Gaonpalan - गावपळण

The 'Gaonpalan' tradition is a unique and ancient tradition, cherished and nurtured with great enthusiasm in Achra and Chindar, Malvan Taluka of Konkan. The Gaonpalan tradition has been around for centuries and is an integral part of the Konkan culture.

So, why Gaonpalan? What is the religious belief behind it? There are several stories in Malvan, but as of date no one actually know why this tradition is followed. It is a religious custom that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the village. Some believed that this tradition of Gaonpalan was started to seek the blessings of God and to reinforce the bond among the people of the village. Other say, Gaonpalan is a religious belief, which is celebrated to show gratitude to the almighty and seek his blessings. Some says, Gaonpalan, is a three-day journey to pay respect to the Goddess, who is believed to protect the village and its inhabitants.

Some might say this tradition are superstition, but if you look at it scientifically, you will understand the importance of that tradition. Andhashraddha Nirmulan Committee took up this issue. Looking at the nature of the village as a whole, it is wrong to label it as a direct superstition. In past, fasting was considered as superstition, but in present days it is scientifically proven that, fasting is good for health and proper fasting techniques are written in our ancient books of Vedas, Upanishads and Puranas.

I personally think that some scientific reasons are not easily acceptable to that social life, so it may have been coated with religiosity. When we think of knowing the social as well as the universal purpose of the ancestors behind a tradition, we will notice that our ancestors were thinking far ahead of the times. If human physiology is studied, then for a healthy human body, clean air, water as well as coexistence is important for social growth. All these things are achieved unknowingly through the villagers.

How are the dates decided? What people do during Gaonpalan? What rituals are followed?

Dates for the event are usually fixed 3 years apart and usually declared by the twelve panch Mankaris after the village deity gave kaul.

On the second day of Tripuratri Poornima, twelve panch Mankaris gather in Ravalnath temple and take one kaul prasad of rice to Ravalnath. After the right kaul prasad, the twelve panch Mankaris sit together and ask permission of god by saying “the three-year limit has come and do you have permission to perform village worship and god worship at this time” and after getting the appropriate permission from god, twelve panch Mankaris then decide the date. The twelve panch mankaris take several factors into consideration, such as the availability of resources, weather, etc. to ensure the successful completion of this journey.

The safety of the Chindar villagers who lived outside the veshi (boundaries) for three days and three nights was blessed with the blessings of Shiva at the Ravalnath temple. On 19th November 2022 the drums began to sound with the warning. Closing the house and tying the branches (bushes) of the coconut tree on the door and wearing a ring of ashes around the house, Chindar villagers were running to get out of the village as soon as possible, regardless of the sun. In those few minutes, the village was completely deserted and only the wind blows in the village. Chindar village was now going down even in the age of science for a unique village tradition that has been going on for the last several years.  

During Gaonpalan, people build their makeshift tents near the lake or a nearby forest and spend three days engaging in various activities, such as fishing, singing, dancing, playing, storytelling, etc. People also bring their cattle along with them and take great care to protect them, as this is a sign of respect to the Goddess. The three days of Gaonpalan are a time for the entire village to come together and celebrate. At night, the villagers gather around a bonfire singing, dancing, playing and tell stories of the past. It is a time for them to forget their worries and enjoy the beauty of nature, while also experiencing the culture and customs of Konkan. The experience of 'Gaonpalan' is both spiritual and social, allowing the villagers to reconnect with each other and with their faith. People of all ages come together to make this journey a memorable one, filled with adventure and passion.

This year, the Gaonpalan tradition of Chindar village has attracted the attention of many people from cities, who are coming to experience the festivities and celebrate the spirit of Gaonpalan. The Gaonpalan tradition has gained popularity in recent times and has become a magnet for urbanites and tourists. Youtubers and Vloggers are also flocking to this village to capture the beauty of this event and spread the joy of Gaonpalan to the world. So, if you are looking for an adventure, then this is the perfect place for you. Join the people of Chindar village and experience the joy and excitement of Gaonpalan! The Gaonpalan tradition is a beautiful and unique way of celebrating life and is a must-do for all those who wish to experience the simple joys of life in the lap of nature. If you ever get a chance, make sure to be a part of the Chindar family’s Gaonpalan tradition and enjoy the humble, passionate, adventures experience of a lifetime.

During these three days, a fair of twelve panch is held at 2 p.m. at the Sateri Temple in Trimbak. A review is taken. On the fourth day, twelve panch mankaris silently and quietly gather at the Rawalnath Temple to take kaul prasad i.e. ask permission of God for villager to go back to their village. Permission is also taken only once. If it is left, kaul prasad is taken again on the fifth day.

The embarking on a three-day journey as per the call of God, returning to the village on 22nd November 2022. This journey is known as 'Gaonpalan'.

It is a tradition that is nurtured with great enthusiasm every three years by taking the call of God and is a reminder of the strong religious beliefs of the people of Konkan.