Goa is all set to celebrate one of its most vibrant and immersive traditional festivals, Chikhal Kalo 2025, hosted by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, from 5th to 7th July at the historic Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel. With its growing popularity among locals and visitors alike, the festival has become a powerful expression of Goa’s cultural identity and a significant highlight in the state’s monsoon tourism calendar.

Celebrated with immense enthusiasm and spiritual fervour, Chikhal Kalo is deeply rooted in Goan tradition. It commemorates the playful antics of Lord Krishna and his companions, re-enacted through a friendly community mud-play, drawing participants from all walks of life. Over the years, this festival has grown into a powerful expression of Goa’s intangible cultural heritage.

The festivities will begin on July 5th (Dashami) with a Cooking Competition showcasing traditional Goan vegetarian dishes. This will be followed by ‘Nachu Kirtanache Rangi’, a devotional musical program, and a soulful presentation of ‘Vitthalvaari’ featuring well-known artists such as Smt Mugdha Gaonkar, Shri Hrishikesh Sane, Shri Anay Ghate, Shri Utpal Sainekar, Shri Kedar Dhamaskar, and Shri Govind Gauthankar.

The formal inaugural function will be followed by a devotional music concert led by Dr Bharat Balvalli, along with artists Pandit Makrand Kundale, Shri Prasad Karambelkar, Shri Amar Oak, Shri Dada Parab, and Shri Govind Bhagat, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere in the temple precincts.

On July 6th, devotees will gather for a Bhajan recital inside the temple premises, observed on Ashadhi Ekadashi day, a sacred day in the Hindu calendar.

The celebrations will culminate on July 7th (Dwadashi) with the iconic Chikhal Kalo, where participants, young and old, joyfully engage in traditional games like Chengdu fali (mud ball games) and khushti (wrestling), as well as other rituals in the mud, celebrating the divine playfulness of Lord Krishna. These activities will be accompanied by the sound of traditional Goan instruments, such as the ghumot and shamel, creating a joyful and energetic atmosphere throughout the temple grounds. The event has become a significant attraction for cultural tourism, offering an authentic Goan experience that goes beyond the conventional.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, stated, “Chikhal Kalo exemplifies how deeply faith, folklore, and community spirit are woven into Goan culture. Festivals like Chikhal Kalo connect us with our roots and also provide an opportunity to showcase Goa’s cultural richness to the world. Through such events, we are strengthening our vision for regenerative tourism, where culture and tradition play a central role in shaping a responsible and inclusive tourism narrative.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added: “As part of our ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ campaign, the Department is committed to curating and promoting festivals like Chikhal Kalo that highlight Goa’s spiritual and rural heritage. This festival is a living example of community-led cultural celebration, and we are proud to support and elevate its reach to a wider audience both within and outside Goa.”

The Department of Tourism extends a warm invitation to everyone to be part of Chikhal Kalo 2025 and immerse themselves in this vibrant celebration of Goan heritage, unity, and joyous tradition.

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