Vineeta Rao
Auckland, March 18, 2025
Shigmotsav is a Goan Festival that marks the end of Winter and the beginning of Spring.
As a young child, one of my fondest memories was that of me sitting atop my father’s broad shoulders, eating roasted chickpeas and ‘kadio-bodio,’ a local delicacy comprising ginger and jaggery coated sticks made out of chickpea flour, speckled with sesame seeds, watching the Shigmo parade as it made its way through the city.
The chaos of the crowds, underlined by the persistent pulsating beat of the dhol, the smell of goodies available only during the ‘Zatra,’ and the crowd pushing and pulling at us as we stood by to watch the dancers and performers weave in and out in mesmerising moves make it an indelible memory, even as I sit at my laptop an entire hemisphere away.
While Goa may be known primarily for Carnival celebrations, Shigmotsav or Shigmo is another of Goa’s vibrant and culturally rich Festivals. A Konkani derivative, the word Shigmotsav, means a celebration of colours, and is our version of a harvest Festival, marking the onset of spring.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Shigmotsav is primarily celebrated by the Hindu community in Goa.
It is akin to Holi, the Festival of Colours, celebrated in other parts of India.
The Festival’s origins can be traced back to ancient times when it was a celebration of the return of warriors. Over the years, it has evolved into a grand Festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Goa.
Shigmotsav is celebrated in two main forms: Dhakto Shigmo (Small Shigmo) and Vhadlo Shigmo (Big Shigmo). Farmers and rural communities primarily celebrate Dhakto Shigmo to thank local deities for the harvests.
Celebrations entail Temple rituals and local festivities within the village.
Vhadlo Shigmo, on the other hand, is a grander celebration that includes elaborate parades, folk performances, and vibrant street processions in cities and towns across Goa
The Festival spans 14 days, starting five days before the Full Moon Day of the Lunar Month of Phalguna, typically in March or April, and ending on the first day of the Full Moon. This year, the Festival began on March 15 and will conclude on March 29, with major street parades and public celebrations.
Celebrations and Activities
The celebrations of Shigmotsav are marked by a series of events that bring the entire State to life. The Festival begins with prayers and religious rituals at local temples. Villagers carry their local deity in a palanquin procession, accompanied by music and chants, setting the tone for the festivities.
One of the main attractions of Shigmotsav is the grand parades held in popular towns like Panaji, Margao, Vasco, Calangute, and Mapusa. These parades feature floats depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, traditional Goan folk dances, and performances by local artists. The streets are bathed in Gulal (colour powder), and the air is filled with the rhythmic beats of Dhol-Tasha (traditional drums), creating a memorable spectacle. Local plays are performed and theatre companies are in high demand.
Costumes and Traditions
One of the highlights of Shigmotsav is the vibrant and colourful costumes worn by the participants. Locals dress in traditional attire, adding to the festive atmosphere. The costumes are often adorned with intricate designs and bright colours, reflecting the joyous spirit of the Festival. Often, participants include pressing local topics as part of the pageantry.
The Festival also sees the participation of various communities, each adding their unique touch to the celebrations.
Shigmotsav is more than just a Festival; it is a celebration of Goa’s rich cultural heritage and the joyous spirit of its people that could not be repressed even during Portuguese colonial rule. The vibrant parades, traditional dances, colourful costumes, and delicious food make it a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Goan culture.
Vineeta Rao is an Indian Newslink Reporter based in Auckland.
