Though
Goa is widely known for its Christian festivities, it is also popular for a
number of Hindu festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Dussehra, Raksha
Bandhan and Ram Navami among others. Hindus form the majority of population
in Goa and the aforementioned festivals can be experienced by travellers in
all its show and splendour. Participating in these festivals could mean a
lot to a discerning traveller. The celebrations, rituals, prayers and above
all the people reflect the spiritual face of an ever-colourful Goa and of
course the whole of India.
Some of the most widely celebrated festivals in Goa include:
Ganesh Chaturthi
It's the time when most of the Goans return to their ancestral villages and
homes. Celebrated during August-September, the Ganesh Chaturthi is held to
mark the birthday of Lord Ganesh, the elephant god. The pomp and show on the
occasion is surely something to experience. Owing to Goa's close proximity
to the state of Maharashtra, the festival takes on a much lively scene.
People from all over the state take part and celebrate the festival with
their relatives, family and friends.
Diwali
Meaning the 'festival of lights', Diwali is celebrated all across the
country with great zeal and fervour. Even in Goa, the festival offers a lot
of festive charm for travellers to soak up. People from all over the state,
regardless of their caste and creed, join in the festivities and exchange
greetings and blessings. The festival recollects the memories of Lord Rama's
victory over demon king Ravana. Throughout the state, giant effigies of
Narakasur (as Ravana is famously known) are burnt to mark the victory of
good over evil.
Dussehra
The festival of Dusshra is another important religious festival in Goa,
preceding the festival of Diwali. In the northern parts of India, Dussehra
celebrations are held separately. However, in the state of Goa, both
Dussehra and Diwali are held simultaneously as the images of Narakasur are
burnt all over.
Holi
Falling around the month of March or April, Holi is a celebration of
colours. Smearing one another with bright colours and drenching in colurful
water creates a magnificent panorama, with both the young and the young at
heart participating. The fervour and gaiety of people is not limited to
their home or house, but even the streets come alive with numerous colours.
Raksha Bandhan
Locally known as Rakhi, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is one of the most
emotional festivals of the Hindus. It strengthens the brother-sister bond as
girls tie colourful bands round the wrists of their brothers. In return, the
brother offers gifts and promises to protect here against any harm or evil
influences that might arise at any point of time. The sister feels a great
sense of security in her life. The festival falls in the month of August.
Ram Navami
The festival of Ram Navami occurs in March-April. It marks the birth
anniversary of Lord Rama who is considered to be the seventh incarnation of
Lord Vishnu. It begins on the first day of the Hindu New Year and continues
for nine long days. Fairs are held in different parts of the state.
Particularly in South Goa, the festival is celebrated on a grand scale.
