Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: In the heart of Vaddem, Vasco, opposite Goa Shipyard Limited, a rare and inspiring tradition continues to thrive. For generations, the Kavlekar and Kundaikar families have been worshipping two Ganesha idols under one roof at their ancestral residence, a practice that has stood as a powerful symbol of unity, cultural heritage, and unwavering devotion.
What makes this tradition unique is that despite having two separate idols, the families have never allowed differences to creep into their bond. Instead, they celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi and other auspicious occasions together, drawing the community’s admiration for the harmony they embody.
Tracing the origins of this custom, Dilip Kundaikar of the Kundaikar family recalls how his father, Anant Kundaikar, became part of the Kavlekar household from a very young age. “My father was a nephew of the Kavlekar family and grew up here in this very house. In those days, there was only one Ganesha idol, that of the Kavlekar family, which had been worshipped for more than 80 years,” said Dilip.
Over time, however, a curious turn of events led to the presence of two idols. Locals, perhaps feeling that both families should have their own deity, placed a Ganesha idol outside the house with a tag bearing the name of Dilip’s father, Anant Kundaikar. “This idol was meant for our family, but we never worshipped it initially because we felt there was no need to have two Ganesha idols under one roof. We did not perform pooja or visarjan and kept it away in the loft of our house,” Dilip recounted.
But fate seemed to have other plans. Within a few years, the families began experiencing hardships. Seeking guidance, they approached a priest. “The priest told us that the unattended idol in the loft might be the reason. He advised us to worship it and perform proper rituals. We followed his advice, did all the pooja and visarjan, and from that moment things began to change for the better,” said Dilip.
What began as a reluctant acceptance soon became a cherished tradition. “The following year, we decided to bring home our own Ganesha idol and celebrate Chaturthi. It has now been over 55 years that the Kundaikar family has been doing this. However, we always believed in celebrating together. That’s why, even with two idols, we decided to keep them in the same house — the Kavlekar residence — and celebrate jointly,” Dilip explained with pride.
Today, the presence of two idols in the same ancestral home stands as a testament to the deep bond shared by the families. The celebration is not about division but about unity, where devotion brings everyone under one roof, reaffirming faith and harmony.
“This tradition is not just about our families,” Dilip emphasized. “It’s about showing that devotion to God can bring people together, even when there are differences. For us, it is a blessing that we have been able to preserve this legacy for so many years.”
For the people of Vaddem and beyond, the sight of two Ganesha idols side by side during the festive season remains a powerful reminder that faith can unite, inspire, and keep traditions alive across generations.
