Betim (Goa):
In the quiet lanes of Madla waddo, the air is filled with the smell of paint and the crackle of bamboo. Standing atop a makeshift platform late on Saturday night, Anush Metar carefully spray-paints the face of a 52-foot effigy of Narakasura, the demon king whose defeat is celebrated on the eve of Diwali.
For two sleepless nights, Metar and his team — the Zingaro Boys, a well-known cultural group in Betim — have been putting the final touches to their towering creation. Crafted from bamboo, paper, cloth, and vibrant paints, the effigy looms high against the Goan night sky, ready to be set ablaze at dawn.
Keeping an age-old Goan tradition alive
The burning of Narakasura effigies is a deeply rooted Goan custom, marking the triumph of good over evil. While most of India celebrates Dussehra by burning effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad, in Goa, it is Narak Chaturdashi, the day before Diwali, that brings the fiery spectacle to life.
“Just like Ravana effigies are burnt on Dussehra in other states, we burn effigies of Narakasura on Diwali. You will find one in every street. The tradition has continued for generations,” said Metar, his hands still streaked with paint.
Across villages and towns in Goa, groups like the Zingaro Boys compete to create the tallest and most elaborately designed effigy, complete with illuminated eyes, moving limbs, and mythological motifs.
A night of creativity and community
For the youth of Betim, the annual event is more than just a festival — it’s a celebration of teamwork, artistry, and cultural pride. Residents contribute materials and funds, while volunteers gather to help with painting, carpentry, and decorating.
By early morning, music and drumbeats fill the streets as locals parade their effigies before setting them ablaze, symbolising the destruction of evil and darkness.
“Everyone in the area takes part,” said Rohan Naik, another member of the Zingaro Boys. “It’s not about competition — it’s about keeping our culture alive. Even the little ones help us by painting or collecting paper.”
The legend behind Narakasura
According to Hindu mythology, Narakasura was a powerful demon king who ruled Pragjyotishpur (present-day Assam) and terrorised gods and humans alike. He was ultimately slain by Lord Krishna and his wife Satyabhama, marking the victory of righteousness.
In Goa, the celebration begins before dawn, with locals lighting firecrackers and bursting the effigy of Narakasura to symbolise the destruction of evil. The morning is followed by festive rituals, oil baths, and sweets distribution — ushering in Diwali with joy and light.
Tradition meets modernity
While the effigies remain rooted in mythology, modern techniques — like LED lighting and eco-friendly materials — are now shaping the art form. “We use biodegradable paints and bamboo instead of plastic,” Metar noted. “We want to preserve the environment while keeping the tradition alive.”
As dawn approaches, the 52-foot Narakasura of Betim stands tall, bathed in the glow of diyas and anticipation. When the flames rise, they will carry with them centuries of Goan faith, creativity, and celebration — a fiery prelude to Diwali’s light.