Shri Kamakshi Temple, Goa

Another spectacular creation, the temple of Shri Kamakshi stands in amazing surroundings which adds to its beauty and charm. A divine ambiance is all that a pilgrim needs when he comes this far. Unlike other famous temples in Goa, Kamakshi Temple is the one that abodes a water tank in its sanctum. The splendid beauty and the divinity of the place attract tourists from all over Goa.

Goddess Kamakshi is the incarnation of the Universal Mother Goddess

History

Kamakshi comes from the conjunction of three words – Ka, Ma & Aksh. Ka means Saraswati, Ma means Lakshmi and Aksh means eyes. She is whose eyes are Lakshmi & Saraswati.

Kamakshi Temple at Kanchi is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in the country, a very important Shakti Peeth. This is where the Nabhi or the Navel of the Goddess Sati had fallen when Shiva was taking around her body. It is also believed to be the Nabhisthan or the center of the earth or at least the eastern hemisphere.

It is believed that after the Devi took birth to kill the Asur Bhandasur, she took the Kanya Swarup and sat in this temple. The idol is supposed to be Swayambhu which means it was not created but appeared. She is believed to be in the temple in three Swarupas – Sthula, Sukshama, and Shunya.

Architecture

The Shri Kamakshi Temple along with other Hindu temples in Goa has a unique and different rigid styled architecture with a blend of Muslim, Mughal, and Portuguese art.

The temple is built facing the eastern side and has a gate leading to the massive temple complex known as Mahadwar. The main shrine comprises a two stories Shikhara or an octagonal tower and can be reached by a series of stairs. A Kalash or a Golden vase is kept on the Shikhara. The sanctum sanctorum comprises Sri Kamakshi Devi's idol standing in its most splendid form. The temple has a huge assembly hall which is a typical feature of any Hindu temple in India. A noteworthy feature seen in all Goan temples is the Deepastamba or lamp towers and is not an exception in this temple as well. An open lawn is present which is utilized for special rituals along with a tank of holy water. The water from the tank is considered sacred and can remove sin and illness from people who have a strong belief.