Mangesh Temple Goa

Info About Mangesh Temple Goa

The Mangest Temple is famous both for its history & architecture, and is counted among the most famous temples in Goa. It is located at Priol in Ponda Taluka, about 21 kilometers from Panaji, the capital city of Panaji. The area surrounding it is known as Mangueshi.

It is the only temple in Goa where Lord Shiva is known as Lord Mangesh.

Legend

There is a fascinating legend associated with the Mangesh Temple. It is interesting to know that the name Mangesh is not used for Lord Shiva anywhere else in India. According to the legend, Lord Shiva once lost everything in a game of dice with his wife Parvati.

After going into self imposed exile, he arrived in Goa. Goddess Parvati, who was missing her husband a lot, arrived in Goa looking for her husband. Lord Shiva, deciding to play a prank, attacked her in disguise. This led her to cry out, “Trahi Mam Girisha” (O Lord of Mountains, Save Me).

Lord Shiva, upon hearing the cry, reverted back in his original form, and thus, both of them were united. However, the cry for help became associated with Lord Shiva. A Linga was erected to honour the place where this legend occurred, and eventually, a temple was built in that very place.

History of Mangesh Temple

It is believed that the original temple was located at Kushasthali, once known as Cortalim. However, during the Portuguese inquisition, several temples were destroyed in Goa. To protect the temple from meeting a similar fate, the devotees transferred the Linga from the temple to Priol, which was then under the control of Adil Shah.

It was in 1560 when the shifting of the deity occurred. Since then, Mangest Temple was renovated twice, once under the reign of the Marathas & another time in 1890. The final renovation occurred in 1973 when a golden kalash (holy vessel) was fixed atop the dome.

Features of Mangesh Temple

The architecture of Mangesh Temple reflects a mix of Hindu, Christian and Muslim influences, and is illuminated during the annual Jatra, which is held in January. Domes, pilasters & balustrades are prominent features of the temple. Other notable features of the temple are:

• Multi Story Deepstambh (multi storied lamp tower)
• Chandelier (inside the main hall of the temple)
• Water Tank
• Canteen (which serves only vegetarian food)

Accommodation

Accommodation facilities are available in the temple.

Festivals Held at Mangesh Temple

The main festival celebrated in Mangesh Temple is the annual Jatra, held in January. The presiding deity is taken out in a palanquin & paraded in enormous chariots during the festival. It is attended by thousands of devotees.

Other festivals celebrated in Mangesh Temple are Rama Navami, Akshaya Tritiya, Anant Vritotsava, Navaratri, Dussera, Diwali, Magha Poornima Festival (Jatrotsav) and Mahashivratri.

How to reach?

Mangesh Temple is located in Mangeshi village in Priol in Ponda Taluka. It is situated:

• 21 kilometer from Panaji, the capital city of Goa.
• 1 kilometer from Mardol.
• 26 kilometers from Madgaon.