About Shigmotsav or Shigmo in Goa
A spectacular Shigmo parade is annually held in the Panjim city. This parade is also held at Vasco, Margao, Mapusa and Ponda. Shigmo is celebrated by the Hindu majority with joyous festivities and elaborate parades. On the eve of Shigmo, usually observed in the month of March, a fiesta of color and rich cultural heritage unfolds across the length and breadth of Goa. Many small communities and groups of people come together and prepare colorful tableaux. Majorily the labor class and the rural population and the other is the Vodlo Shigma or big Shigmo celebrated jointly by all the classes. Some tableaux also depict important happenings depicted in the holy epics. It is basically a time to enjoy to the hilt and indulge in true festive spirit of Goa. Shigmo include the singing of the ritualistic choral songs and dances that are performed amidst the village gathering. The dance is accompanied by two types of songs, the Naman and the Jot. From 11th to 15th moon day, they gather at the village temples, with their multi-coloured attire, flags, torans, and column-like red spotted "Dwajas". It is followed by burning a little grass placed at their feet. In the spirit of plenty that marks the harvesting season when the barns are full, the occasion is made memorable with a number of wonderful dances.They beat their drums and play the flutes to add music to the whole colorful ambience.