Goa’s 'Perni Jagor' tradition is an ancient dance of masks

AN ANCIENT ART

Perni Jagor is an ancient folk tradition of dance-drama in Goa. It was predominantly associated with a few temples during their annual fairs.

KEEPERS OF AN AGE-OLD ART

It has been performed within the temple premises for generations mainly by the Perni community.

A TRAIL THROUGH VILLAGES

From Canacona to Pernem, the Perni community was actively involved in its performance.

ART IN EVERY MASK

This dance-drama was presented using beautifully crafted wooden masks.

RHYTHMS OF RITUALS

Several folk musical instruments were played during Perni Jagor, with strict adherence to age-old rituals.

WOMEN ON STAGE

The role of women was performed by female folk artists from the Perni community.

DIVINE DANCE

It showcased different scenes from Indian mythology through mask-based dance-drama.

HOLDING ON TO HERITAGE

Though this traditional form was once widespread across villages, places like Molcorne, Poinguinim, and Vaghurme have made efforts to preserve its legacy through occasional performances.

MUSEUM OF MEMORIES

In Vaghurme (which is in Goa's Ponda taluka), several wooden masks, once used in Perni Jagor, are still preserved at Vaghurmekar’s Ganesh Sadan.

RITUALS OF ASHADH

In the past, these masks, kept inside a cane box, were ritually worshipped on the thirteenth day of the first fortnight of the Ashadh month in Vaghurme.

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