- Kali
Kalika Devi temple
- Kasarpal Bicholim,Goa
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Overview
Mahamaya Kalika Saunsthan is a temple complex in Kansarpal village of Bicholim taluka in the state of Goa, India. The presiding deity of the temple is Kali worshipped in the form of Mahamaya. The goddess Kali, the terrible and cruel, is worshiped with blood sacrifice in most parts of India, in Goa however the fierce invocation of the deity was never popular. As per the regional myths after killing the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha, the deity's anger was soothed and the deity manifested herself in a peaceful (Shanta), gentle (Soumya) form, which is very popular in Goa.
About the deity
The main idol in the sanctum sanctorum is more than 800 years old and is a masterpiece of Kadamba sculptures. The deity is four armed, shows each hand carrying variously a sword(Khadga), a trident (trishul), a Shield(Khetaka) and a skull bowl (Kapala), her mount lion, can be seen at her feet.
About the Temple
The deity might have been worshiped by the copper-smiths(Kansars) of the village originally.The folk tradition believes that this temple might have been constructed during the Chandragupta Vikramaditya’s time. A Copper-plate or tambiapotto (in Konkani) dated 1436 AD, which is in the possession of the Archaeology department of Goa, mentions among various other things the following:
“... The Brahmin Devasharma of Kashyapa Gotra, hailing from the region bathed by river Janhavi, fleeing from the invasion of the Turukshas(Muslims), came to Konkan...being always honoured by the King of the Konkan.
...His descendant Nagadeva, a worshiper of Shiva went to Pallika(Kasarpal)and in presence of Mahajanas, and the copper-smiths of the village, gave on the first day of the month Chaitra of shri Nala of shalivahana era 1358, the village of Varandem(which includes Kasarpal) as nomoxim(gift)to the son of Rupa sheti, named Lakshman Sheti, who was born by the grace of Devi.”
Kalamba seems to be another name of the deity though, the name Kalika appears in the copper-plate inscription mentioned above. During Goa Inquisition, when Goa was in turmoil, most of the people of Daivajna caste took refuge in the temple premises to elude conversion to Roman Catholicism and prosecution.
Legend and Stories
As per Indian mythology, having killed the devil demons called Shumbha and Nishumbha, the fury of goddess Shakti calmed down. The Devi at peace and mingling with solace was enshrined at this religious hub by the ardent Hindu kings.
Festivals
The Shishirotsav of Kasarpal temple attracts pilgrims from Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka. It is a 10-day-long celebration, includes procession of deities in different Vahanas, and various other rites like Ganga Pujan, Homa, Dhwajarohana, Gulalotsava, Rathotsava etc. An orchestra known as Suvari is played during the festival which includes musical instruments Ghumot,Kasale, cymbals and Shehnai. Other important festivals are Ratha Saptami, Navaratri, Vasant Puja, Akshay Tritiya, Dasara,Avali Bhojan. Silver Palanquin procession of the deity on every Chaturdashi of the dark fortnight of Hindu lunar calendar is also a major attraction
How to reach Kalika Devi temple
The nearest Bus stop is in Kasarpal. The nearest railway station is located at Thivim. The nearest airport is Goa International Airport.
Temple Address
Kalika Devi temple,
Kasarpal Bicholim,
Latambarcem,
Goa - 403503
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- Protection from evil
- Salvation
- Destruction of ego
- Liberation
Shlokas
Jayantii Manggalaa Kaalii Bhadrakaalii Kapaalinii Durgaa Shivaa Kssamaa Dhaatrii Svaahaa Svadhaa Namostu Te
Meaning -We salute the Devi Kali, who is always victorious and always auspicious, we offer salutations to Bhadrakali Devi who wears a skull garland, we salute Shiva's consort and the embodiment of self-control and supports all beings, Devi Durga, who is Swaha as well as Swadha. We offer our salutations to you.
Om Maha Kalyai Ca Vidmahe Smasana Vasinyai Ca Dhimahi Tanno Kali Prachodayat
Meaning -Om the great Goddess Kali who stays in the ocean of life and burial grounds, we focus our energies on you, may you grant us our wishes and bless us
Kaalika Kalahey Gorey Paathuthvaam Parameshwari Mandapey Thathra Mathangi Thatha Sowmya Swayamwarey
Meaning -Let the ever charming, mother of the universe, protect us and stay in this mandap and bestow her blessing on us as mother Mathangi.
Katyayani Mahamaye Mahayoginyadheeshwari Nandgopsutam Devipatim Me Kuru Te Namah
Meaning -Oh Goddess Katyayani, the great vigour of the Lord, the owner of great magical power and the mighty one who controls all, please make the son of Nanda Maharaj my husband. I offer my salutations to you.
Timings
The temple is open from 5.00 AM and 10.00 PM.