Shigmo (also called as Shimga) is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in Goa. Shigmo in Konkan and particularly in Goa is essentially the festival of the masses. It is also known all over in India as Holi - the festival of colors.

A traditional dancer at the Shigmo festival Photo Credit: fn-goaShigmo is celebrated in Goa as it is all over India, though under different names and in different ways, in different parts of the country.

In the North it is Holi, in Bengal and Assam it is known as Dolayatra; in the South it is named Kamadahan or Kamana Habba and in Maharashtra it is called Shimga or Holi. Its origin has been traced by different Puranas to different legends.

In recent years, the state government has been offering its support for public Shigmo parades, made up of traditional folk and street-dancers and elaborately-built floats depicting scenes from regional mythology and religious scenes.

Meanwhile, Shigmo festivals also continue in diverse rural parts of Goa, spanning over a fortnight, with different days earmarked for celebrations in diverse areas. This festival is celebrated around March each year. 

It is linked to the Hindu Lunar calendar, and comes not far from the Carnival festival. Dhakto Shigmo begins some five days before the full-moon day of the Indian calendar's month of Phalguna and ends on the full-moon day.

The Vodlo Shigmo is mostly celebrated and commences with the Holi Poornima (full-moon day of the month of Phalguna) and continues for five days.

Go see other Hindu festivals in Goa or learn about Christian festivals in Goa