Ghode Modni
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A warrior dance of Goa in which men wear wooden horse frames at the waist and recreate the valour of mounted soldiers, mainly during Shigmo.
MartialWhere: Goa, especially Bicholim, Pernem and Sattari talukasOccasion: Shigmo, the spring festival
| Performed by | Men of the villages, in troupes |
|---|---|
| Costume | A colourful dummy horse fixed around the waist, a turban with a crest, and a sword or stick in the hand |
| Music and instruments | Dhol, taso and cymbals |
How it is performed
- Each dancer steps into a decorated wooden horse frame tied at the waist, so he appears to ride it.
- The group moves to the drums with prancing, galloping steps.
- Dancers wave swords and form battle lines, charging and turning as if in combat.
- The troupe goes from house to house and village square to village square during the festival.
Significance
According to local tradition, the dance celebrates the return of victorious warriors. It keeps alive the martial memory of the villages of north Goa.