Staff Reporter
Panaji
The Department of Art & Culture made its debut at the prestigious BTL Lisbon 2025 (Bolsa de Turismo de Lisboa), presenting Goa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage on an international stage.
The Goa Pavilion featured Goan art, literature, pottery, feni, and traditional delicacies such as bebinca and cashew nuts. Live pottery demonstrations by artists Umakant Poke and Santosh Govekar attracted art enthusiasts. “Goa’s culture and heritage are appreciated globally, and we are proud to showcase our vibrant art forms, music, food, and handicrafts,” said Minister for Art & Culture Govind Gaude, who inaugurated the Goa Pavilion.
Musicians Carlos Gonsalves and Sigmund de Souza entertained visitors with soulful Goan music, complemented by performances featuring the ghumat and guitar.
“This year marks 50 years since the restoration of diplomatic ties between India and Portugal, as well as the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Fundação Oriente in Goa,” said Secretary for Art & Culture and Handicrafts, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS.
He said that for the first time, Goan artists and traditional handicraft makers travelled from Goa to Lisbon to showcase their work on a global platform. “It is a first-of-its-kind experience for PM Vishwakarma beneficiaries to present their artistic products at an international stage,” Anchipaka added.
Also present were the Ambassador of India to Portugal Puneet Roy Kundal, Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, Cortalim MLA Antonio Vaz, and the Director of Art & Culture, Sagun Velip.
