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ALL ABOUT GOA

Are listed below Archaeological Museum and Portrait Gallery Archives Museum of Goa Museum of Christian Art, Rachol Renaissance Art Gallery

HANDICRAFTS IN GOA:

Pottery & Terracotta: Bicholim village in Goa is well known for its pottery. Articles used in everydayliving are artistically molded here. Bamboo Craft: Is another important craft of Goa. Decorative articles as well as every day objects are made from bamboo. Coir Products: As coconuts are found in abundance, coir products are widely used by the locals. Entire families in certain villages engage themselves in producing articles made out of coir. Jewelry: The famous 'marquisette', 'green malachite', 'sand stone' and the delicate filigree work used in shaping gold as well as silver jewelry is well appreciated world wide. Seashell craft: The artisans produce ashtrays, lampshades, coasters, frames etc. from seashells. Jute Macramé craft: Decorative articles like bags, potholders, wall hangings, etc. are made from jute.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS:

As the population comprises of Christians, Hindus and a few Muslims as well, Goa is in festive mood almost throughout the year. Zatra: Auspicious days according to the Hindu calendar are celebrated and known as 'Zatra'. Certain rituals are performed and a fair like atmosphere draws crowds from in and around the temple area. Diwali: Marks the beginning of winter according to the Hindu calendar. It is commonly known as the festival of lights and the goddess of wealth called 'Laxmi' is worshipped. Ganesh Chaturthi: The idol of 'Lord Ganesh' is worshipped in most Hindu homes in Goa for a period ranging from 1 to 11 days after which it is immersed in water with much fun and celebrations. Christmas: A much loved festival worldwide is also celebrated in Goa by the Christian population on December 25th. A traditional midnight mass to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and the long awaited 'Santa Claus' brings joy to the young and the old alike.

CARNIVAL:

Non stop fun for 3 days with color, food, drinks, music, song and dance is how 'Carnival' celebrated. Each state takes pride in creating artistic floats based on either social or cultural themes. Large crowds gather around the city area either to participate in competitions or simply enjoy watching. This 3 festival of 'Carnival' is then followed by the season of 'Lent', which means fasting and abstinence

SPORTS:

The most popular sports in Goa is Football: This sport arrived in Goa in 1883 and the professional football association was formed in 1949. Since then, Goa has produced football players of international repute. To know the latest events in local football, one can contact The Goan Football Association at Panaji, Goa.

WATER SPORTS:

Being surrounded by beaches from the northern to the southern tip of Goa, water sports lovers canhave a wonderful time. A number of government and private organizations like hotels and tour operators conduct water sport activities including training courses at very nominal charges. Para sailing, surfing, water-skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, water scooter rides are some of the water sports available in Goa.