Location : All over Goa, but the best parades are seen in Panaji
Best Time to Visit : February
Significance : Precedes the fasting season of Lent
Highlights : Colorful parades led by King Momo, dance troupes of
masked revelers, elaborately decorated floats |
When the big day comes calling, a riot of colors and merriment engulfs the
state with elaborate processions winding through the streets. At the outset
'the king of chaos' or 'King Momo' is chosen and he leads the parade
featuring dance troupes and beautiful floats.
The Goa carnival parade is an awesome spectacle encompassing a mind-boggling
array of activities. Masked revelers dancing to live band music and ornately
decorated floats are the highlights of this fascinating jamboree. The
carnival culminates with the famous Red-and-Black dance held by the Clube
Nacional in Panaji.
Over the years, the Goa carnival has come to embody the
very best of the unique Goan culture. On the eve of the carnival tourists
from all over the world descend on Goa for a sip of the rich heritage of Goa.
The origins and nature of the carnival can be traced to the wild feasts of
ancient Rome and Greece. Here, it is important to note that these carnivals
started in the Spanish and Portuguese colonies and gradually became known
for their revelry.
The word Carnival (Carnaval in Portuguese) is derived
from a Latin word, which means 'to take away meat' and is an expression of
the 40-day period of fasting of Lent.
In India the carnival is celebrated only in Goa and not in any other part.
It was on the decline even in Goa in the last few years of the Portuguese
rule. With the liberation of Goa, the carnival also got revival and boosted
the tourism of the state.
Festivals In Goa
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