Sonwada Village: 32-Acre Lake, History & Khodiyar Mata Sonwada Village Near Pardi Showcases Faith and Nature
Sonwada Village, located in Pardi taluka of Valsad district, is a unique rural settlement known for its deep-rooted faith in Khodiyar Mata, rich natural beauty, and a proud historical legacy. Nestled under the spiritual presence of Khodiyar Mata, Sonwada Village is widely regarded as a sacred and awakened religious place by devotees from nearby regions. Over the years, the village has evolved into a remarkable example of how tradition, nature, agriculture, and history can coexist in harmony.
According to local folklore, the ancestors of Sonwada Village migrated from the Gundlav area and settled here generations ago. It is believed that the village derived its name “Sonwada” from the names of nearby villages associated with their earlier settlement. While Sonwada Village is an important religious destination today, it has also been a place of significance since ancient times due to its strategic location and cultural relevance.
At the heart of Sonwada Village stands the revered temple of Khodiyar Mata, which is considered the soul of the village. The temple holds immense religious importance, and devotees from surrounding villages regularly visit to seek blessings. In earlier times, when Jain pilgrims traveled in groups toward Nashik, a traditional footpath passed through Sonwada Village. This route made the village an essential resting point for pilgrims, further strengthening its spiritual importance. Even today, elders recall stories of travelers and saints who once passed through Sonwada, adding to its sacred identity.
One of the most striking features of Sonwada Village is its massive and picturesque lake spread across nearly 32 acres. This large water body remains filled throughout the year and serves as a lifeline for the village. The lake enhances the natural beauty of Sonwada Village and plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture and daily life. During blooming seasons, pink lotus flowers can be seen floating across the lake, creating a mesmerizing visual that attracts visitors and photographers alike.
The 32-acre lake of Sonwada Village is also a haven for birds. With changing seasons, various species of birds migrate to the lake, turning it into an attraction for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. The peaceful rural atmosphere, combined with scenic water views and birdlife, gives Sonwada Village a distinct identity that sets it apart from surrounding areas.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Sonwada Village. As noted by Mamtaben Tejasbhai Nayak, author of the book Anavil Asmita ane Gamdano Varso, and supported by information shared by Pankajbhai Raghunathji Desai, farmers in Sonwada Village primarily cultivate rice, wheat, and sugarcane. These crops form the foundation of the village’s economy. In addition, Sonwada Village is well known for its bitter papdi beans and the locally prepared ubadiyu made from them, which is highly appreciated for its taste.
Another important agricultural highlight of Sonwada Village is the large-scale cultivation of Hapus mangoes. The mango orchards contribute significantly to farmers’ income and have helped the village gain recognition beyond the region. The combination of fertile land, water availability from the lake, and traditional farming knowledge has sustained Sonwada Village for decades.
Cultural traditions and local commerce also define the character of Sonwada Village. One of the oldest and most iconic establishments in the village is Ravia Patel’s shop, which continues to serve the community even today. The shop is famous for items like rakdi used during childbirth rituals and Desai vada flour. These products are not only popular within Sonwada Village but are also supplied to Mumbai based on orders. This shop is seen as a symbol of trust, tradition, and continuity in village life.
Sonwada Village also holds a proud place in post-independence history. In 1958, the village witnessed its first major satyagraha after India’s independence. Under the leadership of the late Ishwarbhai Desai and with the support of Uttambhai Patel, a Ghasiya Khedut movement was organized. This historic movement took place on land owned by the late Gandabhai Khandubhai Desai and the late Mohanbhai Khandubhai Desai. During this agitation, the two brothers courageously drove away a mob of nearly 300 to 400 people, an event that is still remembered with pride by villagers.
A deeply respected legend associated with Sonwada Village is the story of “Kahno Kuvo.” Long ago, a Jain youth named Karsan was traveling with a pilgrimage group and halted in Sonwada Village for the night. In his dream, Khodiyar Mata appeared and told him that travelers faced severe water shortages in the village. She instructed him to dig a well there, promising that he would earn spiritual merit for doing so. Acting on this divine message, Karsan stopped his pilgrimage and arranged for a well to be dug. This well still exists today and is known as Kahno Kuvo, named after Karsan, and remains a symbol of faith and service.
Sonwada Village thus represents a rare blend of devotion, natural beauty, agricultural prosperity, historical courage, and living traditions. Under the protective presence of Khodiyar Mata, Sonwada Village continues to preserve its identity while moving forward with pride. Its lake, fields, legends, and people together create a timeless rural heritage that remains deeply respected across the region.
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📌 Note:
This article is published on OurVapi.com The information presented is based on public sources, local inputs, field observations, and the author’s independent assessment. It is intended to be useful primarily for readers from Vapi, Valsad, Umbergaon, Sarigam, Bhilad, Silvassa, Daman, and nearby regions.
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