Sao Joao was celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm at Salvador-do Mundo, with a difference. There was none of the usual jumping into wells. Instead the villagers had organised a talent show.

The festival had an eco-friendly aspect to it. Everything, right from the decoration to the plates and bowls used to serve food reflected this noble endeavour of the villagers.

A resident of the village, Mr Bruno D’Souza said that jumping into wells was not the only way to enjoy and that there were other ways to celebrate and preserve the traditions of the festival.

A resident of the village, Ms Senalda Fernandes said she simply enjoyed the Serula Sao Joao. She explains why. “I like this celebration because it is not male dominated. Both men and women were given equal opportunity to portray their talent. Such attempts uphold the unity among the villagers.”

‘Pez’, a traditional dish served at Sao Joao, which is also served as breakfast in many Goan households, was served in coconut shells. Food was served on a plate made from dry banana leaves. Locally grown fruits such as jackfruits, pineapple, guava, banana were displayed.

The festival had a lot to offer. ‘Cantarams’ and skits were performed. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of youngsters and children. The music from the brass band was a highlight of the event. Actors too got a chance to display their talent with a love story titled ‘Ek Mogachi Kani’, directed by Vheleni Lobo and produced by John D’Silva.

The villagers came forward to break coconuts with full gusto. For the girls there was football goal scoring game. The event was truly unique as they were no competitions, chief guest, no use of plastic and no sponsors. Towards the end it started pouring, which the people took as a sign to let go of inhibitions and sing and sway their blues away in the rains. 

All joyfully volunteered to make the event a grand success.