At Kavlem in Goa stands the Shantadurga temple, one of the most revered Goan shrines, dedicated to the Goddess as Shantadurga — 'the Durga of peace.' Her beloved legend tells that when Shiva and Vishnu once fought a terrible battle, the Goddess appeared between them and made peace, holding each by the hand — and so she is worshipped as the Mother who brings harmony and calm.
Rebuilt in the elegant Goan temple style with a white tower and lamp-tower, and set amid green hills, the temple is the deity of many Gaud Saraswat Brahmin families. Shantadurga of Kavlem draws devotees from across Goa, and is among the most beloved shrines of the coast.
