Following an invasion, the original Andheshwar Mahadev Temple was severely damaged. Stones from the temple were reportedly used to construct the retaining walls of Dudhiya Lake—a symbolic loss of the sacred into the secular.
Local legend tells of an attempt to remove the Shivalinga, but it proved too heavy to carry. Abandoned near Ancheli (5 km away), it was later discovered by a villager. A devoted Brahmin ensured its return to the original sanctified ground.
The Desai family of Gandevi led the reconstruction approximately 350 years ago, reviving this sacred site through faith and community effort.
Duis auctor ornare justo et viverra. Nulla lectus enim, non neque eget, eleifend dignissim quam. Cras cursus nisi eget odio dignissim, eu ullamcorper erat vestibulum. In nec pharetra nunc. Donec vestibulum fermentum quam, nec blandit elit porttitor non.
Duis auctor ornare justo et viverra. Nulla lectus enim, non neque eget, eleifend dignissim quam. Cras cursus nisi eget odio dignissim, eu ullamcorper erat vestibulum. In nec pharetra nunc. Donec vestibulum fermentum quam, nec blandit elit porttitor non.
A Temple Rooted in the Land
The reconstructed temple followed the vernacular style of South Gujarat—simple, functional, and deeply spiritual.
- Garbhagriha (Sanctum) on a square plan
- Domed roof symbolizing humility
- Mandapa (Assembly Hall) added later for gatherings
- Built using local materials and traditional techniques
Unlike grand temples elsewhere, this shrine reflected the soul of the region—tribal, coastal, and agrarian. It stood not for opulence, but for intimacy, devotion, and community spirit.
