PANJIM: The much-awaited and one of the biggest festival of Hindus – the spectacular Holi and Shigmotsav is set to kick off from March 24 and continue till April 8.
The traditional festival rituals begin with Holika Dahan on March 24, and the festival of colours on March 25, followed by statewide Shimgo float parades i.e. traditional dances and processions that feature both contemporary and traditional art forms. Shigmo festivities also feature dances such as like Ghode-Modni (horse dance), Fugdi, and Rommatamel.
Meanwhile, Holi is celebrated on the last full moon day of the last Hindu calendar month, marking the beginning of spring. The night before Holi is called Holika Dahan whereby people gather around a lit bonfire, symbolising the victory of good over evil and removal of the old and the arrival of the new. Various rituals are performed around the fire such as singing and dancing. The next morning is celebrated as Holi or the festival of colours where people smear and drench each other with colours.
Thereafter people from Goa witness the meticulously crafted floats showcasing the state’s culture. It begins with village songs and homage, followed by bathing and dressing the village deity.
During Shigmo, locals dress in colourful attire and participate in street parades, wielding large coloured flags, artificial swords, and other festive items. Some dress as traditional maharajas or soldiers. Street musicians play traditional instruments like dhol, tasha, and flute, adding to the lively atmosphere of one of the most colourful festival.
