Inter-faith harmony takes center stage as pilgrims from Belagavi and Southern Maharashtra embark on a walking pilgrimage to Old Goa, continuing a long-standing tradition. Commencing their journey on November 29 and 30, pilgrims from various regions, including Gadhinglaj, Ajara, Kolhapur, Ichalkaranji, and Belagavi, will converge in Old Goa on December 3 to seek blessings and offer their Angvonn at the feet of 'Goencho Saib.'
Led by Parish Priest Fr Joe Monteiro, a group of approximately 250 pilgrims from Southern Maharashtra, including individuals from different faiths, braved the elements, including the hot sun and unseasonal rain showers, on their way to Old Goa. The pilgrimage, initiated by the late Jesuit Swami Prabhudhar from Ajara in 1982, has grown over the years, symbolizing inter-religious harmony.
The Belagavi group, accompanied by pilgrims from Khanapur, includes individuals from diverse faiths. Chanting hymns and reciting Rosary and hymns dedicated to St. Francis Xavier, the pilgrims commenced their journey, with around 700 of them set to reach Old Goa on Sunday morning. The pilgrimage has become a symbol of unity and cooperation between different religious communities, exemplified by the warm hospitality extended by the majority Hindu community in Here village and other stops along the route.
Fr. Monteiro emphasized that the pilgrimage not only gained popularity but also became a beacon of inter-religious harmony. The route includes stops at Jamboti, Chorla, and Sanquelim, where the group stays at a Temple in Chorla, cared for by the Hindu community.