San Joao is a Catholic tradition celebrated across Goa. It includes jumping into wells, drinking alcohol, and preparing traditional sweets for newly married couples. The commercial version of San Jao is the rain dance, which is given importance in many hotels. Some churches in Goa do not encourage San Joao, while in others it is celebrated with great festivity. There have been concerns about safety issues, including accidents linked to drinking and driving and jumping into wells. Some people believe that San Joao should be celebrated in a more respectful and traditional manner, without excessive alcohol consumption or public disturbance. Efforts by the Church to discourage the commercialisation of San Joao have had limited success.
Elvis Colaco via email
