Team Goemkarponn
CUELIM:The Feast of Epiphany, popularly known as the Three Kings Feast, was celebrated with great religious devotion at Our Lady of Remedios Chapel in Cuelim. The celebration began on Monday morning, featuring three children portraying the Three Kings and arriving on horseback in a grand tradition that dates back over 500 years.
This year, the main feast Mass witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with a large number of devotees offering prayers and seeking the blessings of Our Lady of Remedios. The Novena and feast Masses were attended with equal fervor.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were makeshift stalls offering Goan delicacies, traditional sweets, toys, clothes, and other items, which drew large crowds throughout the day.
Aaron Fernandes from Cuelim, Ethan Gracias from Cansaulim, and Cayden Correa from Arossim had the honor of representing the Three Kings this year. The young kings arrived at the chapel on horseback amidst musical processions, coming from three different routes and converging near the chapel, symbolizing the journey of the Magi guided by the star of Bethlehem.
Speaking to the media, Fr. Ave Maria Afonso shared the significance of the tradition:
“As part of the feast, three young children from the villages of Cansaulim, Arossim, and Cuelim represent the Three Kings and arrive on horseback. They meet at a designated point near the chapel and attend the Masses, where they renew their faith and commit to following Jesus Christ.”
Police Inspector Sherif Jacques, a devotee, highlighted the legacy of the tradition:
“This feast has been celebrated for over 500 years. In our village, being chosen as one of the kings is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The selection process is rigorous, with names often written years in advance. It is a privilege deeply cherished by our families. My father, I, and my son have all had the honor of being chosen as kings, making it a proud tradition for three generations.”
He also elaborated on the preparations:
“The horses for the feast are brought from Kolhapur before the event. The three kings offer symbolic gifts to the church, keeping alive rituals that have remained unchanged for centuries. The feast marks the 15th day of Christmas, concluding the season’s celebrations for many.”
The Three Kings Feast at Cuelim continues to be a cherished and vibrant celebration, blending faith, tradition, and community spirit in its observance.
