The picturesque village of Pilerne came alive with vibrant colours, music, and tradition as Matiechem Fest 4.0 was celebrated with great enthusiasm on Gandhi Jayanti.
Organised at St John the Baptist Church premises, the fest was a grand showcase of Goa’s soil, heritage, and community spirit under the theme ‘Fulam Follam, Matiechim Danam’.
The festivities began at 3 pm from the Sankov with a lively Pasoi (heritage walk) leading to the church, highlighting the beauty and cultural essence of the village.
Prior to the Pasoi, there was an enactment of Mahatma Gandhiji, St Francis of Assisi and the Patron Saint of the Village, St John the Baptist. After the enactment, the Trio led the Passoi to the Church Compound.
The much-awaited parade of floats commenced at 3.45 pm from the Communidade of Pilerne, with groups from various wards presenting floats based on local flowers, fruits, and agricultural life.
The celebrations in the church compound kicked off at 6 pm with an opening chorus by Cajetan Fernandes, followed by the welcome and press briefing by Parish Priest Fr Derick Xavier Fernandes.
Local talent shone through competitions such as ‘Jhelo making’ and fruit carving, while traditional and cultural performances kept the audience engaged.
The local stalls vended traditional food and handmade candles, heritage pottery, plants were also on display.
The highlights included Ghumatcho Nach by maestro Carlos Gonsalves & team; Balcaoacheo Gozali by Neville Alfonso, presented by Miguel Braganza; musical performance by Jonny B Gud with Reza; Ganesh Mahila Mandal’s folk dance (Navetim, Pilerne); comedy skits by Terryl & Group and seminarians from Niwas and Pilerne-Saligao; the Harvest Festival Dance by the Jharkhand group of Pilerne; and community games like Housie with spot prizes.
The festival was marked by unity and joy, drawing villagers and visitors alike into a celebration of heritage.
With music, laughter, and cultural pride resonating through Pilerne, Matiechem Fest 4.0 once again reaffirmed its place as a people’s festival that preserves the soil, culture, and traditions of Goa.
