THE LEGEND OF THE SEVEN DIVINE SIBLINGS OF GOA
Long ago, when the earth was still untouched by modern civilisation and the forests of Goa were dense and sacred, seven divine siblings—seven sisters and one brother, according to popular folklore—descended upon the land. They were manifestations of divine power, each embodying a unique aspect of nature, spirit, and protection.
The Siblings Were:
1. Lairai – The fierce and fearless one
2. Kelbai – The protector of fertility and nature
3. Sateri – The serene guardian of balance
4. Mahamaya – The embodiment of cosmic wisdom
5. Morjai – The warrior guardian of the coastal lands
6. Mirabai (Milagres Saibinn) – The spiritual and compassionate sister
7. Ajadevi / Adiadipa – The mysterious and devoted sister who vanished
8. Khetoba / Betal (Brother) – The powerful guardian spirit
A Time of Unity
In their early days, the siblings lived together harmoniously in a forested region, offering blessings to those who respected the land and its spirits. They made a pact: they would each take a different corner of Goa to protect and nurture its people. But before they separated, a quarrel broke out—some say between Lairai and her brother Khetoba.
Lairai, strong-willed and radiant, wished to perform the Agnidivya—a sacred fire-walking ritual. Her brother and some sisters cautioned her against it, fearing it would consume her. But Lairai, resolute and brave, insisted. This disagreement caused emotional turmoil, and the siblings decided to part ways, each settling in different villages across Goa.
The Separation
Lairai chose Shirgao, nestled in the hills, where she could perform her fiery ritual and be close to devoted worshippers.
Kelbai moved to Mulgao, where she became a guardian of crops and children.
Sateri settled in Kavalem or Curdi, associated with tranquil power and household protection.
Mahamaya went to Mayem, embodying knowledge and spiritual insight.
Morjai took her place by the coast in Morjim, standing tall as a protector against invaders.
Mirabai, during Portuguese colonisation, was converted to Christianity and became Milagres Saibinn, choosing Mapusa as her home and blessing all who came to her, regardless of faith.
Ajadevi / Adiadipa, stricken by grief or duty, disappeared, believed to have committed sati (ritual self-immolation) and is no longer actively worshipped.
Khetoba, the brother, became the guardian deity of crossroads and cremation grounds, often worshipped as Betal.
A Lasting Bond
Though separated by time, space, and even religion, the bond between the sisters endured. Every year, during the feasts and festivals, ritual offerings are exchanged between their shrines:
During Lairai’s Zatra in Shirgao, jasmine flowers (mogrim) are sent from Milagres Saibinn’s church in Mapusa.
In return, coconut oil and candles are sent from Lairai’s temple to Milagres during her feast.
These gestures honour their eternal kinship and symbolise unity despite difference—a powerful lesson in Goa’s rich tradition of interfaith harmony.
There may be slight variations in this story. But this legend isn't just folklore. It’s a deep reflection of:
Goa’s cultural fabric, where Hindu and Christian beliefs intersect,
Divine femininity, in its many forms—fiery, gentle, protective, wise,
A message of unity beyond religious boundaries, rooted in shared heritage.
