Moga (mascot)

Moga
Moga during the launch in 2023
Description	Indian bison
Origin of name	Konkani word meaning 'love'
First seen	18 June 2023 (18 June 2023)
Related mascot(s)	Gaurdinho
Website	dip.goa.gov.in

Moga (transl. Love) is the official mascot for the upcoming 2023 National Games of India, which will be held in Goa from October to November. Representing the spirit of determination and perseverance, Moga is portrayed as an Indian bison, embodying the qualities of resilience and overcoming challenges. The mascot also symbolizes dedication displayed by athletes towards their respective sports.

Marketing

In a statement made by Govind Gaude, the Sports Minister of Goa, it was emphasized that the element of anticipation surrounding the unveiling of the mascot was crucial in generating public enthusiasm for the sporting events. The minister stressed the necessity of a campaign aimed at fostering genuine interest in the upcoming sports event.

In anticipation of the 2022 National Games of India, the organizers implemented a promotional campaign, as stated by Gaude. Prominent leaders, including Pramod Sawant, the Chief Minister of Goa, utilized social media to raise awareness with the question "Where is Moga". Furthermore, billboards featuring the same inquiry were positioned along the national highway. Gaude noted that this campaign effectively generated significant interest and engagement.

Launch

On 18 June 2023, the launch of Moga took place at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Taleigao. The event was attended by several notable figures, including Pramod Sawant, the Chief Minister of Goa, Govind Gaude, the Sports Minister of Goa, Shripad Naik, the Union Minister of State for Tourism and Ports, P. T. Usha, the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Mary Kom, an internationally renowned boxer, and Bholo Nath Singh, the Secretary General of Hockey India, among other dignitaries.

Kom expressed her belief that Goa has the potential to become a significant sports hub, drawing in a substantial audience of 50,000 attendees. She envisions Goa as a destination known for its combination of beautiful beaches, recreational opportunities, and a thriving sports scene. Acknowledging the logistical challenge of hosting 43 events in Goa.

During the commemoration of Goa's Revolution Day, Sawant conveyed his belief that the Games had the potential to bring about a positive transformation in the sporting landscape of the state. He expressed his hope for the emergence of more accomplished athletes, highlighting the achievements of Arjuna awardees Bhakti Kulkarni and Brahmanand Sankhwalkar as inspiring examples for others to aspire to.

During the event, the official jersey for the Goan contingent was unveiled. Usha conveyed her optimistic outlook, stating her belief that the upcoming Games would witness the establishment of numerous fresh records. The event itself featured musical performances and traditional folk dances performed by Goan artists.

Characteristics

Moga holds a special significance as the representative symbol of Goa. The Sports Minister of Goa, Govind Gaude, emphasized that the bison mascot symbolizes both strength and grace. Gaude further explained that the athletes and sportspeople of Goa exemplify these qualities, displaying unwavering determination, exceptional physical abilities, and a resilient spirit to overcome challenges. Just as the bison fearlessly navigates its natural habitat, Goa's athletes fearlessly take on their opponents, passionately striving for victory. Similar to the bison's relentless drive, these athletes continuously push forward, aiming to achieve greatness in their respective sports.

Backlash

On 20 July 2023, the Goa Legislative Assembly held a session to discuss a matter of concern. During the meeting, there were debates regarding allegations of multi-crore scams related to the infrastructure projects undertaken for the upcoming 2023 National Games of India in the state of Goa. Members of the Opposition expressed their concerns and engaged in a discussion within the assembly, presenting different perspectives on the matter.

Vijai Sardesai, the elected representative for Fatorda, raised concerns regarding the government's expenditure on the logo and mascot Bulbul 'Rubigula' launch in 2020. He pointed out that while the government spent Rs ₹68.44 lakh (US$82,000) on the event, the girl who designed the mascot was paid only ₹15,000 (US$180). Additionally, Sardesai highlighted that the government allocated ₹2.80 crore (US$340,000) to change the mascot to Moga in May of this year. Furthermore, an event management company called Moving Pictures was paid ₹5.59 crore (US$670,000) for their services related to this change. Sardesai questioned the appropriateness of these expenses and sought clarity on the matter, raising the possibility of a potential irregularity.

Sardesai offered a critical perspective on the level of attention generated by Moga, highlighting the notion that the person responsible for its name deserved special recognition. Additionally, he commented on the resemblance between the government-designed Moga mascot and the FC Goa mascot, suggesting that it could be perceived as a less successful attempt at imitation.

Within the context of political opposition, there was an inquiry into the disclosure of payment details pertaining to the launch of the logo, as well as an exploration into the reasons behind the transition from the flame-throated Bulbul mascot 'Rubigula' to the new mascot Moga. Additionally, there was a focus on understanding the financial resources allocated towards the procurement of equipment.

Govind Gaude, the Sports Minister, provided clarification regarding the mascot for the 2020 National Games of India, which were initially planned to be hosted in Goa in October 2020. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the games had to be postponed. The chosen mascot for these games was the flame-throated Bulbul named 'Rubigula'. Despite the setback, the Indian Olympic Association decided to allocate the 37th edition of the National Games to the same host, Goa. As a result, a new official mascot named Moga was selected for the upcoming games.