Rohan Fernandes
Shigmo, the annual festival of Goa's Hindu community, began on March 4, 2023, in Canacona, South Goa.
The festivities started after breaking a coconut at the temple of the village deity, and prayers by a folk troupe.
The folk troupes were welcomed by each family with a thali containing rice, coconut and sweets.
Different folk dances, such as Tonyamel & Talgadi, were performed as part of the celebrations.
Villagers were seen wearing bright and colourful clothes.
The members of the folk troupe perform folk dances every night, and avoid alcohol and non-veg food.
Children excitedly joined in the folk dances and songs.
A variety of musical instruments, including ghumot, dhol etc, form an essential part of the Shigmo performances.