Canacona: The people of Betul in Agonda village celebrated their traditional Carnival, known as ‘Betulkarancho Carnaval, an age-old cultural festival dating back 150 years and reflecting unity, enthusiasm, and deep-rooted heritage. The residents of Betul mark this celebration every year with great devotion and excitement. Although the festivities last for three days, preparations begin well in advance. Participants carefully inspect and prepare their musical instruments, which play a vital role in the celebrations. Instruments such as Tasha, drums, ghumat, and brass finger cymbals (Kasal) are cleaned, repaired, and tuned to ensure perfect musical harmony during the festival.The celebration officially begins with a traditional ceremony known as “Dolar Bodi Mar”, which means striking the stick on the drum. The programme starts with a prayer seeking blessings for a successful celebration. Following the prayer, an elder or designated member strikes the drum or ghumot, marking the beginning of the Carnival. This ceremony takes place at a traditional location known as the Mandd.As the Carnival days approach, excitement spreads throughout the ward. Many residents working outside the village or abroad make special efforts to return home and participate in the festivities. A significant part of the celebration involves the villagers visiting the houses of their ‘vaddekars’. The hosts warmly welcome the group, join in the dances, and offer sweets as a gesture of joy and hospitality. Before leaving each house, the participants sing a thanksgiving song, symbolising gratitude and respect.Elders in the community recall that in earlier times, the celebration was even more extensive. Participants would travel across the village, staying away from home for two days, receiving food and shelter from the households they visited. Over the years, the tradition has evolved. Due to the increasing number of houses, the group now limits their visits to families originally belonging to Betul and Mudkud wards.Betulkarancho Carnaval continues to stand as a proud symbol of cultural identity, strengthening social bonds and preserving the rich traditions of Betul.
