Panaji: The Goa Department of Tourism has officially inaugurated the three-day Chikhal Kalo Festival 2026 at Marcel, marking the beginning of one of the state’s most celebrated monsoon festivals. The annual event highlights Goa’s rich cultural heritage, devotional traditions, and community participation, culminating in the iconic Chikhal Kalo mud play.
The festival began near the Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, senior government officials, dignitaries, devotees, and visitors from across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant described Chikhal Kalo as more than a traditional celebration, calling it a symbol of unity, togetherness, and Goa’s cultural identity.
He said the centuries-old mud play brings people together regardless of age or background, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the festival and strengthening community bonds.
The Chief Minister noted that preserving such traditions helps keep Goa’s unique cultural heritage alive for future generations.
The inaugural ceremony featured a blend of spirituality, music, and art.
One of the highlights was the felicitation of renowned classical vocalist Mahesh Kale, who was honoured with a Kaavi portrait created by Goan artist Sagar Naik Mule, celebrating the state’s traditional artistic heritage.
Following the ceremony, Mahesh Kale presented “Abhangwari,” a devotional musical performance that captivated the audience with soulful renditions of Abhangs dedicated to Lord Vitthal.
The opening day also included:
- A traditional cooking competition.
- “Anubhooti,” a musical performance by Tanvi Walawalkar and The Heart of Jogan Band.
- Cultural programmes celebrating Goa’s folk traditions.
Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte invited residents and visitors to witness the festival’s main attraction—the Chikhal Kalo mud play—scheduled for Sunday, July 26.
He described the event as a unique cultural experience where people of all ages come together in celebration, devotion, and joy.
According to the minister, Chikhal Kalo offers visitors an opportunity to experience Goa beyond its beaches by exploring the state’s vibrant traditions and living cultural heritage.
Chikhal Kalo is one of Goa’s most distinctive monsoon festivals and is closely associated with the Shree Devki Krishna Temple at Marcel.
The festival commemorates the playful childhood of Lord Krishna, with devotees participating in traditional mud games that symbolize joy, innocence, and community spirit.
The celebration attracts devotees, tourists, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts every year, making it an important event on Goa’s cultural calendar.
The three-day festival will conclude on Sunday, July 26, with the much-awaited Chikhal Kalo mud play, beginning at 11:00 AM.
Thousands of devotees and visitors are expected to gather for the event, which celebrates Lord Krishna’s playful spirit through age-old traditions of mud games, devotional rituals, and community participation.
The mud play remains the festival’s most anticipated attraction and a defining symbol of Goa’s monsoon celebrations.
