Venita Gomes
The village of Colva, in South Goa, recently celebrated the feast of Infant Jesus (Menino Jesus) at the Church of Our Lady of Merces, Colva.
The interesting aspect of this feast is that the fama, which is the first day of the novena, is more famous than the feast.
On the day of the fama, villagers prepare a lavish meal, and invite relatives and friends to enjoy the festive meal with them. Devotees stand in long queues to venerate the famed Infant Jesus (of Colva).
People make various petitions and seek the blessing of Infant Jesus.
On the feast day, a customary procession of Menino Jesus is held.
A large fair is put up near the church, and a variety of items are on sale, including clothes, decorative items and religious objects.
Colvakars celebrate this feast with great pomp and gaiety.