Colva Fama 2025 is set to be celebrated on Monday, 13th October, marking a deeply cherished tradition in Goa. Colva, a picturesque village in South Goa, comes alive on this day as thousands of devotees from across Goa and beyond gather at the Church of Our Lady of Mercy to participate in the unique and heartwarming festival dedicated to the miraculous statue of Infant Jesus (Menino Jesus).
What Is Colva Fama?
Colva Fama is a special devotional event that marks the beginning of a nine-day novena leading up to the grand feast of the Menino Jesus. The word “Fama” refers to the start of the festivities, not the main feast itself. On this day, the miraculous statue of the Infant Jesus is brought down from its triple-locked vault and placed for public veneration. Devotees form long serpentine queues to kiss the statue—a gesture believed to bring blessings, protection, and good fortune.
The Significance of the Date
In 2025, Colva Fama falls on October 13th, the second Monday of October, as per tradition. Every year, this arrangement ensures a consistent and organized event while allowing time for devotees to prepare their vows and offerings.
The Origins of Colva Fama
Legend has it that Jesuit missionary Fr. Bento Ferreira found the miraculous statue of Infant Jesus in 1640 during a shipwreck journey from Mozambique. Believing it to be divine, he installed it in the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Colva, in 1648. Over time, the statue became a symbol of deep faith and countless devotees began seeking blessings.
In 1834, when the Jesuits were banned, the original statue was relocated to Rachol. However, the local community, heartbroken, created a replica in 1836 and continued their tradition. Today, the statue adorned with a gold diamond ring remains a treasured object of worship.
The Rituals of Colva Fama
Priests bless the Maddi, an areca nut pole topped with a banner depicting the Infant Jesus, and erect it outside the church. Devotees turn the atmosphere vibrant as they take the statue, dressed in regal robes and adorned with jewellery, out in a grand procession.
Priests then bathe the statue in a ceremonial ritual. Devotees collect the water used in the bath, believing it holds healing properties for various ailments. Afterward, the statue is displayed for veneration, and devotees queue up to kiss it. This is the only day the faithful can touch the statue.
Offerings, Vows, and Festive Spirit
Devotees come for various reasons:
- Some seek blessings for a healthy child or a successful marriage.
- Others express gratitude for prayers answered by placing wax offerings shaped like body parts.
- Newlyweds and childless couples visit in hope and devotion.
Devotees tie ‘bentins’ (sacred cords), touched to the statue, around their wrists or scapulars, believing they bring protection and good fortune.
A Vibrant Fair and Community Spirit
Colva Fama is not just a religious event, it’s a community celebration. The church courtyard fills with joyous masses throughout the day. A large fair springs up around the church, offering traditional Goan snacks, handicrafts, souvenirs, and seasonal foods. The spirit of the event brings together people from different creeds, making it a truly inclusive celebration of faith, tradition, and local culture.
Why Visit Colva Fama in 2025?
For travelers seeking a unique cultural experience, Colva Fama provides a glimpse of Goa beyond its beaches and nightlife.
- Experience heartfelt devotion
- Witness a living tradition
- Explore local Goan sweets like Patoli and Neureos
- Immerse in the peaceful village ambiance
Visiting during Colva Fama is an opportunity to experience Goa’s spiritual essence, local flavors, and deep-rooted traditions in their most authentic form.
