Goa, Oct. 14 -- Janet Mascarenhas

Since September began, the statue of Our Lady has been travelling from home to home across Christian houses in different parts of Goa. An annual tradition, she is welcomed with lots of love, devotion and excitement every year. Families prepare an altar where they place her with great reverence and pray along with the community every evening. the next evening she then proceeds to another home. Once a simple arrangement of white satin or lace, adorned with flowers plucked from the garden, these home altars have gradually taken on a more elaborate look. Today, carefully chosen colour palettes, floral arrangements, themed backdrops and handmade decorations are adding a creative touch to this cherished expres...