Goa Carnival kicks off

Goa is all set to be soaked in
festive fever in the next four days as the famous colour float parade, led by King Momo, kicked off today.
The parade originated near a bridge across Mandovi river passed D B Bandodkar Road before culminating at Kala Academy.
Over 50,000 people witnessed the parade.
Musician Roque Tome Fernandes who is selected as the King Momo was leading the floats for the parade.
In a conventional way, King Momo declared the decree of eat, drink and be merry for the people of the coastal state.

While participants in some floats raised slogans against terrorism, some had the messages on protecting environment.

The parade was organised by the state Tourism department in collaboration with local committee.
The parade was flagged off by state Chief Secretary Dharmendra Sharma due to the model code of conduct.
The counting of votes for the Assembly elections held on February 4 is scheduled on March 11.
A total 51 floats in different categories participated in the parade which went on for more than four hours.
Police struggled to manage traffic as snarls were seen on all roads leading to Panaji.
"It's a Carnival time. King Momo has decreed no work. Just have fun for next three days in Goa..Viva Goa..Viva Carnival," Goa DGP Muktesh Chandar tweeted.

Originally celebrated by Catholics to mark the countdown towards Lent, Carnival has now become a major attraction for domestic as well as foreign tourists who throng the coastal state for some indulgence.