Glimpses of tradition at feast of Immaculate Conception in Goa
Evelyn Siqueira
RAISON D'ETRE
Every year, on December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated in a big way in Panjim church (Immaculate Conception Church), being the feast of its patroness.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
ON A SOLEMN NOTE
The parish priest of Caranzalem, Fr Pio Almeida, was the main celebrant at this year's solemn high mass.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
KEEP THE FAITH
The church was packed with devotees of all ages, dressed to the nines as they attended the high mass, which was in Konkani.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
AVE MARIA
The high mass was followed by the customary procession of the statue of Our Lady.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
FESTIVE ROBES
Members of the confraternity (confraria) were seen wearing traditional red and white lace and satin attire, called opa e mursa.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
BLUETIFUL DAY
The Baroque-styled church was tastefully draped in blue and white streamers along with rice lights on the joyous occasion.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
MUSIC TO THE EARS
No feast in Goa is complete without the upbeat sounds of a traditional brass band to usher in that festive feeling.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
CRUNCH TIME
Stalls selling the popular hot and crunchy roasted gram are an essential feature of all fairs in Goa, and Panjim too had them close to the church.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception | Panjim | Photo: Rohan Fernandes