On January 6, every year, Goa's Catholic community celebrates the feast of the Three Kings, also known as the the feast of the Epiphany. In Goa, the feast is far more than a mere religious occasion; it is a celebration of culture and tradition.
The feast, celebrated 12 days after Christmas, commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem.
When the three kings (known as 'Magi') visited the infant Jesus, they brought Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
In South Goa, this scene is re-enacted by young 'kings' on horseback who ride to the Our Lady of Remedios Chapel, in Cuelim, which is situated on a hillock.
In South Goa, this scene is re-enacted by young 'kings' on horseback who ride up the hill as they head to the Our Lady of Remedios Chapel, in Cuelim, where the feast is celebrated with traditional pomp and revellery.
JOIN THE PROCESSION
The three 'kings' are the highlight of this feast. Their arrival on horseback on the feast day sets the tone for the celebration of the high mass at 10.30 am. The young boys, who play this coveted role, are selected a year in advance from the villages of Cuelim, Cansaulim and Arossim, all of which are in South Goa.
The festive procession on horseback begins from the kings' ancestral homes and heads towards the church. The horses, which are brought from neighbouring states, are assigned to the families based on a system of lots.
If you are in Goa and want to experience the grand festivities, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this feast to know firsthand what this tradition means to the villagers and the whole of Goa. Join in the procession and make your way up the hillock.
The young boys, who play this role, are selected a year in advance from the villages Cuelim, Cansaulim and Arossim, all in South Goa.
CROWN OF FAITH
Some of the festive traditions are unique and have a deep significance.
Once the kings, on horseback, arrive at the designated spot, a special resting place is set up for them. Their crowns are then removed and momentarily placed on the heads of devotees present, symbolising the transfer of blessings.
“We believe that the crowns are very special. Even though the kings are human, we have complete faith that by placing the crowns on our heads, all our worries will be blessed and lifted,” says Maria Costa, a villager from Verna.
FAITH AND CAUTION
There is another unique tradition wherein devotees, especially children, walk under the parked horses to seek the blessings of the Almighty.
“This tradition has been passed down through the years and one has to be cautious as the temperament of the animals is hard to understand,” informs a local from Cansaulim.
"To prevent the horses from getting irritated or kicking, precaution must be taken to ensure their comfort and maintain their calmness. However, it is faith that makes a difference in the lives of locals and devotees,” he adds.
FAITH IN EVERY SPOONFUL
After a long walk to the foothill of the church, the kings are allowed to take a breather for a few minutes. During this time, they are served hot kanji (rice gruel) and the locals too are allowed to partake in the moment.
"This is a very old tradition which involves a lot of faith. Many believe that consuming the rice gruel can heal them of ailments," says a local who visits the place to have the kanji.
ATTEND THE FEAST MASS
The feast mass celebrated at 10.30 am at the Our Lady of Remedios Chapel, Cuelim, is a very cherished and spiritual occasion. The service is marked by special readings and blessings that elevate the moments.
“As it is one of the most important feasts for Goa's Catholics, this mass has a deep connection for many locals in the area. We attend the feast every year,” says Rosalina Fernades, from Cansaulim.
As it is one of the most important feasts for Goa's Catholics, this mass has a deep connection for many locals in the area.Rosalina Fernades, from Cansaulim
VISIT THE FAIR
No feast in Goa is complete without making a trip to the fair. From buying traditional sweets like kaddio-boddio and laddoos to trinkets and earthenware, the fair in the vicinity of the church has something for everyone.
So, be sure to include all these very local experiences in your visit to fully immerse yourself in the unique celebrations of the Three Kings Feast in Goa.