India - Kunbi Dance

Kunbi dance is a tribal folk dance of the Kunbi community of Goa that potrays social themes. The dance is simple in its presentation and is performed during various social occasions.

Sent by Abhay who sent this from Goa, India.

 

Kunbi, named after the indigenous farming community of Goa, traces its origins to the agrarian lifestyle prevalent in rural Goa. Historically performed by the Kunbi tribe during agricultural festivals and social gatherings, this dance form is a symbolic expression of gratitude for a bountiful harvest and a means of celebrating life's joys and challenges. The dance is characterized by its simplicity and rhythmic movements, reflecting the close bond between the people and the land. Over the years, Kunbi has evolved from a tribal ritual to a cherished cultural tradition, embraced by various communities across Goa (read further).

India - Wooden Statue of St. Francis Xavier

Wooden statue of St. Francis Xavier, Old Goa (Velha Goa).

Sent by Raghav from India.

"Church of St. Francis of Assisi is situated to the west of Se Cathedral in the Convent of St. Francis of Assisi. These were made by the Franciscan mendicants, 8 of whom came to Goa in 1517 AD. It was initially a chapel and modified into a church in 1521 AD, dedicated to the Holy Spirit on 2nd August 1602. To begin with, the convent was made by the mendicants as their residence and underwent alterations in 1559 AD. The Portuguese government closed the convent in 1835 AD. The church has been converted into a museum by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1964. The church displays artifacts, paintings and pieces of Hindu temple sculptures from Goa.

The architecture is a combination of the Tuscan style from the exterior and the Mosaic-Corinthian style from the interior. The interior of the church is gilded with the scenes from the Bible and wall frescoes show intricate floral designs. The niche of the façade holds the statue of St Michael and a wooden statue of St Francis Assisi decorates the pedestal in one of its chapel. A heavily carved niche with tabernacle supported by four evangelists can be seen in the main altar. Two huge statues, one of St Francis Assisi and the other of the Jesus on the Cross, are placed above the tabernacle." (Source)

India - Mobor Beach

Mobor Beach in Goa, India.

Sent by Raghav from India.

"Mobor beach lies on a narrow spit of sand dunes between the Arabian Sea and Assolna River Estuary. The stretch of the beach is a full 10 km. The Mobor Beach is perhaps the most happening and popular holiday destination in Goa. One can look around for souvenirs, gifts antiques and handicrafts to take back home from the local beachside shops. One may also find local Goan drink Feni in these shops. Mobor beach is situated in the north of Goa. Mobor beach in Goa is very beautiful and very clean .Accommodation is also available for budget and economy class travelers though not on the beach itself." (Source)