GOA HERITAGE FESTIVAL 2026 SHOWCASES STATE’S CULTURAL TAPESTRY

Saligao: The Goa Heritage Festival 2026 opened to grandeur on Friday, with Hon’ble Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte leading a host of dignitaries at the state-level celebration of Goa’s living traditions.

Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Kedar J. Naik, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, and GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar were among the key officials who graced the event, adding official heft to the cultural showcase.

The festival, aimed at promoting Goa’s tangible and intangible heritage, featured traditional music, folk performances, craft displays, and culinary stalls highlighting Goan legacy cuisine. The presence of senior tourism officials underscored the government’s focus on positioning heritage as a key pillar of Goa’s tourism narrative beyond beaches.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Khaunte reiterated the state’s commitment to preserving cultural assets while integrating them into sustainable tourism circuits for the 2026 season. The event drew large crowds of locals and tourists, with organizers terming the opening day a “grand success” owing to the distinguished participation and vibrant programming.