Team Goemkarponn
CORTALIM: Cortalim witnessed a colourful celebration of Goa’s traditional Shigmo festival on March 8 as the constituency hosted its first-ever Shigmotsav parade, drawing enthusiastic participation from cultural groups and large crowds of residents who lined the streets to witness the festive spectacle.
The grand parade, held at Bandantulo Khuris along NH-66 in Cortalim from 3.30 pm onwards, featured vibrant chitrarath tableaux, energetic romtamel performances and creative fancy dress presentations, showcasing the rich cultural traditions associated with the Shigmo festival. The procession was flagged off by Cortalim MLA Anton Vas in the presence of Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar, ZP member Merciana Mendes, Cortalim Sarpanch Ujwala Naik and other dignitaries.
The parade marked a significant cultural milestone for the constituency, with several local groups and artists participating in the celebrations. Traditional drums, folk dances and colourful floats moved along the route as residents gathered in large numbers to cheer the performers and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Speaking on the occasion, Anton Vas said the Shigmotsav was organised following a strong demand from residents who wished to witness the traditional parade within their own constituency instead of travelling to other towns.
Vas said that many people from Cortalim usually travel to places like Vasco and Margao to watch Shigmo parades, and there had been a long-standing demand to organise such a celebration locally. Responding to this public demand, the first edition of the Cortalim Shigmotsav was organised so that families and children could enjoy the cultural festivities closer to home.
He said the initiative also aimed at encouraging local cultural groups and artists to showcase their talent and keep Goa’s traditional folk culture alive.
The event was organised by the Cortalim Kala Kendra in collaboration with the Cortalim Nagrik Shigmotsav Samiti.
Organisers had announced attractive cash prizes for the participating groups, including competitions for romtamel performances, chitrarath tableaux and fancy dress presentations, which received a good response from participants.
Residents welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that the Shigmotsav parade would become a regular annual cultural event in Cortalim in the coming years.
