Goa's Bandiantulo Khuris, a quiet place where hope finds a voice

ROUELLA BARRETO

In a quiet corner of Cortalim, South Goa, stands a cross that has been part of people’s lives for generations. The cross is locally known as the Bandiantulo Khuris or the Miraculous Holy Cross.

This sacred space — once just a small cross in the middle of a field — has become a powerful symbol of faith, drawing people from all walks of life.

What began with barely ten visitors has now grown into a gathering of hundreds of people every Sunday. People come from near and far, across faiths and beliefs, to pray, to hope, and to give thanks at the khuris.

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“There’s no official date for when the cross was placed,” says Augustinho Xavier, one of the members of the Society of Bandiantulo Khuris. “But we know it’s been here for over a hundred years. It was only in 1943 that a committee was formed to take care of the place.”

Among those who serve the cross is Remedios Vaz, a familiar voice to those who attend the Sunday service.

“It’s been 31 years since I started serving here,” he says. “I had stopped for a while, and I felt the difference in my life. I knew I had to come back. This place brings peace to me like none other.”

CONNECTED TO THE CROSS: Some of the members of the Society of Bandiantulo Khuris, who serve at the cross and keep the space ready for those who visit.

Each Sunday, Remedios leads the prayers, speaking for those present, and those who cannot make it. He is joined by Manuel P F Silva, Francisco Vaz, Saverin, and others who quietly prepare the space, ensuring that it remains a place of peace and reflection.

The prayers offered here range from pleas for jobs and better health to family struggles and property disputes. And, whenever those prayers are answered, people return to the cross to offer ladainhas (litanies) to show their gratitude.

Each Sunday, Remedios leads the prayers, speaking for those present, and those who cannot make it.

One of the most heartfelt acts of devotion is the pouring of oil into the lamp near the cross. Though the act is quiet, the intention is strong.

“People pour oil and pray, asking for whatever’s in their hearts,” says Remedios. “It’s become a tradition here, now. People believe the flame carries their prayers.”

FLICKER OF HOPE: The lamp at the Bandiantulo Khuris glows with quiet prayers and promises.

Alongside oil, flowers are offered to Mother Mary — not left to wilt, but removed with love after the prayers.

“The flowers offered here are mogachi fula — flowers of love, devoted to Mother Mary,” says Remedios. “They’re not just decorations. They carry feelings and faith.”

The stories that surround the Khuris are many. A couple who couldn’t conceive now returns every year with their child. People fighting illness, those battling financial troubles or family disputes — all have come here, prayed, and found peace.

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“We don’t promise miracles. But people come with faith, and many leave with joy,” says Remedios Vaz.

Still, there’s one concern that gently lingers — the absence of young volunteers.

“Many of today’s youth are caught up in their busy lives. Not many come forward to serve,” admits Agustinho. “But we have hope. Many of us left and returned. We believe others will, too.”

Augustinho Xavier, member of the society of Bandiantulo KhurisMany of today’s youth are caught up in their busy lives. Not many come forward to serve, but we have hope. Many of us left and returned. We believe others will, too.

Even so, the cross continues to draw people. Every week, new faces join the old ones. Some come in silence, some in sorrow, some in celebration. All are welcomed in the same manner.

The Bandiantulo Khuris stands as a place quietly present, offering space for prayer, reflection and peace.

For those who wish to visit, Bandiantulo Khuris in Cortalim is open every Sunday — in the morning (10 am to 12.30 pm) and evening (4 pm to 6 pm).