Taj Exotica Goa rings in the season with tradition and community spirit

At Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Benaulim, South Goa, the festive season of Christmas begins with tradition, togetherness and a celebration of Goa’s enduring spirit of community. This year, the resort marked the season’s arrival with its cherished annual cake-mixing ceremony, hosted under-served communities and persons with disabilities, honouring the true essence of giving and inclusion. Held in the resort’s lush tropical gardens, the ceremony unfolded as a joyful gathering infused with warmth and connection.

Wooden tables were set with bowls of jewel-toned candied fruits, fragrant spices, and sun-soaked nuts which are ingredients symbolic of abundance, prosperity and festive cheer. As the guests tied on aprons and rolled up their sleeves, the space was filled with joy and a sense of belonging. 

A TIME TO SHARE

For over 25 years, Taj Exotica has woven this experience into its calendar not merely as a culinary ritual, but as an opportunity to share the festive spotlight with the local community. The resort continues to uphold the belief that celebrations gain deeper meaning when shared with those around us, especially groups that often remain on the margins of mainstream festivities. This year’s event reaffirmed that philosophy.

The interaction was heartfelt, stories were exchanged, hands guided gently through the process with the simple joy of creating something together becoming a powerful expression of unity. 

“At Taj Exotica, embracing local traditions has been at the heart of who we are for over a quarter of a century. Our cake-mixing ritual is a celebration of community, and there is no better way to welcome the season than by sharing this cherished Goan custom with the people who have been part of our journey. It is a reminder that festivities are most meaningful when they bring people together,” said Sheetal Singh, General Manager of Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Benaulim as she reflected on the experience.

As the mixture was sealed for its slow, fragrant transformation into rich Christmas cakes, the evening concluded with music, hand-picked beverages, Christmas goodies and a lingering sense of joy. At Taj Exotica Goa, the season has truly begun with spices and spirits, generosity, gratitude and the magic of togetherness.