Description
Goa is famous for its exotic beaches, beautiful churches, and ancient forts, but there are also some famous temples here which are well-known. One such temple here is the Sri Saptakoteshwar Temple, located in Narve in Goa, this is one of the greatest tourist attractions on the coastal part of the Konkan Goa area. The method to reach this temple is by the Ferryboat from the Divarisland only. This is also a haven especially for the believers of the Shaivism cult in India. Thus this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a sacred and divine place for all the devotees.
History
The origin of the Sri Saptakoteshwar Shiva Temple dates back to the 12thcentury. This was the time when there was the rule of the Kadamba dynasty in Goa. Saptakoteshwar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva was the main deity of this dynasty and this temple was constructed by the Emperor for his wife as she too was a dedicated devotee of Saptakoteshwar, but the temple itself had seen huge ups and downs through the years when different rulers came and went and established their rule in Goa. Many times the temple was invaded, the idol and the Lingaas misplaced . In 1664, The Maratha King ShivajiRaje Bhosale, on one of his explorations ordered the reconstruction of the temple and the establishment of the Linga in its appropriate place. This is how the current structure of the temple was built.
Importance/Significance
This enormous temple flaunts artistic sculpture and exemplary architecture and in spite of being constructed centuries ago this temple still attracts the attention of devotees and tourists. Despite the exterior supremacy which has proved itself with all the odds of time and invasion, its divine affluence is still enlightening the path of its ardent aspirants. This temple is a classic example of the antique architecture and brilliant artistry with vast courtyards and many small shrines for all the other Shaivaite Gods. Also the main Linga which is worshipped in this temple is known as the “DharaLinga”. Its greatness and gleaming shine makes one to raise hands and worship it, and experience the sacred bliss within oneself.
Facts/Mythology
An interesting fact about the how the deity was named Saptakoteshwar is followed by a story. Once there were seven great saints were set out to worship Lord Shiva. They did this for a period of seven crore years after which Lord Shiva was impressed by them, and gave them his vision. Also to fulfill the wish of the sages he agreed to remain at that place in one of his forms. Thus this form of Lord Shiva was known as “Saptakoteshwar” where “Sapta” means 7, “Kot” means crores and “Eshwar” means God.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
A lot of festivals are celebrated in this temple with great enthusiasm and high spirits but the most prominent among them is the Gokulasthami. This is supposed to be the day when Lord Shiva blessed the sages in the form of Saptakoteshwar and appeared in front of them.
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