Monsoon, mud and more at Marcel's Chikal Kalo in Goa

One of Goa’s most cherished festivals is returning this July and here’s a hint: it’s all about mud. Does that ring a bell? You’ve probably already seen the buzz on social media, yes, the wait for Chikal Kalo is finally ending.

For three days, starting this weekend, various festivities are going to unfold at the Devaki Krishna Temple, in Marcel, North Goa, which is believed to be the rarest in all of India, and the only one dedicated to the mother-son duo.

Goa in the monsoons is pure nostalgia

Rooted in tradition, every year the festival witnesses a large number of devotees. The name Chikal Kalo literally means 'mud play' and celebrates Lord Krishna’s playful nature, while showcasing the villagers' strong bonds and deep connection with the earth.

THREE DAYS OF FESTIVITIES

This year, the festival will cover three days, starting from Saturday, July 5, 2025 to Monday, July 7, 2025, and has been organised in collaboration with the Goa Tourism Department. Here’s what’s in store:

DEVOTION AT MARCEL: 'Chikal Kalo' takes place at the Devaki Krishna Temple on the 11th day of the Hindu month of 'Ashadh'.

DAY 1: On July 5, Dashami, a cooking competition highlighting traditional Goan vegetarian dishes, will be held at 4 pm followed by a devotional musical programme, Nachu Kirtanache Rangi.

A soulful rendition of Vitthalvaari, featuring artists such as Mugdha Gaonkar, Hrishikesh Sane, Anay Ghate, Utpal Sainekar, Kedar Dhamaskar and Govind Gauthankar, is scheduled before the formal inaugural function at 7 pm.

A spiritual ambience will envelop the templeprecincts right on the first day, with a devotional music concert led by Dr Bharat Balvalli who will be joined by artists Pandit Makrand Kundale, Prasad Karambelkar, Amar Oak, Dada Parab and Govind Bhagat.

Goa's Chikal Kalo festival makes a splash

DAY 2: On July 6, which is observed as Ashadhi Ekadashi, an auspicious day in the Hindu calendar, devotees will gather for bhajan recitals within the Devaki Krishna Temple premises for spiritual reflection.

DAY 3: July 7, Dwadashi, marks the highlight of the Chikal Kalo festival, and you have to be there at least on this day if not the others. The day begins early with age-old rituals — men oil their bodies, perform the sacred parikrama of the temple, and then eagerly dive into the mud.

IMMERSIVE FESTIVALS: Join in this must-attend monsoon celebration in Goa.

Amidst the rhythmic beats of the ghumot and other traditional instruments, the young and the old join in the lively games like chendu fali (mud ball games), khushti (wrestling) and dahi handi, honouring the divine playfulness of Lord Krishna.

Adding to the excitement, a reel and photography competition will also take place on this concluding day, and is open for visitors, who can register and participate.

This year, the festival will cover three days, starting from Saturday, July 5, 2025 to Monday, July 7, 2025.

PLANNING TO JOIN IN?

Wear something you don’t mind getting dirty, something old would be suitable. Bring a towel and a change of clothes, just in case. For footwear, keep it simple and comfortable; avoid shoes completely. Since July is right in the midst of the monsoons in Goa, don’t forget to carry rainwear.

Plan to arrive early on the final day to avoid traffic, secure parking and not miss any of the rituals.

Know how Goa’s monsoon festivals keep the spirit of celebration alive

The Devaki Krishna Temple, in Marcel, is a roughly 30-minute drive from Panjim city (18.3 km) and is pretty easy to reach if you’re using a rental vehicle.

From Dabolim airport, it’s an approx 55-minute drive; and from Mopait's around 68 minutes. The nearest railway station you can opt for is Karmali.

So, this July, come witness Goa’s one of a kind celebration of Chikal Kalo, where locals dive into age-old traditions and bond with nature unlike anywhere else.