Putting an end to the controversy over the proposed ‘mini Sunburn festival’ at Old Goa, Chairman of Goa Rehabilitation Board and Cumbarjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai categorically stated that there are no plans to organise the event. He also said that during the year-end a music festival cannot be held in his constituency as it will clash with the Exposition of the Relics St Francis Xavier.
“There is no question of holding a mini Sunburn festival at Dauji helipad, Old Goa. Also, the Novenas of St Francis Xavier will commence in November and the Exposition which will run through January next year. I do not want anything to clash with the Exposition which is an international event. Also, Sunburn requires a huge area of roughly 40 acres, which is not available in Old Goa. After receiving feedback from my constituents, I want to make it clear that no such event will be organised in Old Goa. This does not align with the people's wishes,” he asserted.
The legislator said that his intent was never to undermine the sanctity or religious significance of Old Goa.
“The opposition is unnecessarily blowing this statement out of proportion.We regret any concern or discomfort these remarks may have caused among the residents and the community at large. We understand and respect the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of this area, especially given the upcoming Exposition. We reiterate our respect for the religious and cultural fabric of Old Goa and assure our constituents that any future plans will be carefully considered with the community’s values and sentiments in mind. Our primary objective remains the well-being and harmony of our constituency,” Faldessai added.