Old Goa's 'Xhepdeanchem Pursanv', a rare procession
Rohan Fernandes
UNIQUE RITUAL
Devotees took part in the Xhepdeanchem Pursanv (procession of tails), which was held at the Se Cathedral in Old Goa on Good Friday.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Procession | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
A TAIL'S TALE
The procession is named after the lengthy flowing black cloaks with pink capes worn by the canon. The Konkani word xhepdi when translated in English means tail.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Canon | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
SOLEMN MOOD
The procession takes place when the life-sized statue of Jesus is brought down from the cross and placed in a coffin. The coffin is then carried in the procession by members of the Confraria.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Se Cathedral | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
WITH REVERENCE
The choir sings motets and penitential hymns during the procession.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Choir | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
AGE-OLD PRACTICE
The tradition of using wooden clatters on Good Friday still continues.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
OTHER THAN ROME
This unique procession is seen in only two places in the world -- Rome and Old Goa.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Canon | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
HIS HOLINESS
Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao also participated in the procession.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Bishop | Photo: Rohan Fernandes
FLORAL GRACE
The coffin carrying Jesus was decorated with flowers.
Goa | xhepdechem pursanv in Old Goa | Good Friday in Goa | Jesus Christ | Photo: Rohan Fernandes