Deusa Sector Clinches First Place at Chicalim Parish Inter-Sector Dance Festival in Goa

Chicalim, Goa, May 14, 2025 — The Deusa Sector of Chicalim parish claimed the top prize at the Inter-Sector Dance Festival held at the Village Panchayat Hall, Chicalim, on Sunday, May 11, 2025. Organised by the Chicalim Youth Farmers Club (CYFC) in association with St Francis de Assisi Somudai, Igreja, and supported by the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Goa, the festival was part of the Quadricentenary celebrations of the Chicalim parish.

With over 200 participants from Chicalim and Dabolim villages, the dance festival celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Regina Mundi Sector secured second place, while Assoi Sector was awarded third. A highlight of the evening was the traditional Fugdi Dance performed by the Mahila Mandal Group from Alto Dabolim, which received warm applause from the audience.

Adding to the festive spirit, children and participants of a three-day dance workshop conducted by Encore Dance Academy performed in a special segment. The event culminated in a show-stopping act by the world-renowned Kepemchim Kirnnam, where Elvis Goes captivated the audience with traditional Goan dances including Dekhni, Mando, Kharvi, and Marcha Fontainhas, accompanied by Bachata dancers and original Konkani music.

South Goa MP Capt. Viriato Fernandes, present among the dignitaries, praised the participants and organisers for preserving Goa’s traditional art forms. Chief Guest Ms. Cecille Rodrigues commended the talent displayed and, along with Parish Priest Fr. Bolmax Pereira and Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Peter Fernandes, distributed prizes and mementos to the winners.

The CYFC also acknowledged contributors to the revival of agriculture in Chicalim village during a brief award ceremony.

Esteemed dance professionals Priyanka Manikatti (The Immates Dance Crew), Raj Mulla (Freestylez Dance Crew), and Anup Arolkar (Encore Dance Academy) served as judges for the evening. The event was smoothly compered by Ms Valerie Afonso and Mr Francisco Nunes.

By Fr. Bolmax Pereira