Goan Culture & Events

The culture of Goa is a unique synthesis of indigenous elements and extraneous influence. Throughout its chequered history, Goa has nurtured and preserved local art and culture despite being repeatedly conquered by invading forces. The long rule of the Portuguese has influenced the Goan culture in more ways than one and in many aspects of the culture of Goa one witnesses a seamless blend of ethnic and Portuguese traditions.

Dance and music are an integral part of the Goa culture and the jovial, warm people of Goa express themselves with colorful performances. Goa is the treasure trove of exquisite art and crafts and tourists visiting the state take artifacts as souvenirs. Communal harmony is an amazing facet of the culture of Goa with the people carving a unique Goan identity irrespective of their religious persuations.

	The People of Goa
	According to the 2001 census, Goa has a literacy rate of 82% with 89% of males and 76% of females being literate. Each taluka is made up of villages, each having a school run by the government.Many of the states residents prefer to enroll in privately run schools which offer better facilities.

	Catholic Festivals
	Goa has a unique blend of socio-religious culture. Being a predominantly Roman Catholic society, there are more Christian festivals in Goa.

	Hindu Festivals
	With the majority of the population being Hindu, Goa has scores of festivals celebrated all around the year. The festivals are celebrated through out the year.

	Muslim Festivals
	Goa does not quite have a sizeable Muslim population and it ranks after Hindus and Christians. Though there are not many Muslim festivals in Goa, the main ones are celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm.

	Common Festivals in Goa
	Since 1952, India has hosted 34 International Film Festivals, both competitive and non-competitive.

	Fashion and Trends
	Goa seems to be in a deadly hurry to dish out so many things and not the least among them is fashions, for the hep and moneyed, before the 20th century sees its end soon.

	Artist and Musicians
	Music occupies the pride of place in the cultural milieu of Goa. Goans are born musicians and music runs deep in their veins. Apart from being a vast repository of folk music forms, Goa is also the cradle of a number of Western music forms.

	Handicrafts of Goa
	Handicrafts of Goa usually include objects made using natural material like coconut husk or palm leaves. Goan craftsmen enjoy coloring wooden articles in vibrant colours like red, green, yellow and white. These multihued wooden items are called chitaris.