Representational file picture.
| Photo Credit: RAJENDRA GAWANKAR
People of Goa burnt large effigies of demon ‘Narakasura’ within the early hours of November 12 to start Diwali celebration, whereas Chief Minister Pramod Sawant prolonged greetings to the individuals and urged them to purchase native merchandise to have a good time the pageant.
Goa has an extended held custom of creating the effigies of Narakasura and burning them on Deepavali, marking the victory of fine over evil.
The ‘Narakasur Vadh’ (killing of the demon) competitions had been held throughout the coastal State to have a good time the pageant.
“It symbolises the victory of good over evil. An artiste dressed as Lord Krishna performs Narakasura Vadh in the early morning hours. This is how we celebrate Diwali,” mentioned Panaji-based historian Sanjeev Sardesai.
The custom of performing ‘Narakasura Vadh’ existed even throughout the Portuguese rule within the State however remained subdued because of restrictions on spiritual freedom, he mentioned.
After liberation from the Portuguese rule, this custom has been adopted by the younger technology of Goa, he added.
People throughout the State put up conventional ‘akashkandils’ [lanterns] on the entrance of their homes to mark Diwali.
CM Sawant prolonged greetings on the pageant and wished that the “lights of Diwali may illuminate people’s mind and heart with the spirit of oneness in the State.” In his Deepavali message, the CM mentioned , “The festival of Diwali inspires people to conquer evils, by building a society in which peace and communal harmony would prevail.” “The illumination on the day reminds us in regards to the excessive beliefs of Lord Rama, who returned to Ayodhya on today, after 14 years of banishment and victory over Lanka after defeating Ravana,” he mentioned.
“Removing the darkness of ignorance and leading towards the light of knowledge is the inspiration behind celebrating Diwali,” he mentioned.
Mr. Sawant mentioned Goa is progressing quickly with growth being taken throughout the size and breadth of the State.
“People of Goa have marched in the direction of good governance. Let us stress more to buy local products to celebrate the festival, so as to support the home-grown manufacturers in the true spirit of Swayampurna Goa, giving importance to ‘Vocal for Local’ in the state,” Mr. Sawant mentioned.
Source: www.thehindu.com
