On the occasion of Republic Day, Mariano and Perpetua Ferrao hosted the Ekvottachem Fest in Corlim, dedicated to unity and inclusivity.
The festival attracted a diverse crowd from Corlim and surrounding areas, including Panaji, Mapusa, Divar, Loutolim, and Nuvem. Other attendees included Dean Suresh Kunkalikar, Dominic D’Souza, Reshma Namajwale, Anuradha Tipu Vargaonkar, and Genevieve Fernandes
Miguel Braganza, Kunkalikar, professor Carmelito Andrade, and senior journalist Prakash Kamat shared their insights at the Balçaoacheo Gozalli. Activities like cashew roasting, salt fish drying, cow milking, and weaving rattan chairs (roteassão) provided a nostalgic glimpse into Goa’s traditional lifestyle.
A dance with coconut shells, conceptualised by Gwendolyn de Ornelas, and live performances by artists such as Rozita Heredia (Divar), Reshma Namajwale (Corlim), Anuradha Tipu (Bhoma), Mariano Ferrao, and Ana Gracias celebrated Goa’s musical heritage with classic Konkani songs.
Culinary and artisanal displays, including Goan bread, vegetables, fruits, and traditional percussion instruments, adorned the venue. There were also workshops on preparing Goan delicacies like seviyan, ragi/millet ladoo, and pinaca.
Festacarachi Pasoi, a heritage walk by Kunkalikar, explored Corlim’s indigenous trees, medicinal plants, and historical landmarks.
Festival director Marius Fernandes received a commemorative 2025 Festaçar Calendar from professor Andrade.
