Photos: A Goan island opens its doors to ‘friendly’ Potekars

Potekars greet a child riding on a scooter in Divar on Sunday

We want to make this a people-friendly festival, said Marius Fernandes who is known for curating various festivals over the past 20 years

Every Carnival, when King Momo announces three days of fun and merriment, Divarkars celebrate the festival

In the past, Potekars used to go to schools and scare the teachers and students. That forced schools to remain shut for three days

After a long day of spreading friendly terror, Potekars too need a break to refuel and keep their spirits up

Children, not surprisingly, recede into the shadows as they pretend to frighten them

Many say the tradition is related to customs and rituals practiced by village communes, known as gaunkaries

For three days, at no specific times, Potekars put on their scary costumes and masks, and prance around the streets

Divarkars (villagers from Malar, Piedade and Naroa) have kept the festival alive for decades

Young children happily pose for pictures with the Potekars