GOA EXPLORED-BOGDESHWARA TEMPLE ,MAPUSA.

Hi again this post has taken little longer but the exploration of Goa continues.

when you enter Mapausa city from Panajim you will find a recently built temple on the left side of the road in the open grounds.And this is the famous temple of Baba Kanakeshwara worshipped by the Goans as Lord Bogdeshwara.It is believed that the Baba Kanankeshara is the guardian of the city of Mapausa in the dark nights.

If you happen to perform a pooja here you will notice that it is very different from the poojas in the other temples all over the Goa.The priest performs the pooja & the sermons are pronounced in very peculiar way which makes you feel the might of Baba Knankeshwara.

It is believed that the Baba blesses every one who is in need & prays from the heart.

Every year there is fest of Lord Bogdeshwara & the locals participate enthusiastically.

Bye

GOA EXPLORED-Procession of Saints

Hi again

Goa exploration continues.

This unique but relatively unnoticed event popularly known as Procession Of Saints takes place at Saint Andrews Church ,Goa Velha during the period of lent.I am told that this is one of the very few festivals which takes place during the lent.Also unique about this festival is that the only place in the world where this festival is held is Rome.

I saw this procession 2 years back one evening while returning back from my work at Industrial area of Verna.Out of curiosity i talked about this procession with my friends in Goa & could get very good insight.

This place Goa Velha is some 8/10 kms from capital city of Panajim.On 26,Th march 2007,which was also first Monday of Easter week this unique procession took place.The village of Goa Velha adores looks of festivities & lots of local people gather to take part in the procession.
The procession starts before the sunset after a sermon from the priest of Saint Andrews Church.And you see 30 life size statues of saints dressed in colourful costumes of those days comes out in procession.People gathered queue along the route & actually pass under the statues as the procession moves along.I am told this also is a unique feature of festival.The people gathered touch the statues & take the blessings of the Saints.After the procession all these statues are kept in veneration for 3 days at the Church.

I am told that this procession has centuries old tradition & highlights the unselfish work carried out by these saints for the poor or masses.During the Portuguese rule this procession was stopped for some time but again restatrted in 19 Th century.

Indeed a really unique feast for the village of Goa Velha..Goa......India