Dharbandora, February 26, 2025: Amidst the serene beauty of Goa’s hinterlands, Shiv Mahotsav 2025 unfolded as a grand celebration of spirituality, tradition, and cultural vibrancy. Organized by Goa Tourism, the festival was held at Satpal Ground, Sacorda, Molem, Tambdi Surla Road, Dharbandora, bringing together thousands of devotees, cultural performers, and visitors in a spectacular Maha Shivratri celebration that highlighted Goa’s rich spiritual traditions, culture, and artistic heritage.
The festival was inaugurated in the presence of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, MP Rajya Sabha Sadanand Tanavade, GTDC Chairman Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Sadicha Ganesh Gaonkar, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar, Amol Deshmukh, Abhijit Jog, Ashutosh Jawdekar, Arun Bicholkar, GTDC Dy General Manager Deepak Narvekar, along with ZP members and Sarpanchs from various panchayats. The festival also saw the presence of Indian actress Sonalee Kulkarni and singer-musician Avadhoot Gupte, adding to the festive spirit.
A series of meticulously curated performances added to the grandeur of the event. The celebrations featured:
A powerful Dhol Tasha performance by Barabhumi Sansthan, capturing the rhythmic energy of Shiv Ganas. A spellbinding Bharatanatyam recital on Shiva Bhakti by renowned artist Pavitra Bhat. A Nrutya Natika on Shiv Sthuti, a dramatic dance presentation by artists from Barabhumi Sansthan.
The Ganga Aarti ceremony, performed by Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar and other dignitaries, added to the divine ambiance. The night culminated in a soulful live performance by legendary Bollywood singer Sudesh Bhosle, who enthralled the audience with Shiv Stuti, Bhakti Geet, and other devotional compositions.
CM Pramod Sawant, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the untapped beauty of Goa’s hinterlands. He stated, “Beyond the beaches, the real beauty of Goa lies in its hinterlands and interior regions. We will focus on promoting spiritual and temple tourism, highlighting the state’s rich cultural and religious heritage.” He further announced that the event venue, being government-owned land, will henceforth be known as Shivmaidan.
Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman, GTDC, said, “Shiv Mahotsav is more than a celebration; it is a step towards promoting Goa’s rich spiritual heritage. The historic Sri Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla is a testament to our deep-rooted traditions. Through events like these, we aim to highlight its significance while encouraging spiritual and hinterland tourism. I urge the people of Goa to support this movement and take pride in showcasing the real Goa to the world.”
MP Rajya Sabha Sadanand Tanavade also stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Goa’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
A special moment of the event was the release of the book ‘Me Ganesh Gaonkar’, chronicling the remarkable journey of Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, unveiled by CM Pramod Sawant and other dignitaries. The CM and Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar also felicitated each other, alongside other dignitaries.
As part of the cultural engagement, a Rangoli competition on the theme of Mahadev’s avatars and Shiv Ganas, along with a Veshbhusha Spardha themed around Lord Shiva and Hindu gods & goddesses, provided a platform for young talent to showcase their creativity.
GTDC MD Kuldeep Arolkar welcomed the gathering, while the vote of thanks was delivered by GTDC Dy General Manager Deepak Narvekar, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, artists, and attendees for making Shiv Mahotsav 2025 a grand success.
On February 26, Prasad distribution was held at Sri Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla. Shiv Mahotsav 2025 stood as a true testament to Goa’s spiritual richness, drawing visitors in search of an immersive cultural experience beyond the scenic landscapes.
