Panaji: The Goa Forest Development Corporation Ltd. (GFDC) will organise the Goa Forest Diversity Festival 2026, a three-day event celebrating Goa’s rich forest heritage and biodiversity, from January 17 to 19, 2026, at Art Park, Campal, Panaji.
Briefing the media on Thursday, Dr. Deviya Rane said the festival is envisioned as more than a conventional event, describing it as a holistic celebration of Goa’s forests, indigenous knowledge systems and the deep-rooted relationship between nature and local communities. Against the backdrop of increasing environmental challenges, she said the festival aims to create awareness in an engaging, inclusive and accessible manner for people of all age groups.
Dr. Rane outlined three core objectives of the festival: to educate and sensitise citizens—particularly children and youth—about forest conservation and biodiversity; to celebrate traditional wisdom, culture and sustainable practices linked to forest ecosystems; and to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards safeguarding Goa’s natural heritage.
Over the three days, visitors will experience a unique blend of education, culture and celebration. A key attraction will be the Angon Experience, an immersive traditional space showcasing indigenous practices through live demonstrations, storytelling and interactive sessions. Describing it as the festival’s signature feature, Dr. Rane said Angon offers rare insights into sustainable, forest-based lifestyles.
The festival will also present authentic tribal cuisine, highlighting traditional forest-based food practices, while the Green Bazaar will feature eco-friendly products, forest produce and items promoting sustainable living.
Cultural programmes will form an integral part of the festival, with traditional folk performances including Morulo, Jagor acts, Fugdi and other regional art forms. A special musical performance by Sonia Shirsat is scheduled on Day One, followed by band performances on Days Two and Three. The event will also showcase the Goff Dance on Wheels by the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa, underlining inclusion through art, along with powerful theatre performances such as “Mhaka Naka Plastic”, conveying strong messages on conservation and social responsibility.
Calling the Goa Forest Diversity Festival a one-of-its-kind initiative, Dr. Rane said it has been thoughtfully curated to bring together conservation, culture, inclusion and community engagement on a single platform. She also revealed that a special surprise element will be unveiled during the inaugural ceremony, adding to the festival’s uniqueness.
Appealing to the media for support, Dr. Rane urged them to help spread awareness about the festival and encourage public participation, stressing the vital role of the media in taking the message of conservation beyond the venue and into homes across Goa.
Citizens are invited to visit Art Park, Campal, from January 17 to 19, 2026, and be part of this vibrant celebration of nature, culture and community.
