The Only Temple of Devaki and Baby Krishna
Temple Structure
The Idol of Devaki
The most captivating feature is the idol of Mother Devaki. This idol, in traditional Gujarati style, is over 400 years old and made of black stone, with a golden exterior. The maternal affection on the face of the idol, where Devaki is holding baby Krishna on her lap, is heartwarming and captivating.
We know that Yashoda raised Krishna, so one might wonder how Devaki and baby Krishna are depicted together. There is a story that explains this.
Temple History
The Devaki-Krishna temple was originally located in the village of Chodan in Tiswadi taluka. During the Portuguese rule, it was first relocated to Mayem in Bicholim taluka. However, after Bicholim also came under Portuguese control, the temple was finally moved to Marcel. The present temple in Marcel was established in 1842, though the idol was relocated earlier and is believed to have been housed in a local Brahmin’s home until the temple was built.
Festivals at the Temple
Many festivals are celebrated at the Devaki-Krishna temple throughout the year. These include routine and special festivals such as Krishna Janmashtami, Chikhal Kalo, Govardhan Pratipada, Bali Pratipada, Laxmi Pujan, Rathasaptami, and the Dashami-Ekadashi festival during the month of Margashirsha. The main day of the Margashirsha festival falls on the 13th day of the bright fortnight. Among these, the Chikhal Kalo festival is particularly famous across Goa. During this festival, celebrated in the month of Ashadha, men and boys roll in the mud in the field in front of the temple. This event attracts many devotees from across Goa.
Janmashtami Celebrations at the Temple
The Janmashtami festival at the Devaki-Krishna temple is unique. The celebrations usually start around 8 PM. As the kirtan inside the temple narrates the story of Krishna’s birth, the same moment is reenacted. A man dressed in traditional attire plays the role of Devaki, with a veil held before him. The temple priests chant auspicious verses, and Krishna’s birth is symbolically performed. The veil is removed, and devotees gather to see the image of Devaki holding baby Krishna in her lap. Baby Krishna is then placed in a cradle, and two priests swing the cradle, passing baby Krishna between them, singing “Koni Govind ghya, Koni Gopal ghya”. This moment truly makes one feel like witnessing the birth of Krishna. Afterward, the priests bring baby Krishna to every devotee, touching the idol to their heads. The entire celebration is a memorable and heartfelt experience.
