Ramnathi Temple, Goa

Ramanathi Temple, also known as Shanteri Kamakshi Temple, is located in Ramanathim, Bandivade, Goa, India. It is an important temple for the Gaud Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community as well as the Daivagya Brahmins and Vaishyas, who are the primary worshippers.

The temple follows the Panchayatan system, which is common among Brahmin temples in Goa, which means that it has five main deities. The main deity is Shri Ramnath, who symbolizes the unity of Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva). Other deities worshiped in the temple include Shanteri (Shantadurga), Kamakshi, Lakshmi Narayan, Ganapati, Betal and Kalabhairava as well as other family men.

fable

According to legend, the idol of Ramnath was originally installed at Rameshwar by Lord Rama. After Rama returned from Lanka, he prayed to Shiva to absolve him of the sin of killing a Brahmin. A lingam was installed, and Shiva emerged from the idol, instructing Rama to seek guidance from Guru Gorakshanath. One of the panths (spiritual paths) that originated from Rama came to be known as Ramnath.

History

The original temple of Ramnathi was located at Lutolim, Salsette, Goa. However, to save the idol from destruction by the Portuguese authorities, it was shifted to its present location in the 16th century. In May 2011, the temple celebrated 450 years at its present site.

This temple is a place of worship for Gaud Saraswat Brahmins of Vatsa, Kaundinya gotra and Daivagya Brahmins. Several associated families, known as Kulavis, migrated from Salsette and now live on the west coast of India including Goa, Mumbai, Coastal Karnataka, Kerala and abroad. They continue the tradition of visiting the temple after important family events.

Festival:

The temple celebrates an annual Jatra (festival) with great enthusiasm and devotion. The festival includes a traditional palanquin procession carrying the idol of the deity. Additionally, Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the Mother Goddess, is grandly celebrated in the temple.

Temple Timings:

The temple remains open from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm for devotees to visit and worship.

how to reach:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Ramnathi Temple is the Goa International Airport, also known as Dabolim Airport. It is situated about 36 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid cab to reach the temple at Ramanathim, Bandiwade.

by rail:

The nearest railway stations to Ramnathi Temple are Vasco Da Gama Railway Station and Madgaon Railway Station. The Vasco da Gama Railway Station is approximately 35 km away, while the Margao Railway Station is approximately 21 km from the temple. From any of these stations, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.

By Bus or Road:

Ramnathi Temple is well connected by road, and various bus services operate in the area. To reach the temple, you can take a bus from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, which is approximately 28 km away. If you are traveling by private vehicle, you can follow NH66 (National Highway 66) or other suitable routes to reach Ramanathim, Bandivade, where the temple is located. Adequate parking facility is available near the temple for the visitors.

Categories: Temple
Source: condotel.edu.vn