Shigmo, a festival deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Goa, is a vibrant celebration of life, tradition, and spirituality. Recognizing the importance of such cultural festivities, Goa Tourism actively supports Shigmo, viewing it as an integral part of the state’s heritage. Through promoting and preserving these cherished traditions, Goa not only fosters cultural sustainability but also ensures that visitors and locals alike can experience the state’s rich diversity and vibrancy.
At the heart of Shigmo’s annual extravaganza are traditional dances that embody the spirit of Goa, showcasing the cultural mosaic of its diverse communities. These dances, each unique in style and expression, include the Goff, Dhangar dance, Ghodemodni, Samayi dance, and Morulo dance, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the state.
Goff Dance
Performed by the peasant communities in Canacona, Sanguem, and Quepem talukas during Shigmo, the Goff dance is a lively folk tradition that symbolizes the joy and contentment of a successful harvest in the month of Phalgun. During the dance, participants hold colorful cords attached to a central point known as the “mand” and move in intricate patterns to form a multicolored braid by the end of the first sequence. As the music continues, they reverse their steps to unravel the braid, restoring the cords to their original loose state. This mesmerizing performance captures the essence of communal celebration and artistic expression.
Dhangar Dance
The Dhangar Dance, also known as Dhangari Gaja Dance, is an important traditional dance performed by the Dhangar, or shepherd, community. The dance seeks blessings from the folk god “Bira Deva” and reflects the deep connection between the community and their agrarian way of life. Dancers don traditional Marathi attire, including a Kathiawari-styled white dress and a turban decorated with colorful handkerchiefs. The performance begins with slow, rhythmic footwork in sync with the beats of the “Dhol,” as dancers circle the drummers, creating a graceful and soulful spectacle.
Ghodemodni Dance
Ghodemodni, or the “horse dance,” is a captivating folk dance observed in villages such as Thane, Sattari, and Bicholim. A unique display of martial arts and equestrian skills, this dance features performers dressed as warriors, riding wooden horses. The rhythmic stomping, vibrant costumes, and warrior-like stances add a sense of drama and excitement to the performance, making it a prominent feature of Shigmo celebrations. The term “ghode” means “horse” and “modni” translates to “joyful,” encapsulating the jubilant spirit of the dance, which honors Goa’s historical heritage and rural traditions.
Samayi Dance
The Samayi dance is a beloved tradition in which dancers balance traditional metallic lamps called ‘diwli’ on their heads. The dancers, both men and women, wear these Goan handicrafts as they gracefully move to the melodies of folk instruments. The music, featuring instruments like the Ghumat, Samel, Zanj, Shehnai, and Surt, guides the dancers’ movements, filling the atmosphere with festivity. The Samayi dance is not only a display of skill and balance but also a celebration of light, tradition, and cultural artistry.
Morulo Dance
Emulating the movements of a peacock, the Morulo dance is an expressive performance characterized by agility and exuberance. Dancers in eclectic costumes portray the grace and beauty of the peacock, symbolizing joy and the celebration of life. This dance resonates throughout the community during Shigmo, capturing the spirit of togetherness and festive cheer.
Preserving Goa’s Cultural Heritage
The traditional dances of Shigmo are a testament to Goa’s enduring cultural legacy. They celebrate the state’s vibrant traditions, communal spirit, and artistic ingenuity. As custodians of this cultural heritage, it is essential to cherish and preserve these time-honored traditions, ensuring that future generations continue to revel in the splendor of Shigmo’s cultural extravaganza.
In celebrating Shigmo, Goa continues to honor its past while embracing the future, keeping alive the vibrant spirit that defines this beautiful state.
