Keri: Khodiye village in Sattari stands out among others in Goa for its annual ritualistic wedding of devchar (a guardian spirit believed to be existing in village by the locals) in the month of Paush — the 10the month of the lunar calendar, following which the villagers are free to perform marriage ceremonies of their near and dear ones.Khodiye celebrates the holy spirit, Karadicho Aajo, who is believed to have his presence on a centuries-old tree locally known as Ghoting (terminalia bellerica). He is also regarded as the protector of the village.Pundalik Tukaram Gaonkar, 72, a local from Khodiye, said, “Marriages will be solemnised in our village only after the annual ritualistic wedding of devchar is performed. In the month of Paush, it is performed either on a Sunday or on a Wednesday. The ceremony is held at Karadi in sacred grove of indigenous trees.Clay images of the couple representing bride and groom, along with necessary earthen pots, are sourced from the potters of Advai village. Their replicas are adorned with distinct headgears. Clay images of tortoise, crocodile, frog, lizard, bird, cow are placed at the sacred place. Items like comb, mirror, garland of Aboli (Crosendra) flowers are offered to the bride.The entire ceremony is held by following Hindu marriage rituals including Mangal Ashtaks (sacred hymns). On the occasion, a sweet dish is cooked using rice, jaggery and dry coconuts. It is then distributed among those present.Villager Sanjay Tendulkar said, “We have to compulsorily organise this marriage ceremony. If we fail to hold it, then we are exposed to the wrath of the holy spirit.” This year, Suresh Gaonkar – a local, performed the rituals.Every year, villagers assemble at Karadi, which lies on the confluence of two streams emanating from Devasu and Kumbharkhan, with the blessings of Sateri and Sasan deities.Before the onset of iron ore mining, this village solely relied on the agro-horticultural crops and had faith in the holy spirit who they believe come to their rescue in times of emergencies.
