PONDA: Villages across Ponda taluka witnessed vibrant celebrations as the traditional and unique Dendhlo festival was celebrated by locals in Shiroda, Borim, Priol, Savoiverem, and Ponda town as well. This distinctive tradition, observed every year on the third day of Diwali, revolves around the worship of Lord Krishna, a deity associated with pastoral life and cowherds.
The focal point of the celebration involves the veneration of cows, with each household constructing a miniature cowshed using cow dung in their courtyards. Devotees craft an idol of Lord Krishna using materials like hay and leaves, while the ‘kareet’ fruit symbolises the presence of cows. Additionally, replicas of cooking utensils made from cow dung adorn these symbolic cowsheds.
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The festive atmosphere is heightened as devotees, accompanied by enthusiastic youths, embark on a door-to-door procession, chanting the traditional song ‘Dev Dendhlo, Paus Shenlo’, carrying a statue of Lord Krishna on their heads.
Cows are lovingly massaged with oil, bathed and adorned with vermillion and flowers on the occasion and fed with Diwali treats like fov, to thank them for their service. The animals are allowed to rest the entire day, while poojas and aartis are performed.
