Our Temple's Rich Heritage

Nestled in the village of Khándola-Mashel (Marcel), Goa, Shree Bhagwati Haldonkarin Devasthan is a revered temple dedicated to the Mother Goddess in her fierce and benevolent form. Known as Bhagwati Haldonkarin — embodying Mahishasuramardini — this worship is steeped in history, faith, and cultural continuity.

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Deity & Significance

• Divine Form
  Bhagwati Haldonkarin is worshipped in the same form as Mahishasuramardini, an avatar of the goddess who defeated the demon Mahishasura. The idol bears resemblance to that of Tuljabhavani Mata of Tuljapur.

• Community & Faith
  The devotees are diverse: original residents, families who returned or remained through religious and social turmoil, and also Christian members (whose ancestors were forcibly converted) still maintain devotion. The tradition of seeking blessings (‘kaulprasad’) in times of personal or family difficulty crosses religious lines.

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Architecture & Structure

• While precise dates of foundation, architectural styles, and renovations are not fully documented, what is known:

  • The temple includes several panchayatān deities (affiliated gods), including Sateeri, Dād, Ravalnath, Siddhanath, Lakshminarayan Joshipurush, and Mallinath Purush.

  • Being an established institution since colonial times, it carries features of Goan temple architecture adapted with the constraints and influences of Portuguese rule. Structural registers and legally recognized boundaries exist.

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Festivals & Rituals

• Mahapervani: The biggest festival, during which the idol is carried in a palanquin procession. It is marked by much fanfare, traditional rituals, and large gatherings.

• Navratri: Celebrated with special pujas, "Roozvan ghalne" (sowing of nine kinds of grains), and a puja-ritual structure that includes the main deity and associated gods.

• Other major events include: Vasant Puja, Shravani Somavar (Mondays in the month of Shravan), Dussehra, Dipotsav, Sateeri Devi’s Jatra, Ravalnath Pratishtapana, anniversary days of consecration.

A place of peace and devotion.

Ravi Kumar

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Our Location

Nestled in a serene environment, our temple offers a peaceful retreat for worshippers and visitors alike, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquility.

Address

SHREE BHAGAVATI HALDONKARIN DEVASTHAN,

Khandola, post - marcel - Goa - 403107

Hours

9 AM - 7 PM