Chikal Kalo Festival Celebrated with Traditional Fervour at Marcel’s Devki Krishna Temple.
Ponda: The annual Chikal Kalo (Mud Bath) Festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm on Sunday at the Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel, attracting thousands of devotees, locals and visitors. Recognised as a State Festival, the centuries-old tradition remains an integral part of Goa’s rich cultural heritage. The three-day celebrations began with a cultural performance by renowned singer Mahesh Kale, followed by Ashadhi Ekadashi rituals, culminating in the vibrant Chikal Kalo festivities. Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte joined devotees in the sacred mud bath, symbolising the deep-rooted bond between mankind and nature. Addressing the gathering, he said the Goa government would continue promoting traditional festivals to attract more tourists to the state’s hinterland and showcase Goa’s unique cultural traditions.
Before entering the mud field, devotees and Mahajans performed religious rituals, including the ceremonial application of vermilion tilak and anointing their bodies with coconut oil, signifying spiritual purification and preparation. The celebrations commenced with the lighting of lamps and the offering of Shreephal (coconut) to the deity, accompanied by devotional bhajans and prayers. The festival concluded with devotees joyfully participating in traditional mud games, reaffirming the enduring cultural and spiritual significance of Chikal Kalo.
Loading ...