Goa is popular not only for its great beaches but also for its fairs and festivals. The fairs and festivals of Goa lend more charm to Goa. For a long period of time, Goa had been under the strong influence of the Portuguese and thus there are many people who have a strong belief in the catholic. Hence, Easter is one of the most sought-after events of Goa which is celebrated with great zeal and gusto by its people.

Easter in Goa is observed by the Goanese with sincere reverence. The period of Lent is an important annual event in the lives of the Catholics. It is observed for a period of 40 days from the month of February to March; beginning with Ash Wednesday and ending with Holy Saturday the day before Easter Sunday.

The Legend behind Easter:
Initially, Easter was known as �God�s Friday�. Easter Sunday is celebrated in honor of the day Jesus Christ, the founder of Christianity, rose from the dead. He was quite revered by his followers and also referred to as the Son of God, while some of the high officials and Jewish priests thought that he was trying to assume their authority and hatched a plan to get rid him.

He was proved guilty on false grounds and was charged for misleading the people and dissuading them from paying the taxes to the emperors. Upon a unanimous decision he was crucified along with two other criminals. According to the legends he rose from his grave the following Sunday and hence Easter is celebrated on that day. The rites of Good Friday commence on the preceding Thursday. A feast symbolizing the Last Supper of Christ is held on Thursday night. The beginning of the fast for Easter is marked by the end of the meal.

The Celebrations:
The celebrations of Easter are marked by the gatherings of Goan Catholics in the Panjim Church of Mary Immaculate Conception to listen to mass and take part in the Way of the Cross. In the afternoon sermon, the priests describe the pains that Jesus Christ took upon himself for the well-being of humanity. The people stand in the doorways and in the premises, clad in formal clothes with solemn expression. This Christian Festival in Goa sees great participation by the people of Goa.

The Ceremony :
After the mass, the crucifix is unveiled before the crowd for reverence. Then a large wooden cross is carried by someone dressed as Jesus, down the steps, and through the streets of the town. The crowd follows in two corresponding lines in front of and behind the statue, some weeping and all with very somber faces. The non-participants look on from the roadsides, both Hindus and Christians alike. Somber music played by a band accompanies the procession, which slowly winds its way through the main streets in Panjim before returning to the church. These religious events take place in every church in Goa, but the one in Panjim draws the largest crowd.

Find more about the Easter on the site touristplacesinindia.com that also offers useful piece of information on the Beaches of Easter.

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