Siolim: Choosing to stay away from the more commercialised versions of Sao Joao celebrations, a group of 60-odd villagers gathered around a small bonfire in a field in the interiors of Siolim, dancing to the beats of the ghumot (traditional percussion instrument) and singing a host of folk songs associated with the festival.
As is the custom, a sturdy villager swam and pushed his way through swampland to garland a cross around 200 metres away. A small prayer session was also held, led by the parish priest.
However, closer to the Church of St Anthony at Siolim, traditions gave way to a more modern setup. There was a boat competition, which saw at least five cultural groups sail in with their painstakingly bedecked vessels, each hoping they would win the hefty prizes on offer: Rs 25,000 for the first place, Rs 20,000 for the second and Rs 15,000 for the third. A prize of Rs 5,000 was also up for grabs for a participant sporting the best costume, while spot prizes comprised small items made of gold, Times of India reported.
“Ethnic celebrations are getting lost due to the demands of commercialisation. We have decided to keep these celebrations true to what we have always celebrated and that’s why we prefer shielding it from the glare,” a village elder said as he described how Sao Joao was celebrated in the interiors of Siolim.
Jumping in wells had a certain symbolic order, with the first jumper diving in like an arrow, and the others following in a pre-determined pattern. Women, including a few grandmothers, joined for an impromptu song and dance to add to the revelry.
Festivities within the small community are a perfect testament to the true spirit and meaning of the feast. A young girl from the village said, “We have always lived as one family in this village, but this festival brings us closer.”