In a spirited display of togetherness, the customary Sao Joao traditions were observed with devotion and excitement, reflecting the deep bond shared by the people of Ranoi in a day filled with prayer, song, laughter, and shared heritage.
PANAJI: Amidst joyful cries of ‘Viva Sao Joao!’, the community of Ranoi-Aldona came together to celebrate the much-loved Sao Joao festival, keeping alive the rich traditions handed down by their ancestors. The celebrations began with prayers at the Mae de Deus Chapel, Ranoi, invoking God’s blessings on the community. In keeping with the pastoral theme “Abide in Me”, the gathering was reminded of the need to remain rooted in Christ, strengthened by faith, unity, and fellowship.
This year’s celebration had a special moment as Godwin Dias, the son-in-law of Tome and Rafaela Alemao from Ranoi, joined in the festivities with enthusiasm and was given the traditional bath with the water drawn from the chapel well. The entire Alemao family, along with all Vaddo members, participated wholeheartedly, adding warmth and joy to the occasion. The festivities continued with the singing of traditional Mandos, Dulpods, and folk songs, filling the air with music, cheer, and merriment. Dressed in colourful kopels, the young and the elderly joined together in community fellowship, and the sharing of seasonal fruits and authentic Goan sweets.
