Samrudhdi Kerkar
Shigmo is a vibrant platform for Goan rural communities to showcase their talents, skills, and traditions. Among its many festivities, Durigotsav stands out.
In the last village of Sanguem, along the Dharbandora border, this ritualistic celebration unfolds with great fervour. At its heart stands a towering Bombay Ceiba trunk, planted as a challenge. Youths, brimming with determination, attempt to scale its smooth surface, their acrobatic prowess on full display in pursuit of a coveted prize.
Despite the impact of mining, Kalay village still boasts lush green forests, forming a natural canopy around the festival grounds. With deep respect for tradition and nature, villagers ensure this age-old celebration continues, felling only a few trees to uphold the ritual while maintaining a balance between culture and conservation.
In Kalay, a form of Lord Mahadev is revered as Kalnath, with a mango trunk worshipped as Holi. At the Paikadev shrine, where the Durig festival takes place, a trunk of savar (Bombax Ceiba) is honoured as durig, while a smaller kanal trunk is also venerated as Holi.
More than just a ritual, durig is an exhilarating test of climbing skills. The event begins with the felling of a tall Savar tree, pulled down using wild creepers. Once brought to the village, its bark is removed, leaving a smooth trunk, which is then placed in a pit beside the shrine. As villagers lift it together, the air fills with excitement, reflecting their strength and unity.
After a reverent puja, the real spectacle begins. A tribal man, showcasing both skill and tradition, takes the lead. Using a rope-like wild creeper as his only aid, he deftly ascends the durig. Once at the top, he pours a bucket of water down its surface, making it even more slippery.
With the rhythm of folk instruments in the air, anticipation builds. One by one, young men step forward, eyes gleaming with determination. They leap, grasp, and struggle against the slick trunk, often slipping back down amid laughter and cheers. After several attempts, one finally gains a stronghold, inching upward with sheer grit.
Atop the durig, a tribal man holds the Vaalo—pieces of cloth symbolising victory. The challenge isn’t just reaching the top but claiming this prize.
Below, villagers watch intently. Every slip and near success keeps them on edge until, at last, a climber emerges victorious, Vaalo in hand. As he descends, the crowd erupts in celebration, hailing him as a hero.
The festival concludes with a sacred offering. Copra from freshly broken coconuts and fruit are distributed as prasad.
Even today, Durigotsav isn’t just a game; it’s a tradition that keeps communities connected.
