With just a few days to go, Goa is set to welcome its Carnival King – Cedric da Costa from Margao, South Goa. Brimming with excitement for the Carnival celebrations scheduled from February 13 to 17, Cedric shares his joy, “It was an incredible feeling to be selected as King Momo for the Goa Carnival 2026. It is both a great privilege and a huge responsibility.” He laughs as he recalls the famous line from the Spider-Man movie, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Cedric adds, “The crown of King Momo symbolizes power, joy, happiness, and care for the people of Goa.” PEOPLE’S PERSON A natural people’s person, Cedric comes from an entertainment-driven background and initially began his journey in journalism. Today, he wears many hats – working as an emcee and event planner, and being actively involved in banking and politics. He is also passionate about sustainability and environmental initiatives, proudly describing himself as having a “big green thumb.”“I have a strong connection with people. I understand their concerns and their lives. This year, as King Momo, I have already begun reaching out through the King Momo Goa Carnival Outreach Initiatives,” he says. He encourages locals and visitors alike to participate wholeheartedly in the festivities – attend the floats dressed in vibrant attire, celebrate responsibly, and spread the love, joy, peace, and colour that define Goa’s Carnival spirit, from schoolchildren to senior citizens. THE KUNBI FEATURE Deeply committed to preserving Goa’s cultural identity, Cedric plans to highlight the traditional Kunbi fabric. “I want to bring the Kunbi fabric into the spotlight,” he explains. His slogan, proudly expressed in Konkani, reflects this vision: “Amchem Goy, Amcho Lok, Amcho Carnaval – Viva Goa, Viva Carnival.” Designer Verma Dmello has crafted Cedric’s costume. Dmello said, “At first glance, it is unmistakably a King Momo outfit, yet it has been infused with Goan elements that set it apart. One of its most significant features is the use of Kunbi fabric. With lakhs of people set to witness King Momo, this felt like a golden opportunity to showcase and promote Kunbi fabric on such a grand platform.” A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE For Cedric, Carnival also evokes cherished childhood memories. The last Sunday before Lent – celebrated as Carnival Sunday – coincides with the Feast of St Sebastian at Aquem Alto, Margao, making it a double celebration for Margaokars. He fondly recalls attending the feast Mass, visiting the fair, and later enjoying festive family meals. “During the three days of Carnival, everything else took a backseat,” he reminisces. “I would rush out of the house whenever the vans passed by to the sound of the ghumot. Those moments were magical. Over the years, we have even seen Bollywood celebrities join the Carnival celebrations,” he says.
