The experience
You'll join Sulochana's circle of women in a Ponda temple courtyard, clapping out a steady beat as the circle turns and the song's tempo climbs. There's no instrument here beyond hands and voices, and by the end your palms will remember the rhythm.
Why this matters
Fugdi is one of Goa's oldest women's folk dances, performed at temple festivals and Ganesh Chaturthi without any instrumental accompaniment — just clapping, singing and footwork.
Cultural background
Traditionally devotional, Fugdi songs often invoke local deities and are sung entirely by the dancers themselves as the circle gradually accelerates toward its finish.
Meet the practitioner
We're still verifying a practitioner for this experience — check back soon.
Schedule
Morning
Learning the basic step and clap pattern
Afternoon
Building the circle formation and the accelerating finish
Difficulty
Easy to moderate — some stamina needed for the finishing sprint
Age suitability
10 and up
Gallery
The circle forming in the courtyard
Clapping rhythm practice
The accelerating finishPhotographs from this experience will replace these panels once available.
Included
- Instruction from Sulochana's Fugdi circle
- Refreshments
- Traditional accompaniment songs
Not included
- Flights to Goa
- Accommodation
- Personal insurance
Before you arrive
- · Wear a sari or comfortable flowing clothing if possible
- · Bare feet or flexible flat shoes
- · Bring water — the pace builds quickly
Frequently asked
Is this only for women?
Traditionally performed by women, though Sulochana welcomes mixed groups for the workshop.
How physically demanding is it?
It starts slow but the tempo builds — expect to work up a light sweat by the end.
What people say
“The circle just picks up speed and suddenly everyone's laughing and out of breath.”
Meenal J. · 5/5
“Sulochana's group welcomed us in like family. Simple, joyful dance.”
Claire N. · 5/5
Not a sight to see — a practice to enter.