Mahalasa Temple, also known as Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalasa, an incarnation of Vishnu as Mohini. It is located in Mardol, a village in Ponda, Goa, India.
History:
The deity was originally housed in a temple in Verna, Goa. However, when the Portuguese conquered Goa, the temple was destroyed. The idol was smuggled to Mardol, which was outside Portuguese territory, and a new temple was built there in 1567.
Architecture:
The temple is built in the traditional Hindu style of architecture, with a few unique features. The temple has a tall, seven-storied deepmal or lamp tower, which is a common feature in Goan temples. It also has a large brass bell, which was used in the past for administering justice. The temple's courtyard is spacious and well-maintained, with a tulsi plant in the center. The main shrine houses the idol of Goddess Mahalasa, which is made of black stone. The idol is adorned with jewelry and clothes, and it is said to have different expressions at different times of the day.
Deity:
Goddess Mahalasa is worshipped as an independent goddess, as well as the consort of Khandoba, a form of Shiva. She is depicted with four arms, holding a trishul, a sword, a severed head, and a drinking bowl. She is also shown standing on a demon, with a tiger licking the blood from the severed head.
Festivals:
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, which is the most important festival. During Navratri, the temple is decorated and illuminated, and special pujas and aartis are performed. Another important festival is the annual jatra, which is a fair that attracts thousands of devotees from all over Goa.
Other Information:
The temple is open to visitors from 6:30 AM to 8:30 PM. There is no entry fee. However, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Photography is allowed inside the temple, but videography is prohibited. The temple also has a guesthouse where visitors can stay.
How to Reach:
The temple is located in Mardol, which is about 22 km from Panaji, the capital of Goa. It is well-connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi. The nearest railway station is Karmali, which is about 15 km from Mardol. The nearest airport is Dabolim, which is about 30 km from Mardol.