Chikhal Kalo 2025 Ends on a High with Mud Play and Festive Spirit

The lively Chikhal Kalo 2025 Festival came to a close on July 7 at Sri Devki Krishna Temple, Marcel, with the eagerly anticipated mud play that united hundreds of devotees, visitors, young people, and families in a joyful celebration of faith, heritage, and the natural world. Occurring on Dwadashi, the final day saw spirited participation in traditional games, devotional singing, and the symbolic mud immersion — a colourful reimagining of Lord Krishna’s playful connection to the Earth.

The grounds of Sri Devki Krishna Temple burst with energy as participants engaged in age-old traditional games like chendu fali and kushti, celebrating Lord Krishna’s divine leela with laughter and camaraderie. The excitement reached a climax during the lively dahi handi, where the festive spirit was palpable, cheerfully supported by enthusiastic spectators. This entire experience reinforced fundamental values of devotion, community spirit, and gratitude for the monsoon, themes that have been central to the festival for generations.

Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A Khaunte, who actively participated in the celebrations, remarked, “This is our lok parampara, and it’s time we take it to the world. During Chikhal Kalo, people come together to celebrate, to play, and to reconnect with the soil. It is important to preserve such traditions and pass them on to future generations. Earlier, Goa was known mainly for its beaches—today, we are proudly promoting ‘Goa Beyond Beaches.’ With government support for festivals like these, we are also creating economic opportunities for our local communities. Over the past three years, Chikhal Kalo has received an overwhelming response. I believe everyone should be part of this celebration and help spread the message of unity.”

The festival also featured a Photography and Reel-Making Competition, encouraging participants to capture the vibrant spirit of Chikhal Kalo 2025. The entries beautifully depicted the festival’s playfulness, colours, and emotion, offering fresh storytelling perspectives rooted in tradition.

Over the past three days, the event has brought together spirituality, music, culture, and community. From soulful Abhang and Kirtan recitals on Day 1, to devotional Bhajan performances on Ashadhi Ekadashi (Day 2), culminating in lively mud rituals, Chikhal Kalo 2025 celebrated Goa’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

Goa Tourism, committed to the principle of Regenerative Tourism, reaffirmed its support for festivals that reflect the state’s cultural roots and foster community involvement. The participation of all age groups, along with increasing interest from visitors and digital audiences, highlights the growing demand for authentic, local, and inclusive experiences.