In the serene and picturesque landscape of Goa, known for its vibrant beaches and bustling markets, lies a lesser-known but equally fascinating historical spot – the submerged village of Curdi (Kurdi). This village, once a thriving community, now spends most of the year hidden beneath the waters of the Salaulim Dam. For eleven months, Curdi remains an underwater relic, but come April and May, its remnants rise above the water, revealing a haunting yet captivating glimpse into the past. One of the most notable landmarks that emerge during this period is the Shree Someshwar Temple, standing as a resilient testament to the village’s rich cultural heritage.
Table of Contents
The Story of Curdi
The tale of Curdi is a poignant one, marked by displacement and resilience. The village, located in the Sanguem taluka of South Goa, was once home to a vibrant community. However, the construction of the Salaulim Dam in the late 1970s necessitated the relocation of the entire village. The dam, crucial for providing water to large parts of South Goa and supporting irrigation, drinking water supply, and industrial use, led to the submergence of Curdi under its reservoir.
Life Before the Dam
Before its submersion, Curdi was a thriving village with a rich cultural and social life. The villagers were primarily engaged in agriculture, fishing, and small-scale trade. The village was self-sufficient, with schools, temples, and community centers serving as the heart of social interaction. The Shree Someshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Holy Cross Chapel, a place of Christian worship, were significant spiritual centers for the villagers and sites of numerous local festivals and rituals.
The Submergence and Relocation
The decision to build the Salaulim Dam brought a wave of change and uncertainty to Curdi. The villagers were relocated to nearby areas, with the government providing them compensation and land in alternate locations. Despite the relocation, many former residents of Curdi still maintain a deep emotional connection to their ancestral village. Every year, they return during the dry months when the waters recede to pay homage to their roots and reminisce about the life they once had.
The Annual Re-Emergence
April and May are special months for the former residents of Curdi and curious visitors alike. As the water levels of the Salaulim reservoir drop, the submerged village begins to re-emerge. The sight is surreal – remnants of old houses, pathways, and the iconic Shree Someshwar Temple slowly come into view, creating a landscape that is both eerie and enchanting.
The Shree Someshwar Temple, with its ancient architecture, stands partially submerged, a stark reminder of the village’s past. The temple becomes a focal point for rituals and gatherings. Former residents and their descendants gather here to offer prayers, perform rituals, and celebrate their heritage. It is a time of reflection, memory, and cultural revival.
Shree Someshwar Temple: A Symbol of Resilience
The Shree Someshwar Temple is not just a religious site; it symbolizes the resilience and enduring spirit of the Curdi community. The temple’s partial submersion and re-emergence create a powerful image of survival and continuity. Despite the challenges and the passage of time, the temple remains a steadfast link to the past, bridging the gap between the old and new generations.
The temple’s architecture, featuring intricate carvings and traditional designs, offers insights into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region. Visitors are often struck by the temple’s beauty and the serene atmosphere that surrounds it, making it a unique spot for historical exploration and spiritual reflection.
The Experience of Visiting Curdi
Visiting Curdi during the months it emerges is a unique experience. The journey to the submerged village is like a journey back in time. As you walk through the partially revealed structures, you can almost hear the echoes of the past – children playing, villagers chatting, and the vibrant sounds of daily life. The landscape, a mix of water and land, creates a mystical ambiance that captivates the imagination.
For those interested in history, culture, and nature, Curdi offers a rare opportunity to witness a living history lesson. The village serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for progress and the enduring human spirit that cherishes and preserves its heritage against all odds.
The submerged village of Curdi, with its annual re-emergence and the resilient Shree Someshwar Temple and Holy Cross Chapel, is a hidden gem in Goa’s rich tapestry of historical sites. It tells a story of displacement and resilience, of a community’s enduring connection to its roots, and of the timeless beauty of cultural heritage. Visiting Curdi is not just about witnessing a submerged village rise from the waters; it is about experiencing a living narrative of history, memory, and tradition.
As Goa continues to attract tourists from around the world, places like Curdi remind us of the deeper, often overlooked stories that lie beneath the surface. The village of Curdi and its iconic religious structures stand as a testament to the power of memory and the resilience of cultural identity, inviting us all to explore and honor the past while moving forward into the future.