The village of colours
The district of Ponda has a pleasant, beautiful village called Bandode. It is everything you imagine and have seen in movies. Quiet, green, and calm. But its aura is not the only defining factor. It also has a rich cultural history. If you ever step into the village you will find conventional Goan houses drenched in vibrant colours and delicate wood carvings. This is where you will find Shree Mahalaxmi Temple.
The story of two idols
This Hindu temple was established in the 19th century and was dedicated to the deity of Shri Mahalaxmi. Apart from the presiding deity, Shree Saunsthan Mahalaxmi temple also has the deities of Shree Narayan Purushram, Shree Narayan Dev, Shree Rawalnath, and Shree Baleshwar.
It was built in the year 1413, based on the stone placard carved during the rule of Nanjan Gosavi Pratihast over Goa. During this time, there was another temple with the same name in the town of Colva in Salcette. There is an interesting story about idol stealing that surrounds this place. It is said that two devotees Safto and Fato, smuggled the idol out and transported her to the town of Talauli near Ponda. The people revere and worship the feet marks of the Goddess even today. Later on, the idol was taken to Bandode from Colva and kept near the existing idol.
That is why today you see two idols of Mahalaxmi. The amazing fact is that you will also find the idols of Safto and Fato who rescued the Goddess from Colva. On the day of Ramnavami, the rescued idol of Colva is taken out on a procession by sitting in a palanquin and a chariot. The next day, the second idol is also taken out and paraded with much fanfare and celebration.