Goa is preparing to welcome locals and visitors alike to one of its most vibrant and immersive traditional festivals—Chikhal Kalo 2025, scheduled to take place from July 5 to 7 at the historic Shree Devki Krishna Temple in Marcel. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, this dynamic festival has evolved into a cornerstone of Goa’s monsoon calendar and a powerful celebration of its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Rooted in folklore and devotion, Chikhal Kalo is a dramatic re-enactment of Lord Krishna’s playful childhood games, where participants of all ages plunge into temple grounds turned muddy fields, embracing joy, community bonding, and sacred symbolism. The festival’s popularity has surged in recent years, drawing cultural enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and travellers looking to experience Goa beyond the coastline.
A Three-Day Cultural Journey
Day 1: July 5 – Dashami
The festival opens with a traditional vegetarian cooking competition, showcasing Goan culinary heritage. This is followed by Nachu Kirtanache Rangi, a devotional music segment celebrating spiritual storytelling. Later, the audience will be treated to Vitthalvaari, an expressive musical performance featuring leading artists Mugdha Gaonkar, Hrishikesh Sane, Anay Ghate, Utpal Sainekar, Kedar Dhamaskar, and Govind Gauthankar.
The evening will also include a devotional music concert led by Dr. Bharat Balvalli, with contributions from eminent musicians including Pandit Makrand Kundale, Prasad Karambelkar, Amar Oak, Dada Parab, and Govind Bhagat, infusing the temple complex with spiritual resonance.
Day 2: July 6 – Ashadhi Ekadashi
Ashadhi Ekadashi will be marked with early morning bhajans and devotional recitals, bringing together devotees for collective spiritual immersion. The atmosphere will be one of introspection, devotion, and preparation for the festival’s high point.
Day 3: July 7 – Dwadashi & Chikhal Kalo Ritual
The final day features the iconic Chikhal Kalo ritual, a joyful yet symbolic mud-play event where children and adults alike engage in traditional games, including mud wrestling, evoking the innocence and unity of Krishna’s divine childhood. The ritual also reflects agrarian gratitude and community togetherness during the monsoon season.
Celebrating Culture as Tourism
Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, underscored the festival’s growing importance within Goa’s cultural tourism narrative.
“Chikhal Kalo exemplifies how faith, folklore, and community spirit are deeply embedded in Goan culture. Through this festival, we connect with our roots while inviting the world to witness Goa’s unique cultural richness. It supports our broader vision of regenerative tourism—where heritage and sustainability go hand in hand.”
Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added:
“As part of our ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ campaign, we are committed to curating and promoting traditional festivals like Chikhal Kalo that highlight Goa’s spiritual and rural essence. This is a community-driven cultural celebration, and we are proud to support its continued evolution and reach.”
Chikhal Kalo 2025 is not just a festival—it’s a living tradition, a sensory experience, and a cultural revelation. Against the lush backdrop of Goa’s monsoon landscape, this event stands as a celebration of spirituality, heritage, and joyful abandon, where mud becomes a medium of unity, and every splash tells a story of devotion.
Image Credits: Saurabh Dalvi
