‘This is not the Brazilian carnival’ says the Managing Director of GTDC (Goa Tourism Development Corporation) he was responding the rumors of strict dress code implementation which was misinterpreted by some of the people according to him.
These are just the rumors that the strict dress code will be implemented for the state carnival which begins on the 6th February. According to the GTDC MD, only the obscenity will not be permitted since this is not the Brazilian carnival. Mr. Desai is correct; we have to preserve our heritage and culture. Goa Prism had also published the news of Dress Code but there is a clear indication that the obscenity will not be permitted.
Mr. Desai was speaking with the media on this issue on Tuesday. He rubbished the rumors of strict dress code calling it ‘just a rumor’, he said that all the regular dress would be allowed which people wear every year for the festivities, “There are no restrictions whatsoever,” said Mr. Desai.
Shalom Sardinha who will be the King Momo this year has also supported the statement of Mr. Desai. “People will be allowed to wear whatever they want to be provided it does not display vulgarity, there is no place for vulgarity in my carnival,” said Shalom.
Shalom, who is a son of former Chief Minister of Goa, Francis Sardinha, had accused one legislator of creation of this confusion in the people’s mind. “According to my knowledge one MLA is trying to create the confusion in the minds of people since I have been selected as King Momo,” he said without naming anyone. “How will people celebrate Carnival without wearing the fun clothes,” he asked.
The carnival is symbolic of Goa’s colonial Portuguese legacy and is held every year before the holy season of Lent. Portuguese ruled this tiny state for more than 400 years and they left their deep impression behind. Goa’s traditions and culture are highly influenced by the colonial rule. Goa is considered as the pearl of the east. Carnival celebration takes place every year in the month of February as a mark of celebration of INTRUZ (the word has been derived from ENTRUDO, an alternative Portuguese name for Carnival). According to the legend, the King Momo rules the state for 4 days with fun frolic, dance and music. King Momo, a mythological character who rules the state for four days during the celebrations.
Source: PTI
