Goa Velha's time-honoured procession of 31 saints

PENITENTIAL PROCESSION

Santachem Pursanv or the 'procession of saints' is a unique tradition that takes place in the village of Goa Velha, in North Goa, during the Lenten season.

SAINTS LEAD...

The procession took place at the St Andrew the Apostle Church in Goa Velha on Monday, March 18, 2024.

...AND LIFT US

The penitential procession in the village features a unique sight, where life-size statues of 31 saints are carried on charols (tableaux).

IN FAITH, WE COME...

Devotees bow their heads and join their hands in reverence when a charol passes by, as a gesture of seeking forgiveness for their sins and seeking the blessings of the saints.

...AND IN THEM WE TRUST

Out of the 31 saints, some of them include St Anthony, St Miguel and St Roque. People patiently await their chance to seek the intercession of their respective saint.

DOWN THE AGES

The tradition of Santachem Pursanv has its roots in the 17th century and is still observed with great devotion to this day.

GOA'S HONOUR

Besides Rome, Goa is the only place where this unique Lenten procession takes place.

NEXT: Goa's Ribandar is calling, but make sure to bring your camera