Festival in Goa

Goa, the tiniest state of India is situated in the Konkan coast. Goa is famous for its ochre beaches, exotic wildlife, architectural splendor and carnival like spirit of people.

Goan people are always in a festive mood. There is some kind of revelry going on every time somewhere.

Goa is a multi religious land and faithful of different religions live together amicably. Apart from the religious tolerance there is an active kind of involvement in each other’s religions. That is why the Christian festivals are celebrated by Hindus also and Hindu festivals celebrated by Christians also. The Christian and Hindu festivals are major events in Goa. The Muslim brotherhood is also not left out.

Apart from the Muslim, Hindu and Christian holidays the other main festivals of Goa are Shigmao festival, Bonderam festival, Feast of Three Kings, Feast of Saint Xavier and above all Goa Carnival. Shigmao festival is celebrated all through Goa in a grand manner. The festival which is known as Shigmotsav in Goa lasts almost a fortnight.

The Bonderam festival is celebrated on the Divar Island. This quiet little island is situated twelve kilometers away from Panaji. This celebration homes a unique history behind it. It is said that many years back, the villagers resented the rules that were adopted for settling disputes regarding the land issues.

The Feast of Three Kings is a very popular event in Goa. It is an annual event celebrated every January during holy Epiphany. This Christian festival is celebrated with fervor by Hindus also. The Feast of Three Kings is celebrated in the honor of the Three Kings of Magi who came with gifts for infant Jesus Christ.

Among the many colorful feasts and festivals celebrated in Goa, Goan Carnival celebrate in the mid February is one of the most awaited one. It is one of the most exciting events that pulls the attention of not just the tourists but the music loves and culture lovers from across the globe. For three days, Goa becomes truly different state where one will forget everything and will enjoy the feast of the carnival with outmost joy and happiness. The Festival commences with the taking over of streets by King Momo and streets are full of music and color.