Shri Damodar Temple, Goa

Address

Zambaulim, Quepem,

Goa 403705

Moolavar

Lord Damodar (Lord Shiva)

Introduction

Shri Damodar Temple, also known as Shri Damodara Sansthaan, is located on the bank of the Kushawati River near the village of Zambaulim, 22 km from Margao, on the border of Quepem region (Quepem taluk) in southern Goa. This temple houses a celebrated murti of Lord Shiva incarnated as Lord Damodar.

Puranic Significance:

Historical Background: Originally, the deity was enshrined in a temple in Mathagam (now Madgaon or Margao), where the Holy Spirit Church stands today. Due to the Portuguese campaign against temples in Sasashti Taluka in 1567, the local deities, including Shree Ramnath, Damodar, Laxmi-Narayan, Chamundeshwari, Mahakali, and Mahesh, were moved to Zambaulim. The Desais of Rivona assisted the Mahajans by providing land for the construction of new temples.
Historical Context: Before the Portuguese conquest, Margao was a prosperous city with well-constructed buildings, including the renowned Damodar temple. According to Portuguese chroniclers, the temple was so large and sturdy that it was used as a military post by invaders.
Legend of Makaji Damodar: A local tradition recounts that the temple was consecrated in memory of a native named Makaji Damodar, who, along with his newly married wife, met a tragic end at the site. In recognition of his devotion, he was honored as a deity. The original temple, along with nine others in the village, was destroyed by Diogo Rodrigues, the captain of Rachol. The temple’s idol was later relocated to Zambaulim.

Special Features:

Deities: The temple is not only home to Lord Damodar but also honors other deities such as Chamundeshwari (a fierce form of Shakti), Mahakali (the goddess of time and death, considered the consort of Shiva), and Mahesha (another form of Lord Shiva).
Community: The Shree Damodar Temple is associated with the Gowda Saraswath Brahmins (GSB) community. Accommodation facilities for community members are available within the temple complex.

Festivals:

Shigmo: The main festival celebrated at the Shri Damodar Temple is Shigmo, a Goan spring festival of colors that lasts for a week. The festival includes the Panair, a folkloric show where participants exchange gulals (colored powders) and organize various feasts.
Other Festivals: The temple also observes Kartik Poornima, Ashwin Poornima, and Mahashivratri, with special pujas and celebrations during these occasions.