The legend of this temple dates back to the times of Mahabharata. When a prophecy declared that Devaki's eighth son would kill Kansa, the cruel king of Mathura, Devaki exchanged the new born Krishna with Yashoda's daughter and saved Krishna from the wrath of Kansa. Years later when Devaki met Krishna in Gomanchal Parvat (mountain) in Goa, she could not recognize her grown up boy. Thus, Krishna transformed himself as an infant and this divine incident of mother and son union is celebrated here. Though most temples around the world depict Krishna with his foster mother Yashoda, this temple depicts Devaki with a toddler Krishna. Locals might tell you that this is one of a kind temple in the country.

As with other Hindu temples in the region, the idol in this temple faced a rescue act from the Portuguese destruction. It was moved from its original location Chorao Island in Tiswadi taluka near Panaji to nearby Bicholim area and then finally brought to Marcel in Ponda. Besides the presiding deity, the temple also hosts other deities rescued in a similar fashion and hence is known as a site that brings people together from different communities.

Here's a tip:
If you seek driving directions from locals, ask for Mashel. That is how Marcel is known locally.