'Sontreo' festival celebrated with pomp and umbrellas at Cuncolim village

Rohan Fernandes

The annual festival of Sontreo was celebrated at Cuncolim, in South Goa, on March 12 this year.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Nikhil Shirvant

This Hindu festival is also known as 'Gulalotsav of Shree Shantadurga' Cuncolim.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Nikhil Shirvant

The festival is called Sontreo because of the presence of twelve coloured umbrellas, placed on top of decorative poles.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Nikhil Shirvant

An important part of the festival is the procession of goddess Shantadurga from the temple, in Fatorpa village, to her original home in Cuncolim, both villages being in South Goa.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Nikhil Shirvant

Devotees danced enthusiastically to the tunes of traditional musical instruments during the procession.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo : Rasik Naik Gaonkar

Hundreds of devotees from all over the state attended the festival, especially those praying for the gift of a son, prosperity, etc.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo : Rasik Naik Gaonkar

Bright Holi (Gulal) colours are smeared on devotees and also tossed into the air during the procession.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Nikhil Shirvant

When the procession reaches Cuncolim, a special aarti is performed at the Chapel of the Martyrs.

Goa|Sontreyo Festival|Shigmotsav festival | Photo: Rasik Naik Gaonkar

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