Relish a midsummer’s feast of Sao Joao Cha San in Kurla

Updated On: 23 June, 2024 09:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak Siddiqi

Colourful clothes, stunning kopels, a live band and traditional foods, Kurla’s São João Cha San is reminiscent of the centuries-old festivities of the feast in Goa

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East Indian residents of Kurla, at the Holy Cross Church, dressed in traditional attire for Sao Joao cha san. Pics/Anurag Ahire

Sao Joao, an annual Catholic religious festival that pays tribute to Saint John the Baptist, is celebrated worldwide, but in Goa, it’s unique. After attending Mass, Goan Catholic men, leap into and swim in local water bodies. For the second year, Action Group of Kurla is bringing this vibrant celebration, Sao Joao Cha San to life with rain dance showers, music by DJ Kyle and Roshan, a live East Indian band by Scorpion Music Makers, a swimming pool for ladies and children, a kopel (a floral headgear) contest and traditional food at the Holy Cross School Centenary Ground in Kurla, where the 444-year-old church built during the Portuguese era stands. “It’s a day to have fun and count your blessings,” says Blaise Gomes, co-founder, Action Group of Kurla and chief organiser of the event.

Women from Kurla’s Christian Village wear kopel