In a delightful fusion of tradition and modernity, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant has joined the popular #Ghibli trend on social media, sharing his vibrant Shigmo photos. This move has not only showcased his fun side but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Goa.
For those unfamiliar, Shigmo is a colorful spring festival celebrated in Goa, typically in March. It’s a 14-day extravaganza filled with music, dance, and elaborate processions ¹. The festival is a beautiful representation of Goan culture and traditions.
By participating in the #Ghibli trend, Dr. Sawant has demonstrated his willingness to engage with the younger generation and showcase Goa’s unique cultural identity. The #Ghibli trend, inspired by the iconic Studio Ghibli anime films, encourages users to share photos or artwork that evoke a sense of wonder and magic.
Dr. Sawant’s Shigmo photos, now part of the #Ghibli trend, are a testament to the festival’s vibrant spirit and Goa’s rich cultural diversity. As the Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Sawant’s participation in this trend is a wonderful way to promote Goan culture and traditions, both nationally and internationally.
Panaji, 12 March 2025: Goa’s most awaited spring festival, Shigmo, is set to bring the streets alive with a spectacular display of culture, tradition, and celebration. As the festival unfolds from March 15 to March 29, 2025, various towns across the state will witness processions of vibrant floats, traditional folk dances, and immersive performances that showcase Goa’s rich heritage.
The festivities will commence in Ponda on March 15, followed by Margao on March 16, Quepem on March 17, and Curchorem on March 18. On March 19, the celebrations will reach Shiroda, continuing to Calangute and Bicholim on March 20, Vasco on March 21, and Panaji on March 22. The streets of Mapusa and Sanguem will come alive on March 23, while Canacona and Cuncolim will host grand parades on March 24. The vibrant processions will then move to Pernem on March 25, Dharbandora on March 26, Valpoi on March 27, Sanquelim on March 28, and finally conclude in Mandrem on March 29.
With each passing day, different locations will host grand parades, offering visitors a chance to experience the essence of Goan festivities in a unique way. From the lively beats of the traditional musical instrument like dhol, tashe to the mesmerizing performances of folk artists in traditional attire, every moment of Shigmo is a spectacle to behold.
Tourism Minister of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Shigmo is a time when Goa’s cultural essence comes alive through folk performances, music, and stunning float parades. It is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in authentic Goan traditions while exploring the beauty of our state. We encourage travellers to be part of this unique celebration and discover the many facets of Goa beyond its beaches.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik said,”Shigmo is not just a festival; it is a reflection of Goa’s vibrant traditions and community spirit. Every year, it brings together artists, performers, and visitors to celebrate our rich heritage. We welcome everyone to experience this grand spectacle and witness Goa in its most colourful and joyous form.”
Goa invites travellers from across the globe to witness the grandeur of Shigmo 2025, a spectacular festival that showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage. With the joyous energy of Shigmo filling the air, visitors can also take this opportunity to explore Goa’s scenic landscapes, heritage sites, and delectable cuisine. Whether it’s your first time in Goa or a return to familiar shores, whether you are a culture enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this festive season promises a blend of tradition and celebration that stays with you long after the festivities end.
As the Carnival festivities come to a close, Goa is gearing up for another vibrant celebration – Shigmotsav 2025. This 14-day extravaganza, beginning on March 15 and culminating on March 29, 2025, is a testament to Goa’s rich cultural heritage.
Shigmotsav, also known as Shigmo, is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated in the month of Phalgun (February-March). The festival commemorates the homecoming of brave soldiers who fought against invaders at the end of Dusshera. The valiant soldiers were welcomed with folk dances, mythological reenactments, and grand celebrations.
The Shigmotsav festivities commence with Holi, spanning 14 days from the 9th moon day to the full moon day. The festival begins with the invocation of the deity by singing the ‘naman,’ followed by the bathing and dressing of the deity in saffron ceremonial robes. The fifth day is marked by ‘Rang Panchami,’ which resembles Holi, with celebrations involving ‘gulal’ (red powder).
Vibrant Parades and Processions
The highlight of Shigmotsav is the elaborate parades and processions featuring colorful floats, traditional dances, and music. The floats showcase traditional dances like ‘rommatamel,’ ‘fugadi,’ and ‘ghodemodini’ (horse dance). Participants dress in vibrant outfits, carrying massive flags, artificial swords, and dressed as ‘maharajas’ and soldiers.
Shigmotsav is a testament to Goa’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the state’s indigenous traditions, communities, and vibrant culture. Despite the Portuguese influence, Shigmotsav has maintained its distinct identity, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of Shigmotsav 2025. With its rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, music, and elaborate parades, this 14-day celebration is an experience you won’t want to miss. So, mark your calendars, and get set to experience the exuberance of Shigmotsav 2025!
Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, is a significant festival in the Hindu calendar that marks the arrival of spring. This vibrant and colorful festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the Magha month, which usually falls in late January or early February.
Basant Panchami is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, arts, and culture. The festival celebrates the goddess’s birthday and is considered an auspicious day for learning, creativity, and self-improvement.
During Basant Panchami, people worship Goddess Saraswati and offer prayers to seek her blessings. They also wear yellow clothes, which symbolize wisdom, knowledge, and happiness. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, with people participating in cultural events, music concerts, and art exhibitions.
In today’s fast-paced world, Basant Panchami serves as a reminder of the importance of knowledge, creativity, and self-improvement. The festival encourages us to pursue our passions, develop new skills, and cultivate a love for learning.
How to Celebrate Basant Panchami
Here are some ways to celebrate Basant Panchami:
Worship Goddess Saraswati and offer prayers to seek her blessings.
Wear yellow clothes to symbolize wisdom, knowledge, and happiness.
Participate in cultural events, music concerts, and art exhibitions.
Pursue a new hobby or skill to cultivate a love for learning.
Spend time with family and friends, and enjoy traditional foods and sweets.
Basant Panchami is a joyous and vibrant festival that celebrates the arrival of spring and the goddess of knowledge. By worshiping Goddess Saraswati, pursuing new skills, and cultivating a love for learning, we can make the most of this auspicious day.
We wish you a Happy Basant Panchami 2025! May Goddess Saraswati bless you with knowledge, wisdom, and creativity.
