Shri Nageshi Temple — Attraction in Bandora

An Ancient Temple but renovated in 1780 A. D. by Shri Wadiye from Kumbarjuvem on behalf of his mother-in-law, Smt. Savitri Kamat, widow of Shri Narayan Kamat. Presiding Deity : Shri Nagesh Maharudra. Other Deities : Shri Laxmi Narayan and Shri Ganapati.

Important Festivals : On every Monday evening, the procession of Shri Nagesh in shibika till 09:30 pm., Shri Laxmi Narayan on every Dashmi, and Shri Ganapati on every fourth day of each month (Vinayaki) in the same manner except in the Chatur mas.

Darshan Seva : The consultation of oracle is made by placing boiled rice grains to the pindika on the days except Mondays, Ekadashi, Amavasya and all festival days.

Kulavis : This is an ancient Kuladevata temple of GSBs belonging to Kaushik Gotra (Surnames: Nayak, Shanbhag, Shenai, Rao, Kelkar etc), Vatsa Gotra (Surnames: Pai, Kamat, Kamath, Shenvi, Mallya, Kaikini, Asgekar etc.) and Bharadwaj Gotra (Prabhu). In addition the families of Dhempo and Gharse are also worshippers.

Journey Details : Located at Bandiwade or Antruz Mahal. Situated on Pharmagudi-Kavalem-Ponda road about 800 meters from Pharmagudi, 26.2 kms. from Panaji on Panaji-Belgaum Highway.

Nearby Interesting places : The surroundings are encircled by ranges of hills on the three sides, and the river Aghanashini flows on the fourth side. A rivulet flows round the year through the heart of the village on its either side. One can see the dark green fields. There are number of springs found in several places in the surrounding hills with areca plantations. The temple is facing west and in front is the temple tank. The water here is ever flowing and is clean. "Pillar of Shri Mangesh, Dome of Shri Shantadurga, Tank of Shri Nagesh, Square of Shri Mahalasa and Gana of Shri Kamakashi", this is a popular saying in Goa. The temple of Shri Jagdamba Mahalaxmi is just 300 metres away.

History : Shri Nagesh Temple is a "Swayambhu" shrine of Lord Shankar known for its miraculous myths. The history is not available at present, except a reference in the folk songs. The environs known as Nagzar had in the past a grove of Shami trees. As the legend goes a cow-boy noticed that a cow from his herd used to visit the place regularly and showered milk. This led to the discovery of Shivlinga. A distinctive feature of Devasthan is that it was unaffected by the religious persecution of Portuguese rulers in the 16th Century. This was because at that time Antruj of Ponda Mahal was not under the domain of the Portuguese power and this facilitated the transits of Saraswat deities Shri Nagesh, Shantadurga, Ganapati etc. to Antruz & Bhatagram (Dicholi). In the compound of the Devastan, there is an inscription, which is an undisputed document about the antiquity of this temple. It relates to a gift of Lands named after 'Vedakhandikechem Kulagar', 'Nagzri Mallo, paddy field & 'Ruvo Kulagar' in favour of the deities of Shri Nagesh & Shri Mahalaxmi for sevas on Kartik Poornima by Shri Mayeen Shenvi Wagle, an officer of the kingdom, in the year 1413 A.D. or 1335 Saka, during the rule of King Veer Pratap Devaraya of Vijay Nagar. At that time, Shri Nanjan Gosavi was the Governor of Goa. In those days the deity was known as Nagnath, as stated in a copper plate, bearing the year 1229 Saka, found in Savai Verem. One stone idol of Uma - Mahesh & one of Ganesh have been found in the compound of the temple. From the style of the sculpture the Archaeologists are of the opinion that they belong to the Seventh and Eighth century respectively. Therefore, it is beyond doubt that the temple existed here even before the...

A Unique and Wonderful place of 'Lord Naguesh' (incarnation of Lord Shiva). Mandir is sweet and Small, with truly presence of God.

Inside the temple is very peaceful, Pleasant and Holy too. Inside the temple in the first 'Nandi' (Shiva's Vahan) is embedded (Nandi/Bull signifies that place belongs to Lord Shiva) Lord Naguesh is worship in the middle (Main Diety) and on the right part of the temple Lord Ganpati and on the left part (Lord/Goddess) couple Laxmi Narayan is worshipped.

Inside celling walls are beautifully decorated portraying stories of different God-Goddesses.

On the Top of the Temple is 'Kalas' Golden which is very Enticing. 'Deep Stambh' decorated with different Myths are standing outside the temple which is beautiful and pleasing. 'Tali' (waterbody) in front of the temple is one of the Biggest and Cleanest in the Goa. Tali is very beautiful, surrounded by 'Kulagar' (Farm mostly consist of Palm trees and other spices)at one side is unique and sacred. {Just be around for sometime to feel the Beauty and peace.} 'Tusli Vrundavan' and 'Naga shrine' is located on the left side of the temple, 'Holy Well' (water used only for various activities performed in the temple) is just behind the temple, also on the right side there is Shrine of 'Purus'( protector-Gram Purus- each family have their own, which can be understood by visiting the place- Names if Families are mentioned accordingly), 'Chowgudo' (a traditional music played by people/temple staff during specific timing for making the deity happy/entertain.) Chowgudo is located in the room provided on the top of side entrance.

There is an 'Agarshala' Rooms for Stay (mostly for Mahajans- Members of the temple accordingly) , Hall ( Air-conditioned/open) is also available around temple premices for public for conducting functions like weddings,thread ceramonies etc.) can enquire about details with the staff committee office which is located just outside the temple in one corner.

Several Rituals and Ceremonies (For Eg. Zatra, Kartik Punav, Mahuradra, Kirtan, Gokulashtami etc etc.are conducted regularly which are unique & sacred as per calendar. Puja is performed by Pujari/Pandit along with Aarti on daily basis. Every Monday night 'Palki' (Handbarrow) Utsav is celebrated, (Deity is taken for round in Temple area) Aarti, Prasad is served.

Parking , wheel chair accessible entrance facilities are available at the temple gate. Being a sacred Holy place, do have Bath and visiting is recommended.

Area is very clean, atmosphere is Fresh, visiting during any time of the day makes happy & fruitful.

Do visit and complete your wishes by worshipping the Lord.

Keep Goa...

Shri Nageshi Temple, Goa 🔱⛱️ Discover the legend of the self-made Shivlinga

Nestled in the serene village of Bandora in Ponda, Goa, the Shri Nageshi Maharudra Temple is a gem for both travelers and history enthusiasts. Nagueshi or Nagesh is a form of the Hindu god Shiva worshipped by Konkani Hindus in India. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is believed to house a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shivlinga, discovered by a cowherd when his cow mysteriously started offering milk at the site.

The temple's origins are steeped in folklore and ancient history. While the exact date of its founding is unknown, inscriptions dating back to 1413 AD mention the temple, indicating its long-standing significance. Interestingly, the temple remained untouched during the Portuguese rule, a period when many Hindu temples were destroyed or relocated.

What makes Shri Nageshi Temple unique is its reflection pool, or tali, which ingeniously allows visitors to see the reflection of the deity and the lit lamps in the sanctum sanctorum from a specific vantage point around the water body. The temple complex, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, is also bordered by the perennial Aghanashini River, adding to its tranquil ambiance.

The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM for the practical traveler, making it accessible for early risers and night owls alike. There is no entry fee, but donations are always welcomed. Do note, the temple recently restricted entry to foreigners due to concerns over appropriate conduct and attire.

Although not a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shri Nageshi Maharudra Temple is a cultural and spiritual landmark that provides a window into Goa's rich religious traditions and architectural heritage. Nearby attractions include the Shri Jagadamba Mahalaxmi Temple, just a short walk away, offering more opportunities for exploration.

So, if you find yourself in Goa, take a break from the beaches and nightlife, and immerse yourself in the serene spirituality and ancient legends of the Shri Nageshi Maharudra Temple. Just remember to dress modestly and respect the local customs while you soak in the mystique of this...