Shigmotsav Margao : Live April 3, 2011

It is one of the most colorful festivals in Goa, Shigmo is celebrated by the Hindu majority with joyous festivities and elaborate parades. On the eve of Shigmo, usually observed in the month of March, a fiesta of color and rich cultural heritage unfolds across the length and breadth of Goa. Also known as Shigmotsav, the festival spans over a fortnight, with different days earmarked for celebrations in diverse areas.

The continuous beats of the dhols certainly dashed up some crazy excitement as the crowds and performers alike were seen going into a frenzy as 45 'Chitraraths', 8 'Romtamells' and 21 folk dance troupes participated in the Margao Shigmo parade on Sunday. Shigmo is often called the Goa's version of Holi.

A celebrant who shares in a noisy party of all age groups, tourists and a large number of children, including myself lined up the route of the parade from Holy Spirit Church square till the MMC square. The presentation depicted mythological and traditional theme based floats, folklore in fancy dress, dances and other facets of Goa's culture. The cultural festival of the masses was organised by the Margao Shigmotsav Samiti headed by the chief minister Digambar Kamat and two famous Marathi actors Makarand Anaspure and Amruta Khanvilkar graced the event.

Colourfully dressed participants marched with wooden poles and umbrellas in eye-catching attire to the rhythm of the beating drums. The long processions had participants in various kinds of headgear, vibrant costumes, masks and jewellery. The traditional musical instruments added a steady momentum to the celebrations.The participants were from villages from Ponda, Mardol, Sanguem, Sarvodem. Moving on to the 'Romtamell', creating history in Margao each of the 8 groups had a minimum number of 100 members. The first three were all women group and Margao group persuaded the MMC chief Sushila Naik and the CM's wife Asha Kamat to dance with them. The last troupe was even bigger and more impressive than previous years as it had a palanquin ('palki') and images of Hindu deities like Hanuman. April 03, 2011 - Near Margao Municipal area I have captured these snaps of beautiful Margao Shigmostav ceremony. I know all Goans may like it. All Goans who are residing apart from Goa can join "Shigmostav Goa" on FaceBook.