The village of Balli Muth, located in the South Goa, holds an important ritual called Shidiyo as part of the traditional festival of Shigmo. This ritual, which takes place in the month of Falgun (February-March) on the 6th day after Holi at 7am, is meant to symbolize penance and constitute rich culture of Goa.

How Shidiyo Festival in Goa is celebrated?

In the centre of the ground, a wooden pole measuring about 20 feet tall is erected, with a horizontal pole (locally known as Laat) of approximately 30 feet securely affixed to it. This pole is perfectly balanced and capable of supporting a man at one end. The man who has taken a vow or has a particular purpose to fulfill is then tied face down to the pole. A group of people hold a rope at the other end to ensure its proper balance. The pole is then rotated five times, with odd-numbered rotations in a clockwise direction and even-numbered ones in an anti-clockwise direction.

After the rotations, the person tied to the pole, known as the Gada, is released. Another individual is then tied to undergo the same ordeal. This process continues until all the Gades have completed their turn. This ritualistic acrobatic event attracts people from all over Goa who come to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle.

Significance of Shidiyo Festival in Goa- A rich culture of Goa

The individual who is tied to the rotating pole in the Shidiyo ritual is known as a Gada. Gada is regarded with great reverence by those who witness the event. Some people even bow before the Gada as a sign of respect.

Men who have taken a religious vow to participate in the ritual are tied to the rotating Shidiyo or pole. This is seen as a part of their obligation to the local deity. This act of penance and devotion is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the Konkan region, and is considered a sacred and significant practice. The Gada symbolizes their commitment to their faith and the fulfilment of their vows.

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