As the month of Phalgun arrives, Goa eagerly awaits the grand celebration of Shigmotsav! People enthusiastically anticipate this vibrant festival, also known as Shigmo, which coincides with Holi. Excitement fills the air as discussions begin about the dates and locations of the Shigmo parades and float processions in different regions.
With Holi just four days away this year, the schedule for the highly anticipated Shigmo processions has already been announced. This lively festival, which spans around fifteen days, will commence on March 15. The names of the locations and dates for these grand Shigmo parades are as follows.
Shigmotsav Festival Dates and Locations:
- March 15 – Ponda
- March 16 – Margao
- March 17 – Quepem
- March 18 –Curchorem
- March 19 – Shiroda
- March 20 – Calangute & Bicholim
- March 21 – Vasco
- March 22 – Panaji
- March 23 – Mapusa & Sanguem
- March 24 –Cuncolim
- March 25 – Pernem & Canacona
- March 26 – Dharbandora
- March 27 – Valpoi
- March 28 – Sankhali
- March 29 – Mandrem
The Excitement of Shigmotsav Begins Even Before Holi:
For enthusiastic youngsters, the anticipation of Shigmo begins well before the actual Holi celebrations. Various Romtamel groups set out from temples, seeking the blessings of local deities before the festival.
Ponda, also known as Antruz Mahal, is considered the heart of this grand celebration. In the days leading up to Holi, vibrant Romtamel groups from surrounding villages gather at the Mahalasa Temple, dressed in colorful attire, chanting “Ossay Ossay” in unison.
The term Romtamel literally means traveling from one village to another. These disciplined groups, clad in traditional uniforms, march rhythmically while singing folk songs, chanting energetically, and performing synchronized footwork. The entire procession moves forward to the powerful beats of dhols, tasha drums, and other traditional instruments, creating a mesmerizing rhythmic spectacle.
The Grandeur of Shigmo Festival:
The Shigmo procession is a vibrant spectacle featuring not just the energetic Romtamel groups but also various traditional Goan folk dances. Performers, dressed in traditional attire, showcase dances such as Fugdi, Dhangar dance, Goff, Morula, and Ghode Modni, accompanied by folk songs that add to the festive spirit.
A major highlight of the procession is the grand mythological floats, which captivate onlookers with their intricate designs and storytelling. People dressed in creative costumes also participate, adding to the festive charm. Since the festival includes state-level competitions for Romtamel performances, folk dances, float displays, and fancy dress, numerous groups enthusiastically take part, making the celebration even more spectacular.
Thousands of people gather to witness this magnificent event, including both locals and tourists from India and abroad, who flock to various locations to experience this breathtaking cultural extravaganza.
Witness the Celebration of Joy :
If you wish to experience Goa’s incredible Shigmo Festival, plan your trip now! From March 15 to March 29, you can witness this grand celebration at various locations across the state. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this joyous spectacle!
