Goa’s Folk Traditions Take Centre Stage as Art & Culture Dept Marks World Day for Cultural Diversity
PANAJI, May 22, 2026 — The Department of Art and Culture celebrated the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development at the Multipurpose Hall, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, on Wednesday, with a vibrant showcase of Goa’s traditional folk forms.The highlight of the evening was performances of ‘Gudulya Kani’ from Canacona and ‘Dovali Maand’ from Sattari — two rare folk traditions that reflect Goa’s diverse cultural heritage. ‘Gudulya Kani’, performed by women of the Kunbi community, narrates folk tales through song and dance while balancing earthen pots. ‘Dovali Maand’ is a ritualistic folk dance of Sattari, traditionally performed in temple courtyards during festive occasions to invoke blessings for community welfare.
Addressing the gathering, Director of Art and Culture said such platforms are vital to document, preserve, and pass on intangible heritage to younger generations. “World Cultural Day reminds us that our strength lies in our diversity.
By promoting folk art, we ensure these traditions do not fade into obscurity,” the official added.Artists from Canacona and Sattari were felicitated for their efforts in keeping these art forms alive. The programme drew cultural enthusiasts, students, and locals who engaged with the performers after the showcase.
The Department announced that documentation of lesser-known folk forms will be scaled up this year, with workshops and field recordings planned across talukas. The event concluded with an interactive session on the role of community participation in safeguarding Goa’s living traditions.Observed globally on May 21, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development was proclaimed by UNESCO to deepen understanding of cultural pluralism and heritage.
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