Dussehra... the Goan way By Rohit Phalgaonkar
The talukas of Goa are treasure troves of cultural and heritage. They interest archaeologists, anthropologists, heritage lovers and historians. The festivals too have their own identity and significance in Goa. Be it the "Tavshaache Fest of Santan" or the "Shigmo" of Sarvan Bicholim each festival is a milestone on Goa's soil.
The Dussehra of Goa is commonly known as "Dasro" in Konkani. It is celebrated on the 10th day following the Nine Nights festival. The "Dashmi" or the "Dasam" in Konkani is marked on the Hindu calendar for the celebrations of this festival. It is a grand event in every Goan temple. There is an ambience of purity and divinity everywhere in the air as the temples are illuminated and the deities are adorned and embellished to look celestial.
In many temples, the day begins with religious rites early in the morning. In the evening, a procession of the deity seated in a "Paalkhi" is taken out. The "Simolanghan" or crossing of the borders of the temple precincts is also carried out. Various symbolic representations of the deities are taken out in this procession.
The "Taranga", "Satreo", etc. are decorated marvelously. The Dussehra of the Shri Kamakshi temple in Shiroda is usually celebrated the next day after the Dussehra celebrations of other places. On the previous day, a procession called the "Ghodo" is taken out. "Ghodo" connotes a horse in Konkani. A golden image of Shri Raayeshwar is mounted on a silver horse. The procession is accompanied by traditional music.
The Dussehra of the Pernem Taluka too is quiet well known all over Goa as "Pednecho Dasro".
The musical instruments like the huge Dhols, Taaso, cymbals and Shehnai have formed an integral part of this festival. No Navratri is complete without these traditional Goan instruments. The pulsating and lively music of these instruments is very much warlike.
The real Goan culture is well reflected during the Dasro. But due to creeping in of the western influence, these festivals are given a modern look. Dhotis are no longer seen worn by men who carry the Paalkhi or the Taranga. Western percussions are replacing the traditional ones on a large scale. We cannot allow the vibrant Goan flavour of these festivals to disappear.
After all, Goa has its own unique cultural identity which we have to maintain. (ENDS)
Goa Plus - October 19, 2007
