A historic first ever Inclusive Childrens’ Carnaval will be held at St. John the Baptist Church courtyard, Pilerne on Thursday 16th February, 2023, at 5pm.
This year, the Fernandes’ from Pilerne have been chosen as the Royal family who symbolically will be ruling the state for five days and leading the Children’s carnaval with the King, Queen, princes, princesses and the royal entourage. This first ever childrens carnaval will be curated by Festakar Marius Fernandes and Dr. Gwendolyn De Ornelas and organised by Pilerne Arts Socio Cultural Association. It will be held at the Pilerne Thursday heritage market.
“The aim is to encourage the children, parents, guardians to promote the state’s culture and tradition in the carnaval and to minimise commercialism. This carnaval will showcase that festivals in Goa can be promoted without sponsors, alcohol, floats, etc. Since the 18th century, Carnaval is celebrated in Goa in many forms and is meant for enjoyment, merry making just before the forty days of lent which is a time of abstinence and spiritual preparation for Easter”, says Festakar Marius Fernandes. Fr. Derrick Fernandes, Parish Priest of St. John the Baptist Church, Pilerne said that I’m very happy and proud to be part of Goa’s first ever children’s carnaval, they are the future of our state and country and we are investing in them. We held a three day mask making and dance workshop with the support of volunteers from our village. Co curator Dr. Ornelas adds that being part of this children’s carnaval has showcased womens’ role in Goa, they have been behind the scenes preparing costumes, headgears and masks. We appeal to every parent to bring along their children dressed in colourful clothing and bring along musical instruments”. Marius Fernandes. 9049081961