Team Herald
BICHOLIM: Thousands of people and devotees of Goddess Lairai Wednesday thronged Shirgao village for the zatra which would continue for the next five days.
At midnight, the Dhonds (devotees) would cross the fire pyre which is considered the main attraction of the zatra.
Lairai is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati; since the devotees strongly believe that Lairai grants their prayers, thousands of them attend the festival every year.
After taking holy bath in Devachi Tali, the new Dhonds proceeded towards the Mudder, the original place of Lairai, where various rituals are performed. Later, they visit the Lairai temple in the interior of the village. Devotees believe that Lairai Devi loves Mogra flowers and hence, mogra garlands were in great demand during the festival. A large number of shops make brisk business selling sweets on the occasion.
