As we know well that Goa is a Hindu populated state, but
it is also known for its cosmopolitan nature. Goans are famous for their
liberal views. Being located on the sea coast always facilitates the
seamless flow of external exchanges. Festivals in Goa are the living example
of this cultural process throughout the history. There are scores of Hindu
festivals, which are celebrated here with full fun and gaiety. Hindus have
their own calendar, so they don't occur on fixed dates of Gregorian
calendar. Goa was under Portuguese rule for a very long period so these
Hindu festivals in Goa have a unique Portuguese taste. Diwali, Chovoth,
Holi, Gokulashtmi, Lairai Jatra, Gudi Padwa, Nagpanchami, Raksha Bandhan are
some of the major Hindu festivals of Goa.
Hindu myths describe Goa as a land of Gods and it's not baseless. There are
hundreds of Gods and Goddesses in Goa which are worshiped with full
devotion. Being an erstwhile Portuguese colony, Goan organize many Christian
festivals. These are very popular in Goa and even tourists throughout the
world come to participate in some of these festivals. These festivals
include Feast of three kings, Christmas, Colva Fama, Margao Feast, Konsachem
Fest and Sao Jao. Fun-loving Goans have numerous other celebrations also.
These include Carnival, Shigmo, Sea Food Festival, Kesarbai Kerkar Music
Festival and Goa Heritage Festival. Your participation in these celebrations
will be a memorable experience.
