One
of the major attractions in Goa is the Carnival. In fact, it is popularly
known as the Goa Carnival. Goa comes alive in all its beauty and splendor
during the carnival, as it is one of the most important celebrations in Goa.
The Goa Carnival has been celebrated since the 18th century. The Carnival is
meant to be a time for feasting, drinking and merry making. The Goa Carnival
takes place just before the 40 days of Lent, a time of asceticism and
holiness. Throughout the city, huge parades are organized with bands,
floats, balls and dances in the evenings. The festival continues for 3 days
and is celebrated throughout Goa. People of all religions take part in the
festivities and enjoy thoroughly.The genesis of the Goa Carnival finds its way to the pleasure-seeking feasts of ancient Rome and Greece. It made its emergence in the Spanish and Portuguese colonies, where it gradually untouched into a very Latin style of singing, drinking and dancing stints. King Momo, who on the opening day orders his subjects to party, supervises the carnival. The festival draws thousands of tourists from all over the world for the 3 - day indulgence.
The Carnival is exclusively Goan and is not celebrated anywhere else in the country. The Goans initiate the Carnival with the display of colorful floats. Troupes of masked revelers who take immense pleasure in attiring themselves in stunning costumes, sing and dance in delight to dynamic music that is usually performed live by famous singers and artists. In order to encourage some liveliness to the Carnival and give the Goans some credit, the best floats are given generous prizes.