PANAJI
The Sri Devki Krishna Temple saw the final day of the popular Chikhal Kalo festival in Marcel on Monday, with hundreds of devotees from all over Goa joining in to play in the mud (chikhal) at the temple complex in Marcel.
The joyful celebration took place on Dwadashi, the last day of the festival, which includes singing, playing traditional games and immersing in the mud to symbolise Lord Krishna’s bond with Mother Earth. The temple grounds were full of energy as people played traditional mud games, celebrated Krishna’s leela (divine play) and performed the dahi handi ritual.
Calling the celebration part of local tradition, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte stressed the need to take this festival to the world. “Chikhal Kalo brings people together to celebrate, to play and to reconnect with the soil. We must preserve these traditions and pass it on to the future generations,” said the minister.
He added, “Earlier, Goa was known mainly for its beaches—today, we are proudly promoting ‘Goa Beyond Beaches.’ With government support for festivals like these, we are also creating economic opportunities for our local communities. Over the past three years, Chikhal Kalo has received an overwhelming response. I believe everyone should be part of this celebration and help spread the message of unity.”
A photography and reel-making competition was also held during the festival. The three days brought together spirituality, music, culture and community, with Abhang and Kirtan recitals, Bhajan performances and the mud ritual (Chikhal Kalo).
