Shalini Deshmukh 1 The streets of Goa were a riot of color, music, and laughter. It was the height of Carnival, and the city was alive with exuberance. Masked revelers danced through the streets, their faces hidden behind glittering masks, their costumes a kaleidoscope of feathers, beads, and sequins. The scent of street food filled the air, mixing with the faint, salty breeze from the sea. Goa, known for its beaches and laid-back charm, had a different pulse during Carnival—a pulse that beat with frenetic energy and reckless abandon. To most, it was a time of celebration, of letting go…