Kalotsav begins at Shirgao
THE GOAN NETWORK
BICHOLIM
The Kalotsav of Goddess Lairai at Shirgao-Bicholim started on Thursday evening.
It is a tradition to celebrate the kalsotsav (procession of Kalash of Goddess Lairai carried out by a Mode) soon after the main event of Agnidivya (walking through embers) is over.
After agnidivya, kalash of the goddess is kept at Chavatha for rest. In the evening, the Mode runs a distance of about 500 metres without opening his eyes until he crosses Gaddu Ravlu’s place.
It is believed that Gaddu Ravlu had insulted Goddess Lairai, due to which the goddess had vowed not to see the place where the house of this person is situated.
After crossing the border, the goddess opens her eyes and starts giving Kaul (blessings in the form of flowers) to the people. Prior to Kaul, the goddess meets God Ravalnath and Goddess Sateri.
Initially, the kaul starts from Madhalawada and proceeds near the Lairai temple, Palniwada Bhatlyan, Wadachawada and lastly Deulwada. The kaul is given to each and every house member and relatives who go to seek blessings from the goddess.
On the last day, the kaul is given to all Chowgules and the goddess then enters the temple. Sunday will be the last day of the Kalotsav and as such large number of devotees are expected on Saturday and Sunday. The entire Shirgao festival comes to an end after the Kalotsav.
