Rakhandar

Protector spirits called ‘Devchars’ n goa, are known to protect village boundaries from the entry of evil spirits. They are also known as ‘Rakhandars’, ‘Kshetrapal’ or ‘Mahapurush’. A Devchar is believed to be a giant, wearing a white ‘Dhoti’ with a ‘Kambal’ on his shoulder and a bamboo stick in his hand. He embodies the complete incarnation of Devchar/RakhandarThey are offered roosters, local liquor and ‘beedis’ by the locals as a token for protecting them from the evil spirits. Every village has a protector spirit or ‘Rakhandar’ who guards their locality.  

 A holy place of Kattamgal Dada is situated near Farmagudi. Shree Kattamgal Dada is a village protector who protects the village from pain. Thousands of devotees from across the country come to Goa to visit Shree Kattamgal Dada and seek blessings. The villagers of Gaunem and Nagueshi in Bandora celebrate this unique tradition. In years past, agriculture had been a thriving tradition in this region. A devastating disease swept through the crops, causing widespread rot and decay. The locals made a heartfelt vow to the deity, promising to offer ‘Godshe’-is made up of moong, rice, jaggery and coconut; sweet dish in exchange of the restoration of their fertile land. Within a few months, the crops had fully recovered, the farmer experienced a surge in productivity and marked by abundant harvests. Thereafter, the offering of godshe were made a permanent part of the village’s customs. In ‘Shravan’ month they celebrate ‘Godshe Ustav’ which means villagers offer Godshe to the people every Sunday, for four consecutive weeks as the part of their tradition. 

 The legend of Rakhandar inspires us to cultivate a sense of reverence and responsibility towards our communities, our traditions, and the natural world, ensuring a brighter, more harmonious future for all.  

Name: Asmani Khandolkar 

Roll no: 2402015