# Bonderam By August, the fields brim with life. A drive
through Divar takes you through long stretches of paddy crops ready for
reaping. In such blissful environs you would be surprised that once mock
battles were staged by the villagers and boundaries drawn to protect their
fields. When questions arose on the method to demarcate boundary lines, the
Portuguese government came up with the solution of using colourful bandeiras or
flags.That’s where the festival got its name. And it still continues to be celebrated
by two wards: Sao Piedade and Malar. Today this festival has achieved
international fame and the day is prominently slotted in travel itineraries
well in advance. The day’s events begin with the customary flag
off before the procession , recalling old traditions, makes its way to the
various wards along the boundary lines. In the old days, the celebration was
restricted to the flag parade and playful battles with pop-guns (fotash). But
with mischief makers overusing the fotash, its use was banned. But with the
float parade making its way into the celebrations, the festival grew in scale
and attracted huge crowds from all parts of Goa, the rest of the country and
the world.While the main festival is held in the last week of August, Malar
kicks off the Bonderam celebrations a week before. Though smaller in scale , it
still retains its authentic charm. The preparations begin weeks before with
youngsters practicing their moves and the elders getting other arrangements in
place. The floats are carefully and artistically pieced
together by the locals.Two years ago, Marius Fernandes, Goa’s festekar ,
introduced the Bonderachi pasoi, a heritage walk through the wards that allows
guests to meet with the locals, listen to their old stories and eat local food.
The entertainment program continues once the group gets back to the main
venue.The next day, the first corn is cut and offered for blessings to the gods
# Ghadanchi
Jatra The unique festival of deity Sri Dev Bhabreshwar is held
annually at Khobrawado, Calangute in North Goa. This festival is famously known
as “Kelyanchi” or “Ghadanchi Jatra” (Festival of Banana Bunches), as devotees
offer an entire bunch of bananas to this deity. The shrine is located on the
famous beach stretch between Calangute & Baga.In a day, over 2500 bunches
of bananas are offered to the deity. These bunches are then tied to a make-do
wooden frame, over the deity, creating an aesthetic roof of banana bunches. The
additional bunches (raw or ripe) are auctioned, every evening.This festival is
celebrated every year in the month of February attracting thousands of locals
and tourists.
# Goa
Carnaval 2023
The Goa Carnaval, also
known as Carnaval, is a vibrant and colourful festival that takes place
annually in the state of Goa, India. Today, the festival has become one of the
most popular and well-known cultural events in India, attracting visitors from
all over the world.
The festival typically takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent and features
a range of events and activities that showcase the unique heritage and
traditions of Goa. These include parades, music performances, dance
competitions, food festivals, and cultural displays.
The highlight of Carnaval is the parade, which winds through the streets of
major Goan towns and cities across the state. The parade features a variety of
floats, dancers, and musicians, all dressed in elaborate costumes. The
procession is led by King Momo, a mythical figure who is said to be the king of
Carnaval.
Carnaval is a time of joy, celebration, and cultural expression, and has become
an important part of the Goan calendar. During the festival, the streets of Goa
come alive with a festive atmosphere that is unlike anything else in India.
Visitors can expect to enjoy traditional Goan cuisine, including seafood
delicacies and refreshing drinks that the region is well known for. The
festival is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich and diverse culture
of Goa and to celebrate with locals and visitors alike.
# History Of Carnaval
The history of Carnaval
dates back to the Portuguese colonial era when the festival was introduced to
celebrate the arrival of the season of Lent. The word ‘Carnaval’ is derived
from the Latin word ‘carne vale’, which means ‘farewell to meat’, as Lent is a
period of fasting and abstinence.
Goa was a colony of Portugal for over 450 years, and during this time, the
Portuguese influence on the culture and traditions of Goa was significant. The
first recorded instance of Carnaval celebrations in Goa dates back to the mid-18th
century, and the festival was known as ‘Entrudo’ at the time.
During the festival, people would indulge in merrymaking and excess, with
street parties, feasts, and dancing. The tradition of throwing coloured powder
and water at each other also became a popular part of the festivities.
After India gained independence from British rule in 1947, Goa remained under
Portuguese control until 1961. It was during this time that the modern-day
version of the Goa Carnaval began to take shape. It was modelled after the Rio
Carnaval of Brazil by a local musician named Timoteo Fernandes to attract
tourists.
The festival was seen as an opportunity to celebrate Goan culture and
traditions, and it was also a way for the local people to protest against the
Portuguese regime. Today, it has evolved into a major cultural event celebrated
by the various different communities of the state.
# Dates And Locations The Carnaval takes place
annually in the month of February or March, depending on the date of Easter.
The festival typically lasts for four days. For the year 2023, the Carnaval
will take on the 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st of February.
The Goa Carnaval is celebrated in towns and cities across the state, but the
main centre of the festivities is the capital city of Panaji. The Carnaval
parade in Panaji is the largest and most elaborate, and it draws thousands of
visitors.
In addition to Panaji, other major towns and cities across Goa also hold their
own Carnaval celebrations. Other cities the Carnaval will be held at include
Margao, Vasco da Gama, Mapusa, Porvorim and Morjim. The Carnaval celebrations
are also held in many villages and small towns across the state, with each
community adding its unique flavour and style to the festivities.
# Chikhal
Kalo
Marcel, a charming
village situated in Goa, India, is renowned for its stunning natural scenery,
abundant foliage, and tranquil ambience. Nestled amidst captivating landscapes,
the village serves as a serene sanctuary, offering a peaceful respite from the
bustling city life. Despite its small size, Marcel provides a captivating
glimpse into the traditional Goan way of life, presenting a serene getaway for
its visitors.
Within the village, an enthralling traditional festivity called Chikhal Kalo
takes place, translating to “Mud Bath.” This celebration pays homage to the
profound bond shared between the farming community of Goa and our nurturing
Mother Earth.
Chikhal Kalo, a religious festival exclusive to the village of Marcel in Goa,
is a rare combination of devotion and enjoyment. It occurs annually on the 11th
day of the Hindu month of Ashadh, held within the expansive grounds of the
Devki Krishna temple. The arrival of the monsoon ensures that the temple
premises are transformed into a muddy terrain, which becomes a vital component
of the ensuing excitement.
In addition to lively dancing, the festival features traditional games like
chendu fali (resembling cricket) and gilli danda. The slippery mud surface
induces participants to repeatedly tumble and become coated in mud—an integral
part of the ritual, hence the name Chikhal Kalo. Embracing the essence of the
tradition, individuals eagerly immerse themselves in the joyous muddiness,
reveling in the experience.
Join us for the vibrant and exhilarating Chikhal Kalo Festival, a cherished
celebration of tradition and joy, taking place on the 29th of June at the
magnificent Devki Krishna temple in Marcel, Goa. Get ready for a day filled
with devotional celebrations, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories!
Date: June 28th to 30th Venue: Devki Krishna Temple, Marcel, Goa
# Highlights of the
Chikhal Kalo Festival
a.Tradition and Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural
heritage of Goa as we honor the deep bond between the farming community and
Mother Earth. b.Devotional Celebrations: Witness the enchanting rituals and
ceremonies performed at the Devki Krishna temple, infusing the atmosphere with
spirituality and reverence. c.Joyous Mud Bath: Discover the thrill of Chikhal Kalo, the
festival’s centerpiece. Engage in the exhilarating tradition of playing in the
mud, where the temple grounds transform into a playground of joy and merriment. d.Cultural Performances: Delight in captivating cultural
performances showcasing the vibrant arts and traditions of Goa. From
mesmerizing folk dances to soulful music, experience the rich tapestry of Goan
culture come alive on stage. e.Traditional Games: Test your skills and have fun with activities
like chendu fali (similar to cricket) and gilli danda, creating joyful moments
of friendly competition. f.Delectable Cuisine: Savor traditional dishes prepared with love
and care, tantalizing your taste buds with the vibrant spices and unique
ingredients of Goa. g.Community Bonding: Celebrate togetherness and connect with the
warm-hearted people of Marcel as the entire community comes together for this
festive extravaganza.
# Chorotsav
The spring festival is something to be experienced in villages
across the length and breadth of Goa. It is the time of year when villagers
settled elsewhere return to their roots to participate in the festive season.
Many villages are known for some unique feature of their own and are identified
by these singular festivals.Amongst the many festivals and rituals, Chorotsav,
held during Shigmo or Holi in other parts of the country, is one that spreads
joy to the villagers of Zarme in Mauxi, about 6 kms from Valpoi. Yet another
place known for this festival is Caranzol in Savordem in Sattari taluka.
The festival forms a chapter in the village’s history. The story revolves
around some youths who were killed by the villagers as they were mistaken to be
robbers (Chors), though no one knows the exact history of this age-old
practice. The story goes that in the past, people commuted through the forest
for work or to collect produce from nature’s bounty. They travelled from
village to village from the foothills, climbing across the Western Ghats.
During one such daily routine, youths from a neighbouring village who were
suspected to have commited robbery were killed. The distraught families of the
youth, in search of their loved ones, learn of the tragic fate that had
befallen them. The villagers then understand their folly and in order not
invite a curse on themselves, repent over their grave error. The villagers of
these two places play out an act as punishment. The participating youths are
called Chors. In all, eight youths participate in Zarme while a similar act is
played by nine youths in Caranzol.
It is quite a task before the actual event begins as the preparations take a
while and the act folds up within 10 to 20 minutes in front of the Saptamatrika
temple. In this risky operation performed on a full moon night and held at a
sacred place called Chavatho, four youths are buried in a pit with only their heads
above the surface. Four others have their heads buried below the ground with
the rest of the body exposed on the surface with swords in their hands. A large
audience gathers to witness this event with excitement as the drumbeats fall
silent and the Chors are revealed to the enthusiastic crowd.
These dramatics are best viewed at Caranzol in front of the Kuldevta temple
where seven Chors are buried with one raised on a spear and another lying on a
platform wearing a garland of leaves. The event begins after an invocation near
a place called Wadakade (meaning ‘near a Banyan plant’).Chorotsav is a festival
during Shigmo that reminds one of the ancestral practice of repentance and one
which is never missed by the regulars. It is also a signature event in the
historic village of Mauxi, also known for its rock art.The place, about 66 kms
from Panaji, is easily reached via Valpoi.
# Divzam
Goa is not
defined just by what’s seen along the coast. Its rich traditions define Goa’s
socio-cultural heritage.Casual visitors may not know of this heritage. While a
festival like Diwali is widely celebrated, Goa has another unique celebration
that is also associated with light. It’s known as Divzam. This folk tradition
can be seen during the various temple zatras held across the State. A divzam is
a special lamp, now made in metal.People of select communities commemorate this
festival. These include the Gurav, Naique, Gaude, Dessai, Dhobi, Mahar,
Chambar, Malo, Mest and Cumbar who are entrusted with following and keeping up
this tradition. Morjim, Chopdem, Mandrem, Dhargal, Khorgao and Siolim are some
of the villages famous for their celebration of Divzam. The participants first observe a fast and
thereafter visit the temple to pray. The temple priest takes the divzam and
does the aarti before handing it back to them. Then the palki with the idol is
taken in procession around the temple. Special food is cooked in the temple and
a plate is kept before the deity. There are certain rituals to be followed by
the participants. For instance, for first time performers, young girls who have
not attained puberty are dressed as young brides to light the lamp.There’s also
a special oil that is used to light the dizvam.Apart from the festival of
Divzam, Diwali is the next major commemoration. This falls in the month of
Kartik and is a celebration of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. Around the
villages and towns the darkness of the night is dispelled by the tiny sparkling
lights of diyas or earthen lamps. And of course there are the usual
firecrackers.
# Ganesh
Chaturthi
The most
important and almost the national festival for Goan’s is the Ganesh Chaturthi
known as ‘Chovoth’. The festivities run into several days, but minimum at least
for one and half days, when puja of Gouri and Mahadev along with Ganapati, is
performed. On the Chovoth day, in the morning or evening, a clay idol of
Ganapati is brought home. Before that a matov (a small pandal above the place
where the idol is place) is prepared with bunches of betel nut, coconut, bananas
and branches of mango-trees being necessary ingredients of it. The puja of
Ganapati goes on until mid-day. The puja is performed with the help of the
pandit. On the second day, in the evening or at night, after performing the
uttar puja of the image of Ganapati, it is taken in procession and immersed
into a water body be it the sea, creek, river, lake or well. Before the idol is
removed from its stand for immersion, it is besought for the welfare of the
household and its members. The festival of Chovath or Ganesh Chaturthi is
celebrated in Goa with pomp and gaiety as preparations for this grand
celebration begins well in advance with houses spruced up with a new coat of
paint besides decorations and multi-coloured lighting. With the community festival
gaining prominence in recent times, people travel to different places to view
some fascinating presentations of eco-friendly Ganesh idols. The villages of
Cumbharjua, Marcel and St Estevan enjoy a just reputation for their giant
images of Ganapati made from different raw materials.While the festival is
celebrated for one-and-a-half days in most houses, it can stretch upto 11 days.
In community celebrations, the idol is worshipped for 9 to 21 days. The celebration at Cumbharjua is very
significant as the Ganesh immersion is held on the seventh day on the occasion
of Sangod. A villager, Vinod Phadte provided a short brief on how the Sangod
festival came into existence, though it is difficult to pinpoint when the
custom began. He says, “During Portuguese rule in Goa, the temple of Shri
Shantadurga Cumbharjuwekarin was shifted from Corlim to Cumbharjua and then to
its present location of Marcel. There was a businessman in Cumbharjua who was
in financial difficulties. As a result, he left the Ganesh idol in the temple
of the deity. So as a commemoration of the times, the idol is carried on a
Devicho Sangod on the 7 th day and then immersed. This tradition led to the
origin of the famous Cumbharjua Sangod festival which is celebrated anew every
year with enthusiasm.” It is a colourful procession of small canoes and
boats carrying floats enacting some mythological scenes, very commonly
showcased during the Shigmo parade in the towns of Goa. Sangod involves the
tying of two canoes together with a platform or characters to perform some act.
In recent times, social messages and political events are also portrayed, which
are taken in the right sporting spirit without hurting anyone’s
sentiments.People participate in large numbers at this festival with a sizable
audience watching the different floats from the banks of Cumbharjua canal and
from the bridge, all creating a festive atmosphere.
# Sao
Joao Viva Sao Joao! June sets across Goa.
The skies turn grey as the clouds empty themselves across the landscape. It is in
this atmosphere that the village wells in Siolim become the centres of much joy
and celebration. It’s the fest of Sao Joao.24 June is considered as the fest of
St John the Baptist. Some old observances are linked to this festival . Among
them, the new son-in-law is invited to the bride’s home to celebrate the feast,
in another he is paraded around the village wearing a crown made from fresh
flowers and wild berries. He then jumps into the closest well.
Today both young and old join in the the festivities of jumping into the well
to the sounds of the ghumot and cansaim. They are offered sweets, fruits and
feni. However, caution is advised if you’re a visitor and wish to join in the
revelry. Jumping into wells is not for everyone.C Alvares’ ‘Sao Joao’ popularised
this festival with its catchy tunes. It’s still sung today at such events. The
day before, an effigy of Judev is burnt to symbolise the passing of the Old
Testament.
There are a few places in Goa that are the hotspots for Sao Joao celebrations. In
Siolim, the epicenter of the festival, throngs flock to witness the unique
float parade along the river in front of the church.Locals get creative with
their boats and deck them up in festive colours and themes related to nature.
Entertainment programs run throughout the day to add to the celebratory
atmosphere.Baga celebrates a special sangodd in which two boats, tied together
with bamboos, signify union of body and soul. A stage is set up and a small
altar dedicated to St John is made on the boat. In the afternoon, the villagers
gather near the cross and then the participants step on board and move on
towards Arpora before returning home.
# Saptah
Celebrations
Goa has been blessed with inter-religious
harmony with the various communities coexisting peacefully. With
its busy festive calendar, August is an auspicious month for all religious
communities.The blessings of Goa’s gods and goddesses have been sought for a
good crop, to ward off evil or to start a new chapter in life. In
the past, devotees travelled long distances to pray for protection
against plagues and other pestilences.
Once such victory over a major disaster is celebrated every Nagpanchi in
Vasco-da-Gama. The port town revives its old faith and gratitude to Lord
Damodar who rescued their ancestors from the clutches of a dreaded disease.
It’s unclear whether this was a plague or cholera.Popular lore dates the
tradition to 1898 when the disease wreaked havoc across the town. Locals
decided to pay obeisance at the Lord Damodar temple in Zambaulim. The
long, arduous journey was made and the prasad brought back with a coconut
placed in the home of a prominent businessman, Anant Joshi.
The coconut was installed on July 28, 1898. The place today in the hall of the
residence has been turned into a small temple.The increasing
faith in Lord Damodar by the locals led to the Saptah celebrations. A 24-hour
non-stop bhajan is the highlight along with a week-long mela. The Maharudrap
pooja on the day after Nagpanchmi welcomes about 30 to 40 Brahmins to
perform the auspicious rituals.
The activities for the Saptah begin with fervour at 12.30 pm after
Nagpanchami with the offering of a coconut to Lord Damodar by an
elder of the Joshi family. The subsequent recitation of bhajans continues for
24 hours.At night a beautifully decorated tableaux (par) with mythological
themes is brought in procession to the temple. The following day, the blessed
coconut is paraded on the street along with dindi and chanting. The
coconut is then dipped into the sea before the procession returns home.
# Shigmo
Shigmo is one of
the biggest festivals that falls either in March or April. A spring festival
that is celebrated in music, song and dance. The commemorations have moved from
the village centres to grand parades through the towns. Large crowds witness
the spectacular performances. A float parade winds its way down the streets
once the sun sets and the lights come on.The music is typically dhol, taasha
and kasale. Usually the festivities revolve around the village Mand. The
Mand-dev and folk dieties are an essential part of the traditions. Goa observes
two varieties of Shigmo: Dhakla (younger) and Thorla (Elder). The first is
celebrated in Tiswadi, Ponda, Calangute and Quepem while the other in Bardez,
Sattari, Bicholim and Pernem. In dance, the rombat form is popular. Here
groups of dancers join in dressed in colourful attire. The elaborate attire and
variety of instruments make this form special.Historic and comic elements
combine to impart a rich and unique flavor to this festival.. Both these
elements are evident in the different dance forms like Veeramel, Gade,
Ghodemodni that highlight the heroic aspect. The comic aspects come through in
the Zagor, Ranmalyem, Khele and Romat.Given its nature worship, the dance is
dedicated to the gods and goddesses Shantaguru-Kuti, Santeri, Ravalnath,
Shantadurga-Damodar and others. The festival also showcases the varied cultural
aspects of Goa. Most of these dances are performed at the various Shigmo
parades in towns across Goa. It’s a wonderful experience to witness these first
hand as Goa’s traditions come alive. All these celebrations culminate at the
frenzied climax of Holi, the festival of colours.
