I want people to be happy, says new King Momo

A s the date of the

Carnival

approaches, Goa is getting ready to receive its Carnival

king

–

Emeliano

Dias from Raia in South Goa. Emeliano is super excited about the Carnival, which will be held from February 26 to March 1. He tells us, “I can’t wait for the festivities to begin. After I got selected, the next day I went to give the measurements for my costume – it’s a great feeling.” Over the last two years, the pandemic has played spoilsport and the new King Momo wants people to enjoy these four days. “I want people to be happy and have fun, but at the same time be cautious and follow safety protocols – wear masks, maintain safe distance and use sanitisers.”
The selection was very tough, he says, “There were six participants and to be selected King Momo has been not just a privilege but also a matter of pride. The committee interviewed each one of us for almost 20 minutes. It was very interesting to participate.” With many youth being a part of this year’s Carnival, Emeliano tells us, “Youth must be given a role to display their talents and they must be encouraged too.”
He boasts about his performance in Bardroy Barretto’s Nachom-ia Kumpasar, where he performed as a musician in the band. “I’ve also worked in other local movies but they didn’t have as great a response as what Nachom-ia Kumpasar had.”