Staff Reporter
Panaji
Protecting some of Goa’s endangered species was one of the focal points of this year’s vibrant Carnival float parade held in Panaji on Saturday.
Tableaus from across Goa showcased the rich culture, heritage and traditions that define the state. Addressing the crowd, King Momo thanked and welcomed everyone in attendance.
“I want everyone to be happy in Goa. This is your time to be free and celebrate life. Feel the rhythm and energy in every corner of Goa as the floats and dances fill the streets. Carnival is the time to come together, no matter who you are. As your king, I declare this day to be filled with endless fun and unforgettable moments. I wish each one of you good health, wealth and happiness,” stated King Momo Cleeven Fernandes in his decree as he declared the Carnival parade open.
Apart from the usual floats from the Indian Navy, Traffic Police and Directorate of Health, there were those brought by local villages groups who addressed the issues that have not yet made to the mainstream.
Some of the highlights included the endangered pangolin and turtle, encroachment of their habitation, and rapid growth of urban areas leading to less greener areas for wildlife and migratory birds.
Life-sizes cartoon characters of Mario Miranda’s paintings also found a mention on floats.
Tableaus of ‘xetkars’ (farmers) and ‘fulkars’ (flower sellers) showcasing their work caught the attention of those present, while the ‘Pausachea Tempar Sobitkai’ float highlighting Goa’s beauty in the monsoon was a sight to behold.
The crowd took the liberty of moving in the parade to click pictures of dancers and participants, hindering movement of the tableaus.
