Report from Lenny Barretto in Panaji for Daijiworld News Network - Goa

Panaji, Feb 28: The traditional carnival is increasingly getting commercialized with hospitality industry capitalizing on this traditional festivity.

Special Brazilian dancers flown down for midnight carnival at 'On the Rocks' lounge at Baga, carnival fusion displaying special fashion show at 'la Calypso' in Baga, ‘Black and white’s hitchhikers guide to unbelong’ at 'Sweet Chilli' Restaurant, Candolim and various events dazzled carnival nights.

Though Bollywood celebrities could not be spotted in the crowd, the second-rung celebrities including Indian idol Abhijeet Sawant and Fame Gurukul contestant Rex D’souza were found surrounded by female fans at ‘On The Rocks’.

Vj Yudi and Vj Anoushka were found at ‘Sweet Chilli’ with latter performing English numbers to the crowd. Vj Yudi who has three films under his belt was seen giving interviews to the media.

At ‘Sweet Chilli’ the atmosphere was humorous as the kings of slapstick- Yudhishtir and Rohit Malkhani had the crowd in splits with their unmatched wit.

La Calypso saw Goa’s best models rocking the ramp with the creations of fashion designers Monty Sally and Philu Martins also Dj Ryan Beck, Joel, Lasker and Rinton regaled the crowd. Both the designers had the best of their creations on display for the night.

'Just arrived' lounge at Baga – ‘On the Rocks’ at the midnight sizzling with brazillian dancers performing samba - with this  the crowd ushered in real carnival mood, spreading a message of joy.

Lenten programme at Pilar Seminary

The Pilar seminary will be organizing a six-session code on the Gospel according to Matthew during the season of Lent.

It will begin at 9.00 am March 5 (the first Sunday of Lent) and continue every Sunday until April 9 (Palm Sunday). After a genral introduction, there will be inputs on the early life of Jesus, his proclamation of the Kingdom of Heaven, the Sermon on the Mount and the Passion narrative.

Each session will end with Sunday mass followed by lunch. The course will be in English and konkani. Those desiring to participate can contact the Dean, Pilar Theological College, Pilar or email at aimsem@sancharnet.in