Bonderam Goa festival

 Bonderam Goa festival - the colourful festival of Goa

Although Goa is a small state of India . Biut, still itis famous for its festive culture.

When it comes to festivals, traditions, and celebrations Goans are most active people I believe. Everyone comes together to participate in the revelries be it Ganesh Chaturthi, San Joao, Diwali, Christmas, Saptah, Bonderam, Shigmo, Carnival, everyone loves to have a good time. Bonderam is one such festival not to be missed

The “Bonderam” festival is celebrated on the Island of Divar on the fourth Saturday of August every year. The word “Bonderam” originated from the involvement of flags. “Bandeira” is the Portuguese word for flag. It is stated that during the Portuguese rule in Goa there were frequent disputes between two sections of the Divar village, namely Sao Mathias and Piedade over property issues. These often led to violence and fights in the village. Subsequently, the PortuguesIt is believed that this island was once a place of Hindu pilgrimage. There were a 

The island is blessed with lush green fields and hills. During the rains, the entire place is beautified by its flora.

Every year at the Bonderam festival. The crowd assembles along either side of the main road of the Divar. The tempo is set by a band. The band is usually lofal. People wielding fake shields and swords engage in mock battles. The beautifully colored floats accompanied by colorfully dressed youngsters makes for quite a pretty picture.

This Island is only accessible by ferry which you can get at Old Goa. The island is 12 kms away from Panjim. If you do not have your own transport then you can either hire a car or call for a cab. If you are heading to Divar from North Goa (Candolim, Baga, Calangute, Mapusa) you can catch a bus to the main bus stop in Panjim and take a cab from there or see if your hotel has taxi options. If you are heading to Divar Island from the south (Margao, Vasco) you can use the shuttle service that will bring you to the main bus stop in Panjim. Once in Panjim, you can hire a cab. Please make sure you check for the current rates at your hotel or homestay

It is believed that this island was once a place of Hindu pilgrimage. There were a few temples situated here, Shree Saptakoteshwar, Shree Ganesh, and Shree Dwarkeshwar. The Hindus were requested to take the idol of Ganesh to Khandola, near Marcel, also under the Portuguese rule at the time.

So Don't miss this unique experience and enjoy Bonderam Festivle.