Goa Celebrates Lairai Jatra 2025 Today with Devotion and Fiery Rituals in Shirgao
Shirgao, Goa – 2nd May 2025:
Goa is immersed in spiritual fervour today as thousands of devotees gather in the village of Shirgao, Bicholim to celebrate the much-revered Lairai Jatra 2025. This iconic festival, dedicated to Goddess Lairai, showcases the deep-rooted faith and cultural richness of the state, highlighted by the breathtaking fire-walking ritual that takes place late into the night.
The sacred grounds of the Shree Lairai Devi Temple are buzzing with devotional energy as the “dhonds”, barefoot devotees, prepare to walk across burning embers—a ritual known as Agnidivya. This act of spiritual endurance and surrender is the centerpiece of the festival and symbolizes the triumph of faith over fear and the goddess’s power to purify and protect.
Devotees have been preparing for this day through weeks of fasting, prayer, and personal discipline. The fire-walking is expected to commence past midnight, following hours of chanting, drum beats, and religious ceremonies.
The Lairai Jatra is not just a religious event but a cultural spectacle that brings together people from across Goa and neighbouring states. Locals and visitors alike flock to Shirgao, drawn by the mystique of the ritual and the magnetic devotion surrounding the goddess.
Though celebrated mainly in Shirgao, Goddess Lairai is also worshipped at other temples, including the one in Shiroda, South Goa, which observed its own festivities earlier this year. However, today’s grand event in Shirgao remains the most prominent, marking the climax of Goa’s spiritual calendar.
Authorities have deployed police, medical teams, and fire safety units across the village to manage the large crowds and ensure the safety of all participants and onlookers. Special transport arrangements have also been made to assist pilgrims traveling to and from the event.
As the sun sets, the village of Shirgao prepares for the sacred fire ritual, and the eyes of Goa turn toward the glowing embers that will once again test the faith of the dhonds.
Today, Goa celebrates not just a tradition, but a living testament to courage, devotion, and the enduring power of belief.
