Shantadurga, the Revered Goddess of All Goans
Shantadurga is the revered goddess of all Goans, with temples dedicated to her in many villages across Goa. One of the most famous temples, which attracts millions of devotees, is the Shantadurga Kunkalikarin temple in Fatorpa. You might wonder why the goddess is called Kunkalikarin when the village is named Fatorpa. Originally, Shantadurga was worshipped in Kunkalli, but during the Portuguese rule, many temples faced threats. Devotees relocated the goddess from Kunkalli to Fatorpa, near the original Shantadurga Fatorpekarin temple.
Shantadurga Kunkalikarin of Fatorpa is known as a highly awakened deity, attracting a large following. Her doors have been sought not only by Hindus but also by people of other faiths during times of crisis.
I first visited this temple after my marriage, to seek blessings from our family deities. Before that, I knew nothing about this village or the goddess. My husband’s family holds this temple in high reverence. During the Paush month, we observe a festival for Shantadurga, and I always visit the temple to fulfill my vows.
The Grand Deepastambha
Like the goddess, her temple is also magnificent. The Deepastambha (lamp tower) in front of the temple is the tallest and grandest in Asia. As we descend the steps leading to the temple, this tower catches our attention. Once we reach the bottom, its grandeur becomes even more evident. The tower, as wide as a room, features a beautiful wooden door, which is usually closed to devotees. The four sides of the tower are adorned with beautiful statues of various deities and saints. In front of the tower is a large Tulsi Vrindavan (holy basil plant).
Upon entering the temple, there is a small hall. Two staircases in this hall lead to a balcony facing the inner sanctum. Beyond the hall is another room where the goddess’s palanquin is kept. Crossing this room, we reach a spacious courtyard (chauk). Unlike other temples, there is no conventional assembly hall(Sabha mandap) here. The chauk is comparatively little bigger than other temples probably due to the large number of devotees. This chauk is always filled with devotees, especially on Sundays, the goddess’s day. After the annual fair(Jatra), the temple sees even longer queues.
The Structure of the Temple
As we enter the courtyard, the radiant statue of the goddess draws us in with its divine presence. Gazing at her peaceful face, we feel a sense of calm and contentment. The inner sanctum’s doors, arches, and silver-plated decorations are beautifully crafted. The main entrance’s woolen torans (decorative hangings) showcase exquisite craftsmanship. Above the main door, there is a large circle with a flower in the center, surrounded by twelve zodiac signs. The windows on either side, the balconies on three sides, and the rows of columns are typical of Goan temples, but without wooden elements. Below the balcony, the walls are adorned with various deities’ statues. The temple’s roof is conical and very high.
Inside the sanctum, to the right of the goddess, is a statue of Khandoba. It is believed that Khandoba brought Shantadurga to Kunkalli. Many people also seek the goddess’s blessings for their vows. The inner sanctum is always bustling with activity, with people offering their vows and rice to the goddess. Sparrows are a common sight in the temple, feeding on the rice grains offered by devotees.
The temple also has a small shrine dedicated to Shiva. The sanctum features a Shivalinga and a beautiful picture of Shiva on the wall behind. The outer walls are adorned with carvings of various deities and the Navagrahas (nine planets). The temple’s pinnacle is also intricately carved with statues.
The temple grounds are not enclosed, and the administrative buildings and hall are across the street.
Festivals and Rituals
Every Sunday, there is a palanquin procession of Shantadurga followed by a feast. Throughout the year, various religious programs take place, the most famous being the annual fair(Jatra). The Fatorpa fair, renowned across Goa, draws millions of devotees from different parts of the state.
The Temple’s Location
The village of Fatorpa, home to the Shantadurga Kunkalikarin temple, is in the Quepem taluka, about 20 kilometers from Margao.
Visiting this temple, a revered place of worship for many Goans, is a must for anyone seeking a divine experience.
