Shigmo Festival in Goa: The Beginning
The 14 days of Shigmo, Goa's Holi festival, start off with much pomp and splendour!
Ghode Modni Dancers (2020-03)Incredible India!
Goa's own Holi Festival
Shigmo Festival is widely celebrated in Goa across 14 days during the onset of spring. While the core legend of Holika and the defeat of evil is celebrated, this festival also honours the victory of Maratha warriors.
A Man Explain the Festival of Shigmo (2020-03)Incredible India!
From floats to folk dances to even firewalking, learn about the granduer of the two week long Shigmo celebrations right from a local!
Musicians Performing at the Procession (2020-03)Incredible India!
On the first day of Shigmo, each village performs the ritual bathing of their deity, dressing the idol in richly hued auspicious robes, offering prayers and food. The idol is carried on a palanquin with organised dances, and a large feast is held for the villagers.
Helping a Man Wear a Turban for the Celebrations (2020-03)Incredible India!
Dressing for Shigmo
A common attire seen during the festival is the traditional saffron turban called the fettha.
Celebrations at the Village Hall (2020-03)Incredible India!
The Music of Shigmo
Those participating in the processions first gather in the prayer halls and practice playing the dhol tashe...
Playing the Dhol Near the Village Hall (2020-03)Incredible India!
...a type of drum particular to folk festivities and prayers. Here we see it worn by the shoulder, or placed on a stand. The beats resound through the length of the streets.
Dhol Tashee (2020-03)Incredible India!
The village children also join in the fun by practicing to playing their own dhol tashe.
Gathering Near the Village Hall (2020-03)Incredible India!
Naman - Prayer Service
The festival is then officially kicked off with naman, a service of prayers and songs revering the local deity.
Getting Ready for Festival (2020-03)Incredible India!
Villagers set out to dressed in colourful attires carrying colourful flags called dhwajas, accompanied by drums, officially kicking off the festivities!
Men Performing the Ghode Modni Dance (2020-03)Incredible India!
Dive deeper into the folk dances of Shigmo and the grand processions.
