Don Bosco College, Panjim, successfully hosted ‘Celestia’, an inter-collegiate choir competition organized by the Campus Ministry Cell in collaboration with Club Cadenza, led by Faculty In-charge Asst Prof Dr Frazer Taylor on 25th September 2025. The event, themed “Messengers of Hope”, aimed to foster unity and togetherness among students through the universal language of music.
The program commenced with a quote by Victor Hugo: “Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.” The chief guest for the event was Prof. Dr. Allan Joseph Abreu. Dignitaries were welcomed with a potted plant, followed by a prayer by Asst Prof Sr Cathrine Prisilda DHM, and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.


Asst Prof Dr Frazer Taylor shared the inspiration behind the event, emphasizing that Celestia was not merely a performance-based competition but an opportunity for students to unite their voices in spreading joy and hope while lifting praises to God. The Principal, Dr Cedric Silveira, delivered the welcome address, followed by the introduction of the chief guest by Asst Prof Andrea D'Souza. In his address, Prof. Allan Joseph Abreu encouraged students to focus on consistent performance rather than competition, reminding them to never lose hope. The event was officially inaugurated by Prof. Allan by strumming a guitar.
The college choir performed the first item, setting a lively and inspiring tone for the competition. The judges for the event were Br James Marcus SDB, Ms Swizel Costa, and Mr Gary Savio Coutinho, introduced by the college counsellor, Ms Grabien Alemao.


A total of 10 teams from 8 colleges participated in the competition. Each team was allotted 10 minutes to perform two hymns, one of which was required to be in Konkani. In his concluding remarks, Br. James Marcus appreciated the efforts of all participants, and both students and faculty shared their feedback on the performances. The vote of thanks was delivered by Asst. Prof Dr Frazer Taylor.
The competition concluded with Team John (Rosary College, Navelim) securing first place, Team Jude (Xavier’s College, Mapusa) in second place, and Team Paul (Don Bosco College of Engineering, Fatorda) in third place. The event ended on a celebratory note, highlighting the spirit of music, collaboration, and togetherness.