Near the Walkeshwar temple, Brahmins established a unique ritual for atonement (Prayashchit). This practice was well-known by the end of the previous century. Instead of the various difficult penances—like sacrifices, chanting, or charity—prescribed by ancient sages like Manu or Yajnavalkya, the Goan Brahmins who reached North Konkan devised a clever and simpler method to burn away sins and achieve a 'rebirth'.
This method involved a large hollowed-out rock with a narrow opening. A person would enter through the top and squeeze out through the bottom hole, symbolizing a new birth from the womb. Around 1757, the traveler Grose noted that Hindus went through this to be purified of sins, though he remarked that the hole seemed too narrow for a person of average size. However, many large-bodied people successfully passed through it. This rock gained great fame in nearby villages.
Kanhoji Angre reportedly passed through this hole once at night.
Edward Moor (1810) wrote that many pilgrims used it for rebirth.
Raghoba Peshwa stayed at Walkeshwar for some time and frequently passed through this rock.
It is even said Shivaji Maharaj passed through it.
This rock is called Shrigundi or Sirgundi. This is a Konkani word, and its original form is likely 'Shrigundo'.
Note - There is a temple dedicated to Shri Gundi Devi, restored in 2015 by the Governor.
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| Ruins of Temple in Shri Gundi Temple (courtesy: theworldofshan insta) |
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| Ruins of Temple in Shri Gundi Temple (courtesy: theworldofshan insta) |
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| Ruins of Temple in Shri Gundi Temple (courtesy: theworldofshan insta) |
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| Seems the ruins are worshipped as Shri Gundi Devi |
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