Thanksgiving is celebrated world over
with equal fervor and euphoria. It conveys the universal feeling of
being thankful to Lord Almighty for his continuous grace. India is a
multi-lingual, multi-cultural and a secular country; also popular for
its spirituality, God loving and God fearing people. It is known for its
'Unity in Diversity'. With the spread of westen culture, Thanksgiving is
celebrated in quite a few parts of India, the major festivity is
however, observed by Christians in the state of Goa.
Thanksgiving Day Celebration in Goa
Thanksgiving is primarily celebrated in the state of Goa, with a
different name. Thanksgiving is popularly known as 'Ladin'
or 'Ladainha' in India. 'Ladin' literally means a litany to the
Virgin Mary. During the Thanksgiving ritual, people thank God for all
the material and spiritual benefits. The Thanksgiving function is
sponsored by a different person every year who either seeks benefits or
has been lucky enough to have God's special grace. Christians start
preparing for Thanksgiving celebrations by purchasing wheat and gram,
candles, wine and colored tinsel paper. A temporary platform/altar is
constructed which is decorated with flowers, vines and creepers.
Celebrations also include singing of hymns and prayers. The village
local violinist/choirmaster conducts the entire show of singing of
litany.
Religious Feast of Thanksgiving in Goa
Another celebration associated with the feeling of Thanksgiving, is the
popular religious feast of conception of Mother Mary. It is a time for
farmers to cut the first harvest of milk-filed corn from the rice field
and offer it to God. This is done to seek God's blessing for a good
harvest in the coming season. Though the date of celebrations varies in
different parts of Goa, but generally it is celebrated on the 15th of
August every year.
