As part of the ongoing 400-year celebration of the Christian faith in Chicalim, the vibrant and reflective event Xristti Utsov – Let’s Celebrate Nature was held on 20th July at the Village Panchayat Hall, Chicalim. Organized by the Assoi Dongri and Regina Mundi sectors of St. Francis Xavier’s Church, Chicalim, the event was a heartfelt tribute to God’s creation, calling for both celebration and responsibility in caring for nature.
Coconut Palm Art Workshop was a Prelude to the Celebration: The event was preceded by a two-day Coconut Palm Art Workshop held on 18th and 19th July at the Village Panchayat Hall. Led by Mrs. Sabina Da Cunha from Parra, the workshop aimed to reconnect participants with nature through the revival of “Mollam Making”, a traditional art she learned from her grandmother. A volunteer with DRAG and Secretary of the Hemophilia Federation of Goa, Mrs. Da Cunha is passionate about preserving this eco-art by teaching and promoting it. The handcrafted pieces from the workshop were later used as decorations for the main event, beautifully highlighting the hidden artistry of the coconut palm.
The main event on 20th July began with a variety of off-stage and on-stage competitions, all centered around the themes of nature and ecology. Children delighted in a salad decoration competition, while adults participated in the innovative Wild Fresh “Fulam ani Panna Mandopp” contests—creatively using natural elements to craft visually stunning displays.
Poster and slogan competitions added a thoughtful and artistic element, allowing participants to express their environmental awareness and commitment through both visuals and words.
This was followed by sector-wise cultural performances, each conveying a powerful message: to love and celebrate nature, while also taking on the responsibility of safeguarding creation. Participants ranged from children to the elderly, showcasing their talents through street play, skits, dances, mime, song, fashion show, and ramp walk—all celebrating the beauty, balance, and fragility of the natural world.
The event was graced by esteemed guests including representatives from the Diocesan Commission for Ecology (DCE-Goa), Goencho Ekvott, the Convenor, the Pallottine Fathers, the Christian Brothers, and Mrs. Sabina Da Cunha, Mr. Raj Bhandare, Mrs Joyce Teles, and Mrs. Anita Fernandes, whose presence added depth and inspiration to the gathering.
Xristti Utsov was more than just a celebration—it was a call to consciousness, blending faith, tradition, art, and ecology. It reminded the community of the deep connection between spiritual life and environmental care, while giving space for expression, learning, and unity. As part of the 400-year celebration of Christianity in Chicalim, this event will be remembered as a moment that brought together creativity, tradition, and stewardship in one beautiful offering.
