Description
Context:
In a terrible incident, at least six individuals perished. In contrast, more than 70 others sustained injuries following a stampede in the early hours of Saturday in Shirgaon village, Bicholim, North Goa, during the annual Lairai Jatra procession at the Shree Lairai Devi shrine.
Lairai Devi Temple
The Lairai Devi Temple, located in Shirgaon village of Bicholim Taluka, North Goa, is a revered spiritual centre and a vital part of Goa's socio-religious fabric. Dedicated to Goddess Lairai, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the temple is known for its unique customs, community discipline, and the iconic Shirgao Jatra or Lairai Jatra.
Location Overview
The Lairai Devi Temple is located in Shirgaon village of Bicholim Taluka, North Goa.
About Lairai Devi and Temple Significance
Religious Significance
- Form of Worship: Goddess Lairai is worshipped as a Kalash (Pot), symbolising Trigunatmika Adishakti, the unmanifest source of all creation.
- Sacred Symbolism: The Kalash in the Garbhagriha represents the womb – the origin of existence.
- Ritual Practice: Mogra (Jasmine) flowers are traditionally offered to the Devi.
Temple Architecture
- Constructed in traditional Goan style with a simple structure.
- A yellow temple with saffron hue stands prominently in the village centre.
- A huge Mandapam was added later as an expansion.
- A 240-year-old painting of Devi adorns the temple wall, portraying her in a green saree within a Kalash—an artistic style that predates Raja Ravi Varma.
Key Festivals and Rituals
Lairai Devi Jatra (Shirgao Jatra)
Aspect
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Details
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Occasion
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Vaishakh Shukla Panchami
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Ritual Highlight
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Fire-walking ritual (Agnidivya) performed by devotees known as Dhonds
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Sequence
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Starts with processions, dances, drumming → Bonfire at midnight → Fire walk
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Belief System
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The righteous will remain unharmed when walking over fire
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Audience
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Attracts devotees from Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka
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- During Sharad Navaratri, daily Chandi Path happens.
- Temple priests and villagers emphasise devotion, discipline, and daily rituals.
Symbolism and Syncretism
- The temple stands as a symbol of religious harmony.
- Hindus and Catholics in the region consider Lairai Devi and the Virgin Mary of Mapusa as sisters, indicating deep cultural integration and mutual respect.
Heritage and Artistic Legacy
- The 240-year-old painting inside the temple is a valuable cultural artefact.
- It shows Goddess Lairai in Raja Ravi Varma-like style but predates his works.
- Represents the early evolution of divine feminine iconography in Goan culture.
Practice Questions:
Q.The Lairai Devi Temple is situated in: A. Shirgaon B. HampiC. Konark D. Somnath
Ans: A
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