Goa's Lairai Devi zatra, a celebration of faith and community

FAITH CALLS

The annual Lairai Devi zatra at Shirgaon, Bicholim, commenced on Sunday with enthusiasm and as the morning progressed various rituals were witnessed throughout the day. 

HAIL LAIRAI

Chants of Lairai Mata Ki Jai filled the air as the Dhonds (disciples of the goddess) and devotees made their way to Shirgaon since early Sunday morning for darshan.

COLOUR CODED

Wearing colourful dhotis, the Dhonds made their way to Shirgaon since early Sunday morning. They also wore Mogra garlands and carried ribbon-decorated staffs with them.

FLOWER & FAITH

Wearing Mogra garlands is a way of expressing devotion to Devi Lairai. Also, the belief that Lairai favours Mogra flowers adds a sentimental touch to the devotees' offerings. The flowers were available in abundance in the vicinity of the temple today.

DID YOU KNOW?

According to folklore and traditions, the Milagres Saibinn in Mapusa is believed to be the sister of Goddess Lairai, and is called Mirabai.

COMMUNAL BONDING

The presence of Catholics paying respect to Goddess Lairai showcases religious tolerance and respect for each other's traditions in Goa.

HOLY DIP

The holy dip in the Dhondhachi Tali adds another layer of ritualistic importance to the festival, especially for the Dhond community. In Hinduism, a holy dip symbolises spiritual cleansing.

EMBERS AWAIT

Hundreds of Dhonds will light fire to the wood offered to the goddess for the agnidivya at the 'Homkundh' in the wee hours of May 13 in a ritual that is witnessed by thousands.

SWEETNESS GALORE

No festivities in Goa are complete without buying some khaje, ladoos and kadio bodios. These traditional Goan sweets play a part in the celebratory atmosphere, alongside the religious rituals.

NEXT: At this village in Goa, explore traces of the ancient Neolithic Age