Team Herald
PONDA: Artists from across the State gathered at Kranti Maidan, Ponda on Sunday demanded that the government celebrate Shigmo in more than seven places or in all the talukas.
The artists said, “The government had decided to celebrate Shigmo only at three places namely Ponda, Panjim and Mapusa. However, taking part only in three places is injustice on the artists as they are not in position to display their art.”
If everything is working fine despite COVID-19 pandemic, why is Shigmo restricted to only three places, they questioned.
Tourists are visiting Goa in large number, there are casinos operating in the State, there is rush at public places then how only Shigmo would result in the spread of COVID-19, they further questioned.
They said, “It is not affordable for the artists and troupes to participate in the Shigmo float parade only at three places as preparations with regards to floats incurs an expenditure of several lakhs of rupees. Besides, there is ‘Romtamel’ and other expenses. If artists are allowed to participate in more places only then it is possible for them to bear the cost.”
Responding to the demands of artists to celebrate Shigmo in more places, Art and Minister Govind Gaude said, “The government has thoughtfully taken a decision to celebrate Shigmo at only three places. I request the artist to understand the government’s stance and cooperate in celebration.”
Ponda MLA Ravi Naik said, “It is almost 41 years Shigmo is celebrated in Goa. It was started in 1980. To preserve Shigmo and to encourage the tradition there is need to make it affordable to bear the cost of preparing floats and ‘Romtamel’, etc. The government should increase the prize Shigmo money at three places as it is not possible to celebrate at several places.”
