Record effigies and festive fervour mark the start of Festival of Lights across State
PANAJI
Cities and towns in Goa initially launched into a fiery spectacle for the traditional Narkasur Dahan celebrations but as Sunday wore out the weather played truant as predicted by the weatherman and a steady drizzle put a spoke in otherwise visually arresting Diwali eve festivities.
The expected climax of burning of Narkasur effigies — towering, grotesque representations of the mythical demon king — which drew crowds of spectators were truncated due to the damp weather.
The event, rooted in Hindu mythology, commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory over the tyrannical Narkasur, symbolising the defeat of evil.
The rain notwithstanding, Goans persisted with the celebration bringing this legend to life with fervour even as organisers at various street corners took the precaution of covering their sound systems and expensive DK console equipment with tarpaulin sheets.
Local artisans spend weeks crafting elaborate effigies, often reaching heights of 20 feet or more, adorned with vibrant colours, lights, and pyrotechnics.
These effigies are set ablaze at midnight, accompanied by music, dance, and cheers from the crowd.
This year’s celebrations saw a record number of effigies across Panaji and surrounding towns each equipped with sound arrangements on which played blaring music.
Cultural performances and competitions for the most artistic Narkasur preceded the effigy burning at many places.
The atmosphere was electric though, with families, tourists, and performers some using rainwear and umbrellas for protection from the rain, joining in the revelry.
As the embers of Narkasur Dahan cool, Goans will turn their attention to Diwali, the Festival of Lights, which officially begins on Monday.
Homes are being scrubbed clean and adorned with rangoli designs, oil lamps, marigold garlands and akash divo.
Temples are preparing for Lakshmi Puja, the ritual worship of the goddess of wealth, which will take place on October 21 evening.
The puja will also be performed in homes, shops and business establishments on Monday.
Diwali here is a blend of tradition and community spirit while in the rest of India it is celebrated with fireworks and lights.
Goans emphasise storytelling, family gatherings, and spiritual reflection. Many households will host pujas, followed by feasts featuring local delicacies like neureos, chaklis and a variety of preparations of beaten rice (fow).
