The natural beauty of Goa is unmatchable, and it is popular around the globe for its stunning beaches. It is also called the Rome of the East and is one of the most visited places in India. Apart from the romantic ambiance of Goa, the small state is also popular for its old-age cultures and unique traditions. Additionally, Goa owns many ancient mosques, temples, and churches, reflecting the divinity of this small Indian state.
So, if you have explored its serene beaches and have visited its dashing places and wildlife sanctuaries of Goa in your last tours, why not explore the vibrant culture of Goa this time? If your answer is a yes, why not delve into the cultural beauty of Goa without any further delay?
Culture and Traditions of Goa
The culture of Goa is a blend of Portuguese and Indian culture. Besides that, the rulers of different dynasties, including the Mughals, Marathas, and many others who ruled Goa for several years, also had a great impact on the culture of Goa. Therefore, saying that the culture of Goa has been slowly but consistently influenced and enriched by different other cultures would not be wrong.
Goa state is full of joyful spirits, and the people of Goa have a lively lifestyle. The people of Goa are known as Goans, and most are fishermen. They practice “siesta," wherein Goans rest in the afternoon (1 pm to 4 pm) and shut down their shops and businesses.
The local community is very cooperative and friendly. The Goans live happily and come together despite their religious differences. You can witness this harmony during their different celebrations and worship.
Language of Goa:
Goa is home to different ethnic communities, and each speaks their language. But, Marathi and Konkani are the two commonly spoken languages of Goa. But the locals can also speak Portuguese, English, and Hindi. Goa has a tropical climate, so the locals prefer cotton clothes.
Traditional Dresses of Goa:
The Hindu females love to wear sarees called “Nav-vari," while Catholic women prefer gowns. Pano Bhaju, Valkal, and Kashti are the other famous costumes in Goa. The men of Goa prefer to wear the shirts and trousers. The bright-colored shirts with bamboo hats and half-pants represent the traditional dresses of Goa.
Dances of Goa
The people of Goa love the performing arts and offer you a mix of Indian and Western dances. The music and famous dances are performed at cheerful events and religious festivals in Goa. The famous dances of Goa include Kunbi, Fugdi, and Dhalo.
- Goff Tolgadi And Shigmo: These are a collection of different dances popular in Goa and performed during spring. It is believed that the spring season brings the crops. Goff is the weaving of braids with different tints of colors. The people of Canacona Taluka (a province of Goa) usually perform this dance form.
The Shigmo is a traditional dance form performed on dhol, cymbal, or tasha beats. People used to wear colorful dresses while performing these dances. The passionate actors show various performances on the roads of Goa, and it is a great way to learn about the history of this state.
- Dekhni Dance: The people wear the ghumat while performing this dance. It is performed on a song with Western roots, while the dance form originated in India. It is one of the bets-known traditional dances of Goa, and only females of the community perform this dance.
Festivals of Goa
The land is popular for its carnivals, Indo-Latin festivals, and fiesta. You must visit Goa if you want to enjoy the Western-style festivals. Not only that, different Hindu festivals are also celebrated. The most common festivals of Goa are Easter, Christmas, Diwali, Goa carnival, GaneshChaturthi, and Feast of St. Francis Xavier.
The religious festivals and various other dance and music festivals are also celebrated here. Let's learn about the different festivals celebrated in Goa:
- Shantadurga: The festival is related to Goddess Shantadurga, and it is famous for its five-day fair and other cultural activities.
- MahaShivratri: It is a famous Hindu religious festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this festival, the devoted awake all night to pay rituals to the Lord Shiva.
- Goa Carnival: It is a three-day carnival which you can enjoy in Panjim. During this event, you can enjoy the live band performances.
- Shigmo: It is a regional festival celebrated for 15 days, and various colorful activities and cultural performances can be enjoyed during this festival.
- International Film Festival: it is similar to the Canne Film Festival. During this festival, different actors, directors, and other people participate.
- Christmas: It is celebrated with the Christmas tree and Santa Claus, and feasts are also a part of these celebrations.
- Feast of St. Francis Xavier: it is a nine-day festival which celebrates the life of St. Francis Xavier
- Easter: It is a Christian festival celebrated with passion in Goa.
Cuisine of Goa
Goa is popular around the globe for its stunning beaches and delicious food. The cuisine of Goa is also a blend of Portuguese, Konkani, and Nawabi food. As it is situated on the west coast of the Arabian Sea, seafood is immensely popular here and a must part of every food.
The famous mouthwatering seafood you can taste here includes prawns, fish, mussels, crabs, feni, oysters, and many others. Chourisso and Vindaloo (spicy pork) are also famous in some places. Fish (King Fish) and rice are the most favorite foods of the Goans.
People prepare the food in coconut oil. The non-vegetarian food, including the fish and prawns, are in high demand here. Bebinca is a popular sweet dish of Goa that is layered with eggs, milk, sugar, and meat. Khakhate is the soup of Goa which locals prepare during the festivals. The soup or stew is prepared from five exotic vegetables, local spices, and coconut.
Conclusion:
Goa is a former Portuguese colony colonized by them about 450 years ago. Therefore, you find the culture of Goa distinctively different from other parts of the nation. Also, despite rapid urbanization, the locals have preserved their culture, traditions, and customs. So, go beyond the beaches and nightlife of Goa, explore its colorful culture, taste the delicious food, and enjoy the amazing dances of Goa during your next trip!
