Goa, May 1 -- The fragrance from the garland made out of jasmine (mogra) rends theair, turning the ambiance into a captivating experience for thousands of devotees who throng the shrine of Lairai Devi in Shirgao to offer their prayers. Shirgavchee Zatra (feast) will be celebrated today, the 2nd May, Vaishakh Panchami as per the lunar calendar.

A humid day is no issue, as every road will lead to the temple, and it's a sight to behold as Dhonds, the Devi's devotees, clad in red or orange or purple dhoti and a white cotton banian, holding a twisted (Beth) cane stick, will be the cynosure of everyone. The enthusiasm and energy of each devotee is unimaginable, be it youngsters or the elderly, coming from far and wide. The feast is never misse...