Department of Tourism invites locals and tourists to experience Goa’s vibrant cultural festival of playful mud rituals, devotional music, and authentic Goan heritage from July 5–7 at Shree Devki Krishna Temple, Marcel.
Panaji, June 28, 2025: Goa is set to come alive with the spirit of Chikhal Kalo 2025, one of its most unique and culturally immersive festivals, taking place from July 5 to 7 at the historic Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel. Hosted by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, Chikhal Kalo has become a symbol of the state’s monsoon tourism and a celebration of its rich intangible heritage.
Rooted in tradition and spiritual devotion, Chikhal Kalo re-enacts the playful escapades of Lord Krishna and his companions through communal mud play, attracting participants across generations. The festivities begin on July 5 (Dashami) with a traditional Goan vegetarian cooking competition, followed by Nachu Kirtanache Rangi, a devotional music performance, and Vitthalvaari, featuring renowned artists including Smt Mugdha Gaonkar, Shri Hrishikesh Sane, Shri Anay Ghate, Shri Utpal Sainekar, Shri Kedar Dhamaskar, and Shri Govind Gauthankar.
A formal inaugural ceremony will include a soul-stirring concert led by Dr. Bharat Balvalli, joined by Pandit Makrand Kundale, Shri Prasad Karambelkar, Shri Amar Oak, Shri Dada Parab, and Shri Govind Bhagat, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere within the temple precincts.
On July 6 (Ashadhi Ekadashi), devotees will gather for a Bhajan recital marking the sacred day, deepening the festival’s spiritual connection.
The celebrations reach their climax on July 7 (Dwadashi) with the iconic Chikhal Kalo mud games, where participants joyfully engage in chendu fali (mud ball games) and khushti (wrestling) amid the vibrant sounds of traditional Goan instruments like the ghumot and shamel, embodying the divine playfulness of Lord Krishna. The event promises a captivating, authentic experience of Goa’s rural and spiritual traditions.
Speaking on the significance of the festival, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, said, “Chikhal Kalo exemplifies how faith, folklore, and community spirit are interwoven into Goan culture. Festivals like these connect us with our roots and provide a platform to showcase Goa’s cultural richness to the world. This aligns with our commitment to regenerative tourism, where tradition shapes a responsible and inclusive narrative.”
Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added, “Through our ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ campaign, we aim to promote festivals like Chikhal Kalo that highlight the state’s spiritual and rural heritage. This community-led celebration is a testament to Goa’s cultural vibrancy, and we are proud to bring it to a wider audience.”
The Department of Tourism extends a heartfelt invitation to all to join Chikhal Kalo 2025 and celebrate Goa’s unity, heritage, and joyous traditions.