Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Dec 26: There is a special charm to Christmas in Goa. As the sun sets and the winter chill gently sets in, the air fills with voices and musical instruments. The familiar strains of Christmas carols echo through neighbourhoods, instantly signalling the festive season and drawing people together.

Over the years, carol singing in Goa has evolved beyond being just a prelude to Midnight Mass. What was once a simple religious custom has grown into a vibrant cultural tradition that fosters participation, cultural exchange and a strong sense of community bonding.

Children continue to play a key role in keeping the tradition alive. Recently, the Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts hosted An Evening of Christmas Carols by the Ektaal Children’s Choir, conducted by Nayantara de Lima Leitão. “We train over 20 children throughout the year and perform at various concerts. Children learn quickly and are easy to train. We sing a wide range of carols with different melodies,” she said.

For many Goans, the tradition has changed with time but not lost its essence. Sixty-six-year-old Marcus Fernandes from Taleigao recalls how carol singing was once a door-to-door affair. “When I was young, we went from house to house singing and collecting money for crib-making. Today, carol singing is more of a community gathering. The music is far more polished, very much in tune and melodious,” he said.

Carol singing has also become a social experience. Veena Costa from Carenzalem, who attended a carol event in Panaji, said people now travel from far and wide to enjoy good performances. “My husband and I love attending these events as they allow us to connect with like-minded people. There’s usually a variety of local food on sale, and after the singing we often spend hours catching up with friends,” she shared.

Music professionals, too, see the joy these traditions bring. Singer and music director Vanessa Menezes began training a children’s choir in Margao after being approached by the Child’s Play India Foundation. “We’ve been rehearsing for about a month and have already performed in Margao and Saligao. The children are really enjoying the experience,” she said.

For choir members like Fredrick Fernandes from Panaji, the joy lies in spreading happiness. “We get to practise and sing these carols only once a year, but when we perform in public, many people join in. Knowing we can bring a smile to people’s faces makes it truly special,” he said.

As Christmas carols continue to ring out across Goa, they carry more than music — they spread warmth, togetherness and the enduring spirit of the season.