History
Relocation from Kunkalli (1583)
In 1583 after uprising of Cuncolim, to safeguard the idols from Portuguese destruction, devotees courageously relocated the Goddess from Kunkalli to Fatorpa. Hence, she is fondly known as
“Shri Shantadurga Kunkallikarin” — Shantadurga who migrated from Kunkalli.
When the Portuguese started disturbing the peace of the temple environment devi moved to hilly and peaceful area Fatorpa.
Devi came into dreams of villagers of Culvaddo, told to build a temple in Fatorpa.
Founders and Mahajans
The original founders of the temple are the Shahanav Kull Marathas (Naik Desai) of the Kshatriya Maratha community of Kunkalli. They form part of the ancient Bara Bangdi tradition consisting of 12 vangads:
Mhal, Shetkar, Naik, Mangaro, Sombro, Thombdo, Porob, Siddhkali, Lokkali, Bandekar, Rovono, Bheklo
Collectively known as Gaavkar, these families continue to uphold and protect the temple traditions.
Renovation & Reconstruction
Early Renovation (1822)
After relocation, the first major renovation took place in 1822 CE (Shaka 1744).
Modern Reconstruction (1974–1985)
● Architectural plans prepared: 1974–1977
● Reconstruction commenced: 1985
● Re-consecration ceremony: 1 January 1989 (Margashirsha Vadya Navami, Shaka 1910)
Architecture
Temple Design
The present temple is a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern architecture. Its towering shikhara is considered the tallest temple tower in Goa, visible from great distances.
Deepastambha (Lamp Tower)
● Height: 78 feet
● Tallest of its kind in South India
● Reflects a blend of traditional aesthetics and Vastu Shastra principles
Inaugurated on:
21 February 2010 (Phalguna Shuddha Saptami, Shaka 1931)
Mahadwar (Main Entrance)
The majestic entrance features:
● Grand arches
● Carved sculpture of kshatriya warrior on horseback defeating a Portuguese soldier
Inaugurated on:
30 December 2000 (Poush Shuddha Panchami, Shaka 1922)
Upon entering through the Mahadwar, the magnificent temple of Shri Shantadurga comes into view, uplifting the heart of every devotee.
Relocation from Kunkalli (1583)
In 1583 after uprising of Cuncolim, to safeguard the idols from Portuguese destruction, devotees courageously relocated the Goddess from Kunkalli to Fatorpa. Hence, she is fondly known as
“Shri Shantadurga Kunkalikarin” — Shantadurga who migrated from Kunkalli.
When the Portuguese started disturbing the peace of the temple environment devi moved to hilly and peaceful area Fatorpa.
Devi came into dreams of villagers of Culvaddo, told to build a temple in Fatorpa.
Founders and Mahajans
The original founders of the temple are the Shahanav Kull Marathas (Naik Desai) of the Kshatriya Maratha community of Kunkalli. They form part of the ancient Bara Bangdi tradition consisting of 12 vangads:
Mhal, Shetkar, Naik, Mangaro, Sombro, Thombdo, Porob, Siddhkali, Lokkali, Bandekar, Rovono, Bheklo
Collectively known as Gaavkar, these families continue to uphold and protect the temple traditions.
Renovation & Reconstruction
Early Renovation (1822)
After relocation, the first major renovation took place in 1822 CE (Shaka 1744).
Modern Reconstruction (1974–1985)
● Architectural plans prepared: 1974–1977
● Reconstruction commenced: 1985
● Re-consecration ceremony: 1 January 1989 (Margashirsha Vadya Navami, Shaka 1910)
Architecture
Temple Design
The present temple is a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern architecture. Its towering shikhara is considered the tallest temple tower in Goa, visible from great distances.
Deepastambha (Lamp Tower)
● Height: 78 feet
● Tallest of its kind in South India
● Reflects a blend of traditional aesthetics and Vastu Shastra principles
Inaugurated on:
21 February 2010 (Phalguna Shuddha Saptami, Shaka 1931)
Mahadwar (Main Entrance)
The majestic entrance features:
● Grand arches
● Carved sculpture of kshatriya warrior on horseback defeating a Portuguese soldier
Inaugurated on:
30 December 2000 (Poush Shuddha Panchami, Shaka 1922)
Upon entering through the Mahadwar, the magnificent temple of Shri Shantadurga comes into view, uplifting the heart of every devotee.
Sanctum & Deity
Panchayatana Deities
The temple houses:
Shrisatpurush, Shri Siddhpurush, Shri Siddhadev, Shri Golcho Paik, Shri Rama Avatar, Shri Krishna Avatar, Shri Narayan Dev, Shri Ramnath Dev, Shri Santeri Devi, Shri Navadurga Devi, Shri Ghodyapaik, Shri Mul Purva, Shri Chakra, and Khenteri of the Siddis.
Shree Shantadurga
Shri Khandrai
Shri Aakar Udengi
Shri Satpurush
Shri Siddhapurush
Shri Mahadev
Shree Shantadurga
Shri Khandrai
Shri Aakar Udengi
Shri Satpurush
Shri Siddhapurush