Shigmo is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in Goa. It is a spring festival that takes place in the months of March or April, depending on the Hindu calendar. The festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season. The festival is celebrated by the Konkani Hindu community in Goa and is an important cultural event that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of the state. The word “Shigmo” is a Konkani term derived from the Prakrit word “Suggimaho” and the Sanskrit word “Sugrishmaka.” It is also known as Shishirotsava. The Shigmo festival is celebrated to welcome the spring season and to seek blessings from the gods and goddesses for a good harvest and prosperity.
The Shigmo festival in Goa is a colourful and vibrant event that is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by the people of the state. The festival is celebrated for a period of 15 days and is marked by various cultural and religious activities. The first day of the Shigmo festival is known as “Phugadi” which marks the beginning of the festival. On this day, people visit the temples to offer prayers and seek blessings from the gods and goddesses. The main attraction of the festival is the street procession which is held on the second day of the festival. People dressed in traditional attire, carrying colourful umbrellas and flags, dance and sing to the beats of the dhol and tasha. The procession moves through the streets of the city and is a sight to behold.
The next few days of the festival are marked by various cultural and religious activities like musical concerts, dance performances, and sports competitions. People participate in these events and showcase their talents and skills. The festival also includes a tradition of house visits where people visit their friends and relatives to offer them sweets and exchange greetings.
There are several tales about the beginnings of Shigmo. According to legend, Holika, the aunt of Pralhad, convinced her brother, King Hiranyakashapu, to torment his son Pralhad in an attempt to stop him from reciting the name of the Lord. This sparked a revolt, and Holika was pursued until she threw herself into a fire.
There are several tales about the beginnings of Shigmo. According to legend, Holika, the aunt of Pralhad, convinced her brother, King Hiranyakashapu, to torment his son Pralhad in an attempt to stop him from reciting the name of the Lord. This sparked a revolt, and Holika was pursued until she threw herself into a fire.
The Goan Shigmo festival is not just a religious event, but it is also a time for socializing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Goa. People from all walks of life come together to participate in the festival and enjoy the various cultural and religious activities. The festival also provides a platform for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents and skills. People prepare special dishes and sweets for the festival and share them with their friends and relatives. The festival is a time for families to come together and celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of the spring season.