Venita Gomes
Devotees walked over hot embers at the Homkund festival held on the night of March 11, 2023, in Vithalapur, Sanquelim.
This is a unique tradition which takes place in the village during the Hindu festival of Shigmo.
During the festivities, a pile of wood is prepared at the venue as per the custom, and it is later lit up. Once it burns completely and is reduced to ashes, people from all walks of life run across it.
Many devotees partake of this ritual, which is a grand celebration in Sanquelim.
Interestingly, only men are allowed to participate in this ritual, while women are not permitted.
As part of the Homkund celebrations, you find devotees participating in khels and musical events.