subject: Know more about Temples of Goa [print this page] Know more about Temples of Goa Know more about Temples of Goa
In spite of the Portuguese influence which dominated Goa over the centuries, it's enthralling to see how such a large number of Hindu temples have survived here. Uprooted from place to place, the presiding deities were conserved and worshipped, sometimes, even in the houses of pujaris (priests), till they were eventually ensconced in their present day abodes.
Some old temples of Goa, which are renowned for their natural beauty and simple architecture, have certain basic features of being surrounded by coconut groves, betel nut trees and lakes of pure water. You are welcomed by the sentinels-the great pillars of light once you enter any of these temples.
Temples in Goa
Shri Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem
Built in 1738 by king Shahu of Satara, this is the largest and most famous temples in Goa. This temple is devoted to Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva. She also takes on a vicious form and is then referred to as Durga,as she is the most powerful of all goddess. In Sanskrit language, Shanta means peace. Thus by combining the two names, the name emerged as Shantadurga who has now become the Goddess of peace.
Shri Manguesh Temple, Priol
This temple is located 22 kms from Panaji at Priol in Ponda taluka. This temple is devoted to Lord Manguesh, a form of Shiva, which is known only in Goa. This temple is located to the south of the Zuari River where the present day village of Cortalim stands. However, when the Portuguese took over, the divine was shifted from its initial location to Priol where it remains today.
Shri Mahalsa Temple, Mardol
The presiding deity in this temple is Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. This deity was first located at a temple in the Salcete taluka. Conversely, in the 16th century, the troops of Adil Shah attacked the temple and razed it to the ground. The deity though was rescued and moved to its current location. In Goa, Goddess Mahalsa is accepted as Vishnu's companion.
Shri Naguesh Temple, Bandora
This temple, devoted to Lord Shiva, is one of the most ancient Goa temples. It was recognized in 1413, years before Alfonso de Albuquerque arrived in Goa. The assembly hall of the temple has pillars with complicated wood carvings. These carvings, which have been colorfully painted, narrate stories from the Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.
These are some of the temples to visit in Goa which would keep you on your feet by its marvelous architecture and ancient stories.
