The Dhondgan take a ritual bath in the sacred pond near the Shri Devi Kelbai of Mulgao in Bicholim taluka during the famous zatra which began on Monday.
BICHOLIM
The famous Zatra of Shri Devi Kelbai of Mulgao in Bicholim taluka began on Monday in a deeply devotional atmosphere and will conclude with the Kaulotsav ceremony on March 27.
Popularly known across Goa as the ‘Pethechi Zatra’, this festival is celebrated every year with great faith and enthusiasm.
The festivities begin from Gudi Padwa, during which the Dhondgan (devotees observing ritual vows) observe strict purity for nine days. The main fair is celebrated on Chaitra Shuddha Panchami.
On the day of the Zatra (Monday), after performing various religious rituals in the morning, the Dhondgan take a ritual bath in the sacred pond near the temple in the afternoon.
Dressed in traditional attire—white vest, sacred cloth, shawl, garland of aboli flowers, and holding a cane stick—they proceed for the dev darshan.
At night, the symbolic form of the goddess, called the ‘Peth’, is decorated with aboli flowers. In the temple hall, rhythmic drum beats accompany the energetic dance of the Dhondgan, with chants of “Har Har” filling the air. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this event.
At midnight, in the presence of respected villagers from Mulgao and Mayem village, a ritual prayer (Garhane) is performed. After the divine trance occurs, the symbolic Peth of the goddess departs for Mayem village. The procession travels via Vhalshi, Borde, and Bicholim, reaching Mayem at dawn. The goddess stays in Mayem for three days and returns to Mulgao after the start of Mayem’s Malyachi Zatra.
Upon returning to Mulgao, the Kaulotsav begins, which will take place on March 27 this year. As per tradition, the Kaul is first given at designated places to members of the Raut, Gad, Parab, and Saraf families. Then, with great celebration, the Peth is taken to the temple where Kaul is given to all devotees and dignitaries present. Finally, after the Dhondgan receive the Kaul, the symbolic goddess rests.
After receiving the Kaul, the Dhondgan again bathe in the sacred pond, completing their vow. This is followed by five nights of theatrical performances.
This traditional and devotional festival is being celebrated with great enthusiasm, and the temple committee along with the villagers of Mulgao have appealed to devotees to attend in large numbers and seek the blessings of the goddess.
