Adieus King Momo!

Goa bids farewell to King Momo's mock reign during the pre-Lenten 3-day festivities that ended today only to return again next year around the same time. Dates are not normally attached to these celebrations, because this festival of sorts follows the annual Liturgical calendar. This otherwise Susegad state bursts into life and color during this period and goes back to its relaxed lifestyle after these 3 days. Carnival ends not only in Goa but in every country or place where it is followed, which are normally countries or cities with a sizeable Catholic population. Goa is one of the main locations in India that celebrate Carnival in style with pomp, grandeur, and color. Rio de Janeiro tops this list and is rated one of the most popular destinations to visit during this time of the year.

The Carnival which was earlier unique to Goa in India has now opened up its curtains to the neighboring state of Maharashtra. Mumbai which is a city in Maharashtra has also been witnessing some celebrations according to sources. The Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over four centuries introduced us to this rather unusual festival. People dress up or masquerade during these celebrations. King Momo, the mythical king of Carnival ushers in his 3-day mock rule, riding along in a grand colourful float perched at his rightful place, atop a decorated, music-driven float waving to the crowds. 'Viva Carnival' are the words out of every mouth. The float parade this year, as always moved to the different cities in Goa like Panjim, Margao, etc. drawing huge crowds to the streets. The non-stop activities feature huge parades, lining the streets during the early part of the evening and ending each day with all-night events like shows, dances, and balls attracting both residents and tourists alike.

This year as well, even with COVID-19 on the loose, we had so many floats that submitted their entry into the parade with different themes mostly showcasing the fun side of our tiny state. The enthusiasm with which little groups of villages across Goa has been evident and overwhelming, to say the least. Carefully crafted floats along with the fun elements just made this a spectacle for anyone viewing the parade. There were themes like political and environmental issues. Then some showed off the traditional side portraying rural Goa with a modern twist of vibrant colors and troupes dancing their way through the streets alongside their floats. Other themes included social awareness issues like saying 'No' to child labour and drugs. Other well-thought-out floats were designed to make the public aware of keeping the older traditions, professions, and businesses alive. Some of those were my favourite.

Shrove Tuesday also known as 'Pancake Day' is a day preceding Ash Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent. Shrove Tuesday is celebrated in many countries by preparing and consuming pancakes. It is also called Mardi Gras a French term for Fat Tuesday, referring to the practice of the last night of eating richer, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season, which begins the next day. The word shrove is a form of the English word shrive, which means to obtain absolution for one's sins by way of confession and penance. On this day, Goa traditionally hosts the Red & Black dance which, as is obvious from the name has a strict dress code to follow to gain entry. In the years gone by, this dance continued till dawn and the faithful would attend the Ash Wednesday service soon after. So it was apparent from their attire where the crowd was before attending the Ash Wednesday morning service.

Ash Wednesday is the day all festivities close and the Lenten period of the Liturgical Church calendar commences. Easter follows 6 weeks after this period. This is a time when we are constantly reminded that these days are meant for fasting, penance, and abstinence. Every parish hosts retreats and Friday - Stations of the Cross uniting the whole Catholic family and awaits the Paschal Triduum or Holy Triduum also called Easter Triduum, which is three days that begins with the liturgy on the evening of Maundy Thursday, reaches its high point in the Easter Vigil and closes with evening prayer on Easter Sunday.

The Carnival days remind me of a time when we were young and were warned that participating in the floats was strictly forbidden. Today, all that seemed to have changed. Everyone participates in their way regardless of what culture or religion they follow. That is the beauty of this state and is pretty obvious to anyone visiting. This festival brings out the spirit of people and an acceptance of a way of life that Goa has truly come to cherish. And no, it is certainly no disrespect or insincerity to their own religion, it is more towards living a life they enjoy, showing off their fun side, and yet keeping in mind their priorities and their true nature.

Viva Carnival to everyone. Have a blessed Lenten season and a Happy Easter in approximately 40 days.