Renowned Goa Carnival begins with much pomp

The renowned Goa Carnival began on Saturday with a float parade along Mandovi river in Panaji in the presence of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and state tourism minister Rohan Khanute. The four-day long festivities for the first time saw the presence of a helicopter showering flower petals and a fleet of boats accompanying the floats, officials said.

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"Such festivities increase the happiness index of the state," CM Sawant said. The aim was to showcase "old world carnival" to the people, while introduction of a helicopter and a fleet of boats added a modern dimension, Khaunte asserted.

Businessman Russel D'Souza, who was chosen to play 'King Momo', the mythical leader of the carnival, asked people to enjoy responsibly over the next four days.