The Feast of Our Lady of Miracles is a unique festival in North Goa, celebrated at the Church of Our Lady of Miracles. It's a special event for both Christians and Hindus. The festival honours Milagres Saibinn, linked to Hindu deities Lairai and Kelbai. It shows the strong bond between the two religions. The celebration takes place on the fourth Sunday of May, 16 days after Easter. Earlier, it was moved to avoid clashing with a solemn Christian event. This festival is a perfect example of Goa's unity, where people of all faiths join in joyfully.
The festival has a rich history and offers a mix of religious and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy traditional Goan music, dance, and delicious local food. There are also colourful processions and special church services. The festival's highlight is the blend of Christian and Hindu traditions, making it a unique experience. It's a great time for tourists to see Goa's diverse culture and heritage.
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Feast of Our Lady of Miracles | Date, Venue, & Tickets
The Feast of Our Lady of Miracles used to be celebrated on the 4th Sunday of every May, after 16 days of Easter. In 2008, this date was changed since it coincided with solemnities that restricted organising a feast on that day. Thus, the date of the Feast varies from year to year. It is organised at the Church of Our Lady of Miracles in North Goa. People of any faith can be a part of the festivities and there is no ticket required to gain entry to this festival cum fair..
History of the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles
Church Of Our Lady of Miracles is a 16th century Church built by the Portuguese rulers. The Church was initially dedicated to St. Jerome, therefore, it is also referred to as St. Jerome Church. Since the Portuguese destroyed a number of Hindu monuments to promote Christianity, it is believed that the church was built over a temple during those times. However, the structure was destroyed in a fire around the mid-1900. After the renovation, it was renamed as Church of our Lady of Miracles. Earlier, the feast used to be held on the 4th Sunday in the month of May. However, in 2008, the date was changed due to some religious reasons.
Major Attractions Of Feast Of Our Lady Of Miracles
The Feast of Our Lady of Miracles is an epitome of secular celebrations. The fair and feast has proved amazing unity between people of different faiths and religions who come together to celebrate this feast with unbridled enthusiasm and excitement. Here are the major highlights of the feast.
1. Church Masses
The masses are generally held from 5 am. However, at various places, it is held at different timelines. For instance, the English mass generally starts around 9 am whereas the high mass starts at 10 am.
2. Fair and Festivities
One of the main highlights of this annual festival of Christians is the fair which comprises various food stalls that serve local delicacies. One can see the adults and children dressed in the best outfits. And about 1,000 devotees with different religious faiths come together to commemorate this fest.
3. Religious Hymns
Devotees sing religious hymns and carols and venerate the statue of Our Lady of Miracles with garlands and candles.
How To Reach Goa for the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles
Goa is one of the most popular and visited touristy places in India. It attracts millions of tourists every year from different parts of the country and world. It is easy to access through different means of transport. Here we bring you the details that can help you reach Goa through air, rail, or road.
- Nearest Metropolitan City. Mumbai
- Nearest Airport. Dabolim Airport
- Nearest Railbase. Dabolim Railway Station
- Distance From Mumbai. 584.5 Km
By Air
Deboard at the Dabolim Airport situated about 30-40 km away. The airport has good flight connectivity via direct and connecting flights from other Indian cities. After getting off the flight, you can easily book a taxi to reach your destination.
- Distance From Dabolim Airport. 27.4 Km
By Train
You can consider deboarding at either Dabolim Railway Station or the Karmali Railway Station. Both the stations are situated within a 40 km distance and have good train connectivity with other Indian cities. After deboarding at one of the stations, you will need to cover the remaining distance by some means of public transport.
- Distance From Dabolim Railway Station. 47.6 Km
- Distance From Karmali Railway Station. 2.6 Km
By Road
You can also consider travelling here by a well-maintained network of roadways and national highways as well. Depending upon your convenience, you can choose to travel by state-run/private buses, taxis or if you prefer to have some fun while traversing the roads then you can take your own vehicle as well.
- Distance From Amboli. 80-90 km via Hathkhamba-Goa Road
- Distance From Belgaum. 90-100 km via SH 54, SH 31
- Distance From Dandeli. 111 km via NH748
- Distance From Belgaum. 90 Km
- Distance From Hubli. 143 Km
- Distance From Kolhapur. 154 Km
- Distance From Delhi. 1869 Km
- Distance From Mumbai. 579 Km
- Distance From Kolkata. 2129 Km
- Distance From Bengaluru. 577 Km
Conclusion
The Feast of Our Lady of Miracles is more than just a religious event; it's a celebration of unity and harmony among different communities. It reflects the inclusive spirit of Goa, where people from various backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared values and traditions. This festival is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to experience the rich cultural mosaic of Goa and understand the deep-rooted harmony that exists between different faiths in this region.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Feast of Our Lady of Miracles
Ques 1. When is the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles held in North Goa?
Ans 1. Celebrated after 16 days of Easter, this fair-cum-festival is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of May every year. However, later the day of the festival was changed as it coincided with one of the solemnities when no feast could be held.
Ques 2. What is the major highlight of the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles?
Ans 2. This festival represents the undaunted unity between Christians and Hindus. The secular framework of this festival is its major highlight which has set an example about how Goa encourages and celebrates festivals where people of all religions and faiths participate with the same fervour and enthusiasm.
Ques 3: Who is honoured at the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles?
Ans 3: The festival honours Milagres Saibinn, who is revered in the Church of Our Lady of Miracles. She is also believed to be connected to Hindu deities Lairai and Kelbai, symbolising the shared reverence among Christians and Hindus.
Ques 4: What can visitors expect to see and do at the festival?
Ans 4: Visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of activities, including traditional Goan music, folk dances, and a variety of local food. There are colourful processions and special church services. The festival offers a unique experience combining Christian and Hindu cultural elements.
Ques 5: Why is the Feast of Our Lady of Miracles significant in promoting communal harmony?
Ans 5: This festival is significant because it demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of different faiths. It's a shining example of how people from diverse religious backgrounds in Goa participate together with equal enthusiasm. The festival fosters mutual respect and understanding, reinforcing the secular fabric of the region.
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