The Flight of Gods 28. Vitthala Temple, Sancolem

The Flight of Gods

by Mohan Pai

Sri Vitthala Temple

Sancolem

 

 

The worship of Vitthala in Goa probably started during the latter part of the Goa Kadamba period. The stone inscription of 1284 AD from Vitthala temple at Pandharpur records the donation made by the Lad family of Goa. The ‘warkari’ tradition which was popular in Maharashtra was also practised in Goa.
Ranes of Sattari are the devotees of Vitthala.

 

The Mantap – photo by Mohan Pai

Reconstructed in 1942 A.D., the temple incorporated North Indian style of architecture. Though sanctum-sanctorium was left untouched and the main festivity at the temple was held during nine days preceding Chairtra Purnima.

The Temple Complex – photo by Mohan Pai

Major attractions of Sri Vitthala Temple are an exquisitely carved wooden chariot symbolizing the chariot of Arjuna of Mahabharata which is driven by the Lord Krishna in the temple complex.

Tulasi Vrindavan – photo by Mohan Pai

The Flight of Gods 20. Datta Mandir, Sancolem

The Flight of Gods
by Mohan Pai

Sri Datta Mandir

Sancolem

 

Gateway to Datta Mandir

 With the growing atmosphere of tolerance, or indifference by the Portugese authorities many Hindu shrines and temples appeared in the late 19th century over the length and breadth of the New Conquests.The Temple Complex – photo by Mohan Pai

Sri Datta Mandir at Sancolem, about 6 kms from Bicholim was one of the temples built during this period (1882). It follows the more conventional design and is built on fairly traditional lines but with a dome.

The Mantap – photo by Mohan Pai

 

The temple is situated near a river in wooded surroundings. There are two old Audumbar trees at the entrance to the courtyard.

 

photo by Mohan Pai

Datta Jayanti, the main annual festival of the temple is held in December and attracts devotees from all over Goa.

Shri Datta Guru’s animals in marble – photo by Mohan Pai