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The most
popular celebrations in Goa are Christmas, Easter Sunday,
Ganesh Chaturthi, New Year's Day, the Shigmo festival and
the Carnival. However, since the 1960s, the celebrations of
the Shigmo and carnival have shifted to the urban centres,
and in recent times these festivals are seen more as a means
of attracting tourists. Celebrations for all festivals usually
last for a few days and include parties and balls.
Western English songs have a large following in most parts
of Goa. Traditional Konkani folk songs also have a sizable
following. Manddo, the traditional Goan music which originated
in the nineteenth century, is sung and danced on special occasions.
Goa is also known for its Goa trance music.
Goa has two World Heritage Sites: the Bom Jesus Basilica and
a few designated convents. The Basilica holds the mortal remains
of St. Francis Xavier, regarded by many Catholics as the patron
saint of Goa. Once every decade, the body is taken down for
veneration and for public viewing. The Velhas Conquistas regions
are also known for its Goa-Portuguese style architecture.
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In many parts of Goa, mansions constructed in the Indo-Portuguese
style architecture still stand, though in some villages, most
of them are in a dilapidated condition. Fontainhas in Panjim,
has been declared a cultural quarter, and is used as a living
museum showcasing the life, architecture and culture of Goa.
Some influences from the Portuguese era are visible in some
of Goa's temples, notably the Mangueshi Temple, although after
1961, many of these were demolished and reconstructed in the
indigenous Indian style.
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