The silent protectors of spiritual heritage in Goa's Ponda

SPIRITUAL LEGACY

Ponda in Goa is not only known for its lush landscapes and historical significance but also for its rich spiritual heritage.

PROTECTIVE COVER

A lesser-known aspect of this spiritual heritage lies in the sacred temples dedicated to village rakhnos (known as protectors) or guardian spirits.

LESS SPOKEN OF

These temples or shrines, often overshadowed by the larger, more famous religious sites, serve as guardians of Ponda’s sacred soul, preserving the cultural and spiritual fabric of the area.  

SHREE ZARESHWAR

One of the notable temples in the heart of Ponda is Shree Zareshwar, located opposite the old bus stand.

SHREE KATAMGAL DADA

Located amidst a grove of mango trees near the Goa Engineering College campus in Farmagudi, Shree Katamgal Dada is another gem of Ponda.

SHREE SHITOLKAR

In the village of Querim, Ponda, Shree Shitolkar stands quietly near the Bhoot Khamb (a sacred tree believed to be spiritually significant).

SHREE CHIKOLKAR

The Shree Chikolkar Temple, also known as Chikolkar Ped, is located in the village of Mansher Agapur, Durbhat.

SHREE DEV GHODKESHWAR

Shree Dev Ghodkeshwar, also known as Godkakade, is located in the serene village of Talaulim in Ponda.

SHREE GADADEV

Situated in Dhavli, Ponda, Shree Gadadev, also known as Shree Gadeshwar Temple, is another sacred site that plays an important role in preserving the spiritual energy of the region.

SHREE KASTESHWAR

Finally, Shree Kasteshwar in Adpai, Ponda, stands as another pivotal spiritual landmark in the region.

NEXT: A temple on Goa's Divar Island waiting to be discovered