Introduction
Shirgao, a small village in Goa, is deeply rooted in customs, traditions, and deep respect for the land. This village comes to life with the celebration of the Shri Larai Jatra which is celebrated in early May. This year the festival is held on 7th May 2024. The Shri Larai Jatra also known as the Famous Shirgaonchi Jatra is the most awaited festival in the whole of Goa. This annual festival pays tribute to the goddess Larai, who is one of the seven sisters of the god in Goa. The Jatra draws followers from all over Goa. The festival is a manifestation of deep culture, religious devotion, and customs.
A Mythic Journey of devotion and tradition
The tale of Larai is connected to the myths of Goans. Shri Larai is highly respected by her followers. She is believed to be the reincarnation of the goddess Parvati. According to Goan folklore, the goddess Larai is believed to be the sister of several deities. The devotees assemble early in the morning to begin with the Larai Jatra celebration. Which commences with worshipping the goddess in the old rituals and prayers, this continues till dawn. When the air is filled with chants and sounds of drums. The worshipers wear traditional attire and come along with a present to offer the goddess.
Sacred Flames
The fire walking ceremony is the main part of the festival, the fire path is a display of commitment and faith that the devotees have in the goddess. As it gets darker, a fire is lit which goes on for days till the main Jatra date. A sacred ceremony is performed over fire, the people who perform the ceremony are called Dhonds. And they prepare themselves by following strict guidelines of discipline and hygiene. They are supposed to follow a strict vegetarian diet till the main date of the Jatra. And have to take a bath after every meal they consume in the nearby lake of the temple.
A Test of Faith and Devotion
The dhonds carry woven cane sticks known as beth on their shoulder and walk around the lit fire wearing dhotis and towels. As the clock strikes midnight, the deity is carried in a procession to the nearby temple to the pyre. A small flame is thrown into the pyre, and as the embers burn the dhonds begin to run across the coals bare feet. It is a testament to their devotion and ability to believe that the goddess protects them From the burns and they do not feel any pain. But the people watching feel a strong heat coming from the fire.
The fire walking habit is deeply rooted in the folklore of Shirgao and is the significant triumph of good over evil. The Shirgaonchi Jatra is a much-loved festival in Goa and remains significant since it holds a rich tradition and culture of Goa.
