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Devotees Walk on Fire at Shirgao Jatra
19 Apr
Summary
- Special devotees, 'dhonds', perform annual fire-walking ritual.
- The 'homkund' ritual involves walking barefoot on hot coals.
- The jatra includes a 'Kaulotsav' festival and a temple return.
The vibrant Shirgao jatra commences on Tuesday, highlighted by the sacred 'homkund' ritual performed by the 'dhonds', devoted followers of Shree Devi Lairai. These devotees, undertaking a fast since Friday, travel from Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to participate in this annual ceremony.
Central to the festival is the 'homkund', where 'dhonds' dance around a consecrated fire before walking barefoot across a bed of glowing coal, chanting 'Har Har Mahadev'. Following last year's stampede, special meetings ensured 'dhonds' were well-briefed on their roles and safety protocols.
After the 'homkund', the jatra continues for four days with the 'Kaulotsav', a period where a sacred kalash representing the goddess visits every home in the village. The festivities culminate on the fifth day when the goddess ceremoniously returns to the temple.
