The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, successfully concluded its month-long celebrations of World Tourism Day 2025, with the grand finale of the World Tourism Day Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival at ESG, Panaji. The one day film festival assembled a compelling line-up of films closely tied to Goa’s heritage and culture.
Speaking of the celebrations, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “Our month-long celebration of World Tourism Day 2025 has extended far beyond the boundaries of conventional events. We have seen the young, the elderly and persons with disabilities actively participate, reflecting the inclusive tourism model that Goa is building.
Tourism in our state is no longer confined to beaches or leisure; it is about learning, contributing and leaving every place better than we found it. This year’s activities embody that ethos. As we move forward, we will continue to transform Goa into a world-class, year-round destination rooted in regenerative principles, where every visitor experience strengthens our communities, preserves our culture and nurtures our environment.”
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik added, “Every activity planned under this month-long celebration was designed with ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ at its core, showcasing the authentic and diverse Goa. By involving local communities, homestay owners, youth and women entrepreneurs, we are not just curating unique visitor experiences but also empowering those who form the backbone of our tourism sector. This synergy between stakeholders, government and communities will ensure that tourism in Goa continues to evolve as inclusive, innovative and sustainable.”
The Festival opened with screenings of Postcards from Goa, Islands on Island, Sashticho Koddo, Bread and Belonging, Kharvan, The Birdman of Chorao, Caazu, I Am Nothing, Sadabahar, Conversations on Oviyos, Written in Corners, Petroglyphs and Manohar Rai Sardesai. Conversations with filmmakers including Vince Costa, Elsa de Souza, Sonia Filinto, Nalini Elvino de Sousa, Ronak Kamat and Shaistah Thapar enriched the experience.
The festivities began earlier this month and featured a series of programmes highlighting Goa’s focus on regenerative tourism, community engagement, skill development, and heritage preservation. Throughout September, locals, students, and visitors were invited to step beyond the beaches and experience Goa’s hidden treasures. Activities included bioluminescent forest walks, kayaking and river cruises, cycling tours through Chorao, heritage walks at Aguad and Monte Santo, and bread-making and coconut farming experiences in Goan villages. Each event showcased Goa’s diverse offerings and its regenerative tourism model, one that preserves natural assets, uplifts communities, and enhances visitor experiences with over 300 people.
On 27th September, the celebrations reached their pre-finale with the state’s largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at the Grand Hyatt, which brought together hoteliers, travel trade partners, academics, industry leaders and young entrepreneurs to deliberate on collaborative pathways, emerging markets and sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
The One-Day Film Festival at ESG served as the celebratory finale, drawing an enthusiastic response from students, filmmakers, influencers and tourism enthusiasts. The curated line-up of short films highlighted Goa’s hinterland and coastal experiences, heritage walks, local cuisine, homestays and community-driven initiatives, underscoring the state’s positioning as a hub for creative storytelling and responsible tourism. The festival also provided a platform for young filmmakers and Yuva Tourism Club members to present their vision of Goa’s tourism future through film.
The Department of Tourism extended its gratitude to all stakeholders, students, filmmakers, and industry partners whose participation and support made the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations a resounding success.