Minister inspects area, reviews arrangements
The annual anniversary festival at the submerged village of Kurdi in South Goa once again brings into focus the unique blend of cultural heritage, spirituality and environmental responsibility associated with the site.
Final preparations are currently underway for the grand annual Zatra celebration of Lord Someshwar scheduled to be held on May 24, with thousands of devotees expected to attend the event.
Social Welfare Minister and Sanguem MLA Subhash Phal Desai recently inspected the area and reviewed arrangements related to water supply, sanitation and other essential facilities to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
Around 45 years ago, the residents of Kurdi were displaced and the village was submerged for the construction of the Selaulim Dam, a project that today serves as a major source of drinking water for South Goa.
Every year, during the summer months when the water level recedes, the remnants of the ancestral village and the ancient Someshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Mahadev re-emerge, drawing devotees and visitors from across Goa and beyond.
Kurdi also holds immense cultural significance as the birthplace of renowned classical music legends Mogubai Kurdikar and Kishori Amonkar, whose contributions brought national recognition to the region.
The annual Zatra on May 24 is expected to attract thousands of devotees, including several Goans returning from cities such as Mumbai and Delhi, to offer prayers at the historic temple. In view of the large turnout, local authorities and volunteers have intensified preparations at the site.
At the same time, concerns have been raised over irresponsible tourism and pollution at the sacred site.
Locals and organisers have appealed to visitors to preserve the sanctity of Kurdi by refraining from partying, picnicking, and the consumption of alcohol or non-vegetarian food in the area, which is regarded as holy land by devotees.
The increasing presence of plastic waste and discarded soft drink bottles has also become a matter of concern. Visitors have been urged to carry back their garbage and help maintain cleanliness around the temple and village remains.
Local volunteers are actively engaged in cleanliness drives, while police personnel are monitoring the area and issuing warnings to maintain law and order.
Residents and organisers have appealed to tourists and devotees alike to visit Kurdi with respect and sensitivity, recognising the emotional sacrifice made by the displaced villagers and the deep spiritual significance attached to the submerged heritage site.
