MAPUSA
Just a day after a heart-wrenching stampede at the famed Shirgao zatra claimed six lives and cast a dark cloud over the usually jubilant celebrations, the village is showing remarkable resilience as it re-engages in its centuries-old traditions.
The ‘kaoula’ – a cherished ritual in which the blessings of Goddess Lairai are taken from house to house – resumed, gently stitching a community back together after the shock of tragedy.
Ritual rooted in faith
The ‘kaoula’ is a deeply symbolic ritual unique to the Shirgao zatra.
Each year, after the main procession and fire-walking ceremonies, a group of devotees, led by traditional custodians of the temple, move door¬-to-door carrying the symbolic blessings of Devi Lairai.
At each of the nearly 350 homes in the village, a short puja is performed and the ‘kaoul’ – a sacred object believed to embody the deity’s grace – is offered with prayers for prosperity, protection and peace.
“This practice has been part of our identity for generations. No matter what happens, the blessings must go to every home,” said Upendra Gaonkar, a long-time participant and respected villager.
Grief lingers ritual continues
The tragedy struck in the early hours of Saturday, when a sudden surge in the crowd during the peak moments of the fire-walking ceremony resulted in a deadly stampede.
Six people, including women and elderly devotees, lost their lives, while several others were injured. The incident left the village stunned.
But rather than letting the tragedy silence their spirit, the people of Shirgao have turned to their faith to begin the process of recovery.
“Things are gradually returning to normal. The blessings of Devi must continue. In grief, faith becomes even more important,” said Dinanath Gaonkar, President of the Devi Lairai Devasthan Committee.
“People were informed to avoid gathering in large numbers. That’s why the crowds are slightly thinner, but the devotion remains just as strong,” he added.
A night-long pilgrimage
The ‘kaoula’ procession is as intimate as it is elaborate. Groups of devotees begin their rounds at 10 in the morning and continue until late into the night – sometimes even until 3 or 4 am.
“In addition to village residents, outsiders also join the 'Kaoula' ceremony as it moves from door to door, spreading blessings," said Hari Gaonkar, another resident of the village.
Looking ahead with hope
The ‘kaoula’ ritual will continue until Tuesday, covering every household in Shirgao.
While the tragedy will remain etched in the collective memory of the village, so too will the image of neighbours joining hands and welcoming Devi’s blessings into their homes – stronger together than ever before.
“Life goes on, and so does faith,” said Upendra Gaonkar with quiet conviction.
