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Showing posts from April, 2025

Lakshmi Puja and Goa’s Diwali Delicacies

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 After the dramatic Narkasur festivities, Goans welcome the goddess of wealth with the serene and spiritual Lakshmi Puja. Homes are adorned with diyas, rangoli, and marigold garlands, creating a divine ambiance. Families gather to perform rituals, seeking prosperity for the coming year.  No Goan festival is complete without its unique flavors—Diwali brings the delightful ‘fov’ (beaten rice dishes), prepared in sweet and savory variations. From the rich coconut-infused “godshe” to the spicy “bataat fov,” every bite is a taste of tradition. These customs, blending Hindu rituals with Goa’s coastal charm, make Diwali an unforgettable celebration.

The Myth of Narkasur – A Goan Tradition

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 Diwali in Goa begins with the grand celebration of Narkasur Chaturdashi, a night filled with fiery effigies and triumphant joy. According to legend, the demon king Narkasur terrorized the heavens until Lord Krishna vanquished him, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Goans bring this story to life by crafting massive, colorful effigies of Narkasur, which are paraded through the streets before being set ablaze at dawn. The energy is electric—youth groups compete to build the most fearsome effigy, while the air echoes with music, cheers, and the crackle of fireworks, making this an unmissable spectacle.