouraging. The energy, participation, and creativity displayed by the people truly embodied our vision of ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’. The event successfully brought together generations in a shared celebration of light, culture, and joy.”
Dy. General Manager, (Marketing/Hotels) Shri Deepak Narvekar proposed vote of thanks.
The festivities began on October 25 at Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal Hall, Porvorim, where workshops and competitions such as clay modelling, drawing, cooking, fugdi, and Veshbhusha Spardha (Traditional Costume Contest) engaged families and children alike. The evening concluded with Sur Taal, a soulful musical performance that delighted audiences. On October 26, the celebrations moved to the Saligao Panchayat Area, Saligao continuing the festive fervour with creative contests including rangoli making, cooking, and Veshbhusha Spardha. The evening’s cultural highlight, Suron Kee Deepawali, offered a melodious tribute to the festival of lights, drawing warm appreciation from the audience.
With Goa Deepotsav 2025, the Department of Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural tourism and community engagement across the state. The festival stood as a radiant symbol of Goa’s vibrant traditions, fostering pride, participation, and togetherness under the glow of countless diyas.
