Konsachem Fest, a vibrant and age-old harvest festival, brings together parishioners, relatives, and guests across Goa every year on August 5th. Rooted in a tradition that spans over 300 years, this festival is a significant event, particularly for the villagers of Raia, who celebrate it with pomp and gaiety.
A Ceremonial Procession
The community commences the festivities with a ceremonial procession, carrying the statue of the Saviour of The World to the paddy fields in front of the church. Parishioners, lined up in anticipation, witness this annual spectacle with reverence and joy. This year, Rev. Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas graced the procession, descending into the fields with parish priests to bless and ceremonially cut the first sheaves of paddy using a silver sickle. According to local folklore, the Pope sent this sickle from Rome, adding historical significance to the ceremony.
The Significance of Konsachem Fest
Konsachem Fest marks the cutting of the first sheaves of rice harvest, known as ‘Konsa’. This act symbolises the fruition of the farmers’ labour and is a moment of gratitude and celebration. The villagers eagerly collect the blessed sheaves. As it is believed to bring blessings for a fruitful harvest in the future. The tradition finds its roots in the biblical story of Abel. Who offered his best sheaves of corn to God as described in the book of Genesis.
Raia holds the distinction of being the first village to initiate this tradition, and the Church of Our Lady of Snows, built by the Gaunkars of Raia and Camurlim in 1699, has been the epicentre of these celebrations. Thousands gather for the ceremony and mass, exchanging greetings and fostering communal harmony. As Suresh Satarkar aptly put it, “This feast unites friends. Let the blessings of the first corn be the blessings for everyone.”
Festive Activities and Community Spirit
The feast day is a lively affair with ‘kermes’ and food stalls set up by parish youngsters. These stalls offer a variety of Goan specialties, including ‘sanas’ and sweets, alongside entertaining games. Domnic Quadros fondly remembers a past tradition where people packed blessed corn in envelopes and sent it to friends across India.
Celebrations in Saloi, Salvador do Mundo
The celebrations in Saloi, Salvador do Mundo, were equally vibrant. Reverend Fr. John Fernandes led a colorful procession to the paddy fields, where the community blessed the newly grown crops. Fr. Vaz used a unique ‘Golden Sickle’ to cut the first sheaves of paddy. Which they then offered to the saint in a solemn ceremony.
Fr. Leo Fernandes, Secretary at Pastoral Secretariat, officiated the High Mass. Urging the youth to follow Jesus’ teachings of selflessness, care, and love. His message emphasised the importance of stewardship of nature and communal unity. Resonating with the festival’s spirit of togetherness and celebration.
A Day of Joy and Unity
Students from Chubby Cheeks School enhanced the festival atmosphere by performing a musical invocation, adding a touch of cultural vibrancy. Parishioners, relatives, and villagers from near and far gathered to seek blessings, exchange pleasantries, and celebrate the bounty of the harvest. Many carried home the blessed sheaves of paddy and indulged in sweets and ‘Chonne,’ savouring the festive spirit.
Konsachem Fest, with its rich traditions, communal harmony, and joyful celebrations, is a testament to Goa’s cultural heritage. It is a day that unites people, celebrates nature’s bounty, and fosters a sense of community, making it a truly special occasion in the Goan calendar.
