Nilankur Das
Here, in Goa, the night before Diwali is one of flickering flames, towering effigies, and the smell of burning papier-mâché. This is the night of Narakasura, a celebration deeply etched in the state’s cultural and artistic heritage. For generations, this annual tradition has shaped the creative minds of Goan children, igniting an early passion for art. The making of the giant, grotesque effigies of the demon Narakasura, which are paraded through the streets and then set alight, is often the first hands-on experience in art for many Goan youngsters. It’s a practice that has given birth to countless professional artists, sculptors, and designers across the state.
Compressing the lore, Narakasura was a demon king defeated by Lord Krishna, a victory that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. In Goa, the night before Diwali, this victory is celebrated with the making of these larger-than-life effigies, meticulously crafted by teams of artists, both amateur and professional. The effigies can range from a few feet to nearly 25 feet tall, and they represent the monstrous Narakasura in all his demonic grandeur—fanged teeth, bulging eyes, and fiery colours.
For the children of Goa, participating in the creation of these effigies is almost a rite of passage. From a young age, they watch as their fathers, uncles, and neighbours come together to sculpt the figures using bamboo frames, cloth, and layers of papier-mâché. Eventually, the children are invited to help, often tasked with painting or adding embellishments. This early exposure to creating something from scratch, combined with the thrill of watching it come to life (and then go up in flames), ignites a passion for craftsmanship that stays with them for life.
Many of Goa’s established artists and sculptors credit the tradition of Narakasura for their artistic awakening. It’s an experience that gives children their first taste of art and the collaborative process of making something monumental. The physicality of building the effigies—the shaping of the frame, the layering of materials, the attention to detail in the facial expressions and the vibrant colours—provides young minds with an invaluable education in both technique and creative thinking.
One artist, now a renowned sculptor in Goa, recalls how he first learned about the importance of balance and structure while helping build a Narakasura effigy as a child. “You can’t just stack things up; it has to be sturdy, or it’ll collapse before the parade even starts,” he said. “I remember the first time I helped with the frame. I didn’t understand why we had to criss-cross the bamboo poles, but once I saw it take shape, it clicked.”
For some, this early exposure led them to specialise in mechanical movements, making Narakasura effigies that move and sway as they are carried through the streets. These larger-than-life figures are constructed with dried hay, metal, bamboo planks, wooden strips, and hard twisted wires. The bodies are stuffed with clothes, cardboard, hay, and an array of other innovative materials. The goal is to craft a menacing and captivating demon, complete with fiery eyes and a handlebar moustache. Some creative groups take it a step further by using technology into their creations, turning their Narakasura effigies into electronic art installations. They use automated controls powered by circuits and wired systems, adding a modern touch to the tradition. In contrast to the simpler, older versions made from hay and bamboo, today’s Narakasuras feature synchronised movements of the head, arms, legs, and body, all at the push of a button. Some even release smoke and fire from their ears, mouths, and eyes, accompanied by frightening sounds, transforming the streets into a dynamic, theatrical display. The finalists are rewarded with prizes and cash, adding to the excitement as towering Narakasura effigies dominate the scene.
For others, it’s the design element—the way Narakasura’s facial features are exaggerated to give him that menacing yet oddly captivating look—that ignites their passion for fine arts. Colourists, meanwhile, are tasked with giving life to the effigies through vibrant and sometimes surreal combinations of red, black, orange, and gold.
Today, the influence of the Narakasura tradition can be seen in various fields of art across Goa. Many artists who started by painting these effigies have gone on to become muralists and painters, while others have entered the world of sculpture and design. The tradition of creating Narakasura effigies has also evolved, adding modern techniques and materials, but at its heart remains the same—an annual opportunity for Goan artists to showcase their creativity and pass down their knowledge to the next generation.
Importantly, this tradition has given rise to a wide spectrum of expertise. Some artisans specialise in the structural framework, ensuring that the towering effigies remain stable. Others are responsible for the finer details, such as the facial expressions and detailed ornamentation. Some experiment with mechanical elements, creating effigies that move or light up during the processions.
The Narakasura offers the thrill of creating something grand, grotesque, and ephemeral, it teaches patience, attention to detail, and reverence for the craft. According to a local legend, nearly 80% of Goa’s professional sculptors and painters started their journey through this cultural tradition. The festivals offer an opportunity for creativity and a platform for mentorship and skill development. Older artists take younger ones under their wing, passing on techniques and insights that have been honed over generations.
This is almost the singular foundation upon which much of Goa’s creative community is built. For countless artists, these traditions offer a first glimpse into the world of art. And as each generation passes these traditions down, the legacy of creativity continues to grow, ensuring that Goa remains a vibrant hub of artistic talent. For the children who grow up with these festivals, the flames of Narakasura will forever be part of their artistic journey.