Vishant Vaze
Sankhali: The traditional Shigmo festival in Surla concluded with fervour, with the village’s long-standing tradition of communal harmony as Hindu devotees paid homage at the Peer Saheb Dargah.
The five-day festival, which culminated on Monday night, saw a grand procession of Siddheshwar Dev’s romtamel visiting the dargah, a practice that has been followed for generations. The moment, marked by the rhythmic beats of percussion instruments and devotional folk songs, symbolised Hindu-Muslim unity.
“The tradition of visiting the Peer Saheb Dargah during Shigmo has been passed down through generations and will continue in the future,” said Suresh Bayekar.
Environmentalist and historian Rajendra Kerkar said that this practice dates back centuries, demonstrating the spirit of communal harmony in the hinterland village of Surla, Bicholim. “For years, different religious communities have lived in harmony
here, and this tradition continues to bind them together,” he said.
The dargah, situated behind the Surla-Tar Mosque, is believed to belong to Pir Saheb, a saint who arrived in Goa before the Portuguese era. According to local sources, the Pir and his followers coexisted peacefully with the Hindu community, fostering goodwill that remains strong today.
On the final day of Shigmo, after offering prayers to Lord Siddheshwar, villagers proceed to the dargah following an ancient trade route. The Muslim community, primarily the Muzawar sect, gathers at the mosque to welcome the Hindu cultural troupes with coconuts and bananas, while Hindu devotees reciprocate by offering sugar and incense sticks to the Pir. A maulvi then prays for the well-being and prosperity of the village.
The celebration also features the traditional folk dance ‘Taalgadi,’ performed by Hindu devotees in honour of the Pir. Both communities exchange greetings, reinforcing the enduring spirit of brotherhood.
The festival’s vibrant cultural expressions were seen across Surla, with folk artists performing in Deulwada, Ghadiwada, Baye Khodgine, and other hamlets. Youths and senior citizens alike participated in the age-old traditions, adding to the festive atmosphere.
“The rich cultural heritage of our village must be preserved, and the youth should come forward to learn these traditional folk arts,” said Bhanudas Sonaik.
“It is crucial for future generations to uphold this practice,” said another local Babulo Natekar.
With the conclusion of Shigmo, preparations for the Hindu New Year have now begun in Surla, ensuring that the spirit of unity and tradition continues to thrive.
