Goa was one state where both communities lived in complete harmany and we can
go back to those days if we strive hard enough. In my home in Anjuna during
Christmas time, villagers from both communities sat on large mats spread in our
dining room making neuris and other sweets. Mandos and zotis were sung as they
went about their task and there was such a great feeling of bon homie.
We looked forward to Ganpati. It was immensely exciting to see the bright idol
benevolently sitting amidst all the fruit and sweets and of course, we the kids
were offered a large cashewnut/sugar laddoo and other sweets to take home.The
feast of our Lady of Milagris in Mapusa was always followed by another Hindu
festival (zatra) at Shirgaum and both deities were regarded as sisters by the
locals.
All this bonded both communities together and taught us to respect the other
religions.
Bernice Pereira
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