Report and pics from Rajtilak Naik in Panaji
for Daijiworld Media Network - Goa (MB)
Panaji, Jul 29: The annual feast of St Ann, otherwise known as the Cucumber Feast or better known as the 'Tovshachem Fest', was celebrated at the St. Ann's Church at Santan, about 12 kms from Panaji.
A woman sells cucumbers outside St Ann's Church
The Feast Mass proceedings
Bishop Allwyn Barretto of Sindhudurg (centre) was present for the special Feast Mass
The highlight of the feast is devotees offerin offering cucumbers to the Almighty besides flowers and candles.
Devotees are seen offering cucumbers, flowers and candles to our Lady of St. Ann
Young bachelors and spinsters attend the feast in great numbers and pray for a good wife and husband respectively. Those already betrothed do their offerings in wish to marry soon. Mothers with issues pray their hearts out to have a child and come back again when after their wish is fulfilled. The feast is in general an occasion for praying and getting one's wishes fulfilled.
The feast was attended by hundreds of locals and people from across the state. The feast transcends the barriers of caste and creed. People from all walks of life and religions pray for the attainment of their wishes.
Bishop of Sindhudurg Allwyn Barretto offered the special festal mass proceedings with the local priests.
A newly engaged couple with their offerings for secret wish
The balloon-vendor adding some colour to the celebrations; Children were in good numbers
St Ann's Church of Santan village
History
The Feast of St. Ann is being celebrated since 1595 after when a woman first prayed in the Church for her husband's safe return from a voyage on the sea, when the ship he was working in got stuck in a strong storm. Very soon her husband returned home safely.
Ever since the faith has continued and people from all walks of life started praying in great belief and hope.
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