Shigmo Festival (Shigmotsav) 2025 in Goa

Shigmo Festival, or Shigmotsav, is one of Goa's most vibrant Hindu celebrations. It blends the spirit of Holi and carnival into a grand spring festival. Held annually in March during the Phalguna month of the Saka calendar, this two-week event features spectacular float parades, bursts of color, mythological scenes, traditional music, and singing. Rooted in the Konkani culture of Goa, Shigmo is a celebration of spring and joy, offering unforgettable experiences steeped in tradition and festivity.

Traditional Celebrations

Shigmo Festival is celebrated in two forms: Dhakto Shigmo (Small Shigmo), observed by farmers and villagers with simple rituals, and Vhadlo Shigmo (Big Shigmo), marked by elaborate parades in urban areas. The 14-day festival begins with Naman, where villagers sing devotional songs and collectively honor their deities. On the first day, the village deity is ceremonially bathed and dressed in saffron robes, followed by offerings and a feast. The fifth day, Rang Panchami, is a lively celebration similar to Holi, with revelers joyfully playing with gulal (red powder) and neel (blue powder).

The festival's highlights include grand parades featuring traditional Goan folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi, colorful costumes, and flags. Elaborately decorated floats narrating scenes from Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata captivate audiences. Accompanying the processions are traditional musical instruments like Dhol Tasha, flutes, and large drums, which energize the crowd. From temple rituals and community feasts to vibrant street parades and playful gulal exchanges, Shigmo Festival beautifully fuses spirituality with cultural extravagance. The main parade, showcasing Goan life through artistic performances, is a spectacular finale to this joyful celebration.

Locations

Shigmo is celebrated in various locations in Goa, including prominent cities like Panaji, Mapusa, Vasco, and Margao. Grand parades and festivities take center stage in these cities. In rural areas, smaller, community-driven celebrations bring a more intimate charm to the festival.