The Viral Goan Song You Need to Hear

Goychea Saibak Dorxon, a song by Pio Agnelo Fernandes, has been creating a buzz on the internet, inspiring audiences to the extent that influencers on Instagram have started making reels featuring it. Goychea Saibak Dorxon is a moving composition that captures the essence of Goan devotion to St. Francis Xavier. It serves as both a prayer and a celebration, uniting listeners through its heartfelt lyrics and spiritual themes. 

The passionate lyricist Pio Angelo Fernandes, is a resident of Fatorda, Margao. He is also a composer, singer, producer, and a businessman. He has been running a sports and fitness business near Our Lady of Rosary Church School, Margao for 15 years. Known for presenting original Konkani musical concerts, Pio has performed across Goa’s villages and recently represented Goa at the UK Goa Day 2023 in London. He expresses gratitude to God for his talents in song writing and composing unique tunes. 

Speaking of his inspiration for the song, he said, “As a child, seeing St. Francis Xavier’s relic during the feast deeply moved me. Over the past 470 years, Goans have remained devoted to him, honouring him. Inspired by this enduring love, I created this song as a tribute to amcho ‘Goycho Saib’. St. Francis Xavier, the saint of Goa and the world, is admired and respected by every Goan for his unwavering faith in Christ. The song’s theme revolves around the Exposition, held every 10 years, inviting all to experience the saint’s blessings and deepen their faith by venerating his relic.”

Goychea Saibak Dorxon, with its simple yet powerful message has become an anthem for the Exposition, drawing people closer to their faith. The repetitive and catchy chorus, "Goycho Saib, Goycho Saib, darshan tujem gheunk yetam Goycho Saib," emphasizes the reverence and longing to seek blessings from the saint. 

It creates a strong spiritual resonance and unites the listeners in prayerful devotion. The verses of the song narrate St. Francis Xavier’s virtues, his testimony of Christ, and his compassionate intercession for the people of Goa.

The song beautifully reflects themes of unity, as it portrays St. Francis Xavier as a unifying figure for all Goans. Elaborating on this Pio Agnelo Fernandes remarked, “to emphasize Goan unity, I included singers from diverse faiths - Hindu, Muslim, and Christian. Their passionate contributions, given freely out of love and respect for Goycho Saib, embody the spirit of harmony and devotion. I am profoundly grateful to them for making this song a heartfelt offering to our beloved saint.” The bridge and ending of the song reinforce the saint’s protective presence and the gratitude of the faithful, making it both a prayer and a celebration.

By framing the Exposition as a moment of collective devotion, the song preserves Goan heritage while inviting people to strengthen their faith. The imagery of pilgrims gathering for the darshan reflects both personal and communal spirituality. 

In appreciation for the song, Senon de Souza, on the trumpet said, “Every Goan has a deep devotion to Gõycho Saib, evident from the large crowds that have gathered and continue to visit Old Goa from across the globe to seek his blessings. Pio Agnelo has excelled in crafting meaningful lyrics paired with a melodious composition, structured with verses, chorus, bridge, and an impactful outro. Revlon Jackson has delivered outstanding music production, mixing, and mastering, while every singer gave their absolute best. Josephfern and his entire team have done a phenomenal job with the video and post-production. It was truly a pleasure to be part of this exceptional production.”

Shakil Ahmed a Bollywood Playback Singer from Davorlim, also a part of this song said, “As Goans, we all firmly believe in Goencho Saib. When Agnelo shared the demo of the lyrics and melody with me, I was thrilled to be part of such a soulful, Sufi-inspired song. I wholeheartedly thank Mr. Agnelo Pio for promoting peace and harmony among all religions in Goa. Kudos to Agnelo and the entire team for creating this inspiring and unifying masterpiece!”

This song not only captures the spiritual essence of Goans but also underscores the universal appeal of St. Francis Xavier as a symbol of faith, unity, and harmony.

By Fr Carlos Luis, SAC