Mumbai soaks in the spirit of Sao Joao

While citizens were spending a relaxed Sunday, East Indians and Goan Catholics in city celebrated San Jao Cha Sann or San Jao festival. The festival is dedicated to St John the Baptist, who is said to have baptised Jesus Christ. Members of the community celebrate the festival at Bassein (Vasai), Dharavi Beth (Manori, Gorai and Uttan), Pond (Vile Parle) and other gaonthans in city.

"It's basically the feast of St John the Baptist. Back then one used to be baptized by taking a dip in the well or a water body or water being poured on the head. Christ was baptized in the Jordan river. Thus, people are baptised by being immersed in water," said Gleason Baretto, founder trustee of Mobai Gaothan Panchayat, adding, "On this auspicious day we have also decided to approach authorities to restore our wells, ponds and lakes and protect them."

Sebastian Sequeira, President of Goan Outreach Association (GOA) which organised the festival said, "As part of the celebrations this year, we have invited Goans from across Mumbai to Manori. In Goa, people normally go to their in-laws house. After that, they go to a well and take a dip in it." Normally it is the bride's home where the festival is observed. East Indians call it Zaavaycha Sann (new son-in-law day).

Sequeira said, "This time we decided to not go to in-laws place but at Manori. We took a dip in a swimming pool. Games and other fun activities were planned to keep everyone engaged while preserving culture."