Marvel at the unique Ganesh Chaturthi 'dekhava's' at Ranechem Zuvem, in Goa

UNIQUE TO GOA

One of Goa's smallest islands opens its doors for people to walk in and experience a different kind of Ganesh Chaturthi celebration.

DEKHAVA IN ZUVEM

Ranechem Zuvem, in Rivora, is home to around 26 houses, and most of them have an artistic display of festive scenes, called dekhava.

DEKHAVA OR CHITRA

People put up beautiful tableaux, or chitras, in their homes, and these depict scenes from the Hindu religion or stories associated with Lord Ganesh.

SOUND & LIGHT EFFECTS

These dekhavas are accompanied by lights and sound, making them even more fascinating and realistic.

JUST ASK!

Chitras can be found in nearly all of the ancestral houses on the island. All you need to do is greet the occupants and ask, "Dekhava asa?" (Do you have a dekhava?), and they will welcome you into their homes.

RANECHEM ZUVEM

The residents of this island have been making dekhavas and welcoming the public into their homes for decades. This year, the dekhavas were on view for 5 days.

THIS YEAR'S THEMES

This year, the dekhavas were based on themes ranging from Bodegeshwar to varkaris and more.

NEXT: Water and worship at 'Gauri Puja' celebrations in Arpora