Here's how Goa celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Milagres

The heart of Mapusa beats with devotion and festivity today as thousands gather to celebrate the annual Feast of Our Lady of Milagres, a beloved tradition that blends faith, folklore and community spirit.

Held at St Jerome’s Church, in Mapusa, on the second Monday after Easter, the feast is one of Goa’s most anticipated religious events, drawing both Catholic and Hindu devotees from across the state.

Although the church is dedicated to St. Jerome, it is Our Lady of Miracles who draws the faithful today. Over the years, her veneration has grown in prominence after her statue was placed in the during renovations. She is believed to intercede in times of illness and hardship, and the feast is considered a day of healing and prayer for many.

It is indeed heartening to see people from all walks of life come to pray to Milagres Saibinn, who is revered for the many miracles attributed to her intercession.

BEHIND THE NAME: 'Milagres Saibinn' (Our Lady of Miracles) was originally known as 'Nossa Senhora de Todos os Bens' (Our Lady of all Blessings).

On the feast, services begin early in the morning as it is a working day for most people. The church grounds and surrounding areas are abuzz with activity. The residents of the town make it a point to attend mass on this festive occasion.

Through the nine days of the novenas preceding the , a statue of Milagres Saibinn is placed outside the church, and devotees venerate her by pouring oil and offering symbolic items such as wax models of body parts — gestures made in hope or gratitude for divine intervention.

MAPUSA CELEBRATES: Milagres feast is celebrated in Mapusa after Easter in Goa.

Beyond its religious significance, the feast continues to serve as a powerful symbol of Goa’s . In local tradition, Milagres Saibinn is regarded as one of seven sister goddesses — revered by Hindus even before the Portuguese colonial era.

Folklore tells us that Milagris Saibin would send flowers as a gift to her sister, Goddess Lairai, during the zatra. And, Devi Lairai would, in turn, send oil for her sister's feast. Milagris Saibin is believed to be the deity Mirabai.

Just days ago, the zatra — dedicated to Goddess Lairai, one of the seven sisters — was celebrated in Goa.

SISTER ACT: According to local folklore, Milagris Saibinn and Goddess Lairai are sisters.

As part of the festivities, the Milagres Fiesta 2025 which begins today will feature tiatrs which is again, a showcase of Goan tradition and art forms.

Meanwhile, the famous feast fair which is in full swing, offers a variety of seasonal items, household goods and khajem. For many, it is also the Fest (stocking up for the upcoming rains).

FAIR & LOVELY: A huge fair is associated with the feast of Our Lady of Milagres.

The Feast of Our Lady of , steeped in history and held in deep reverence, continues to unite people across faiths. It is a celebration of Goa’s rich cultural fabric and resilient spirit.

It is a day that Mhapsekar's spend time celebrating the feast with loved ones from across the State and relatives who come to Goa, from around the world, for the summer , feasting over the customary festachem jevonn (festive food).