During the nine auspicious nights of the Navratri, the temple of Chamundeshwari of Vargao, an hamlet of the mining affected Pilgao situated on the hillock attracts devotees to enjoy the pleasing sight of the goddess seating in the well decorated squarish framework mounted on the swing.
The temple of Chamundeshwari of Goa Velha was first constructed in 1625 A. D. by Bhaira Shetti and Kalela Sheti and renovated by Mart Set and Narasinha Set Govekar in 1802 A. D. Devotees of Chamundeshwari in Goa Velha still come to Vargao as she is considered by them as their village deity. The foral da Ilhas of 1567 mention about the existence of the temple of Chamundeshwari at Goa Velha, known as Govapuri, the capital city of the Goa-Kadamba rulers.
Every year, during the nine nights of the first fortnight of the seventh month Ashwin of the lunar calendar of Navratri to take part in the recitation of eulogies of gods and goddesses presented during the Ghumat arati. Early in the morning the Makhar, a squarish wooden framework is decorated with the coloured and glittering papers and flowers and the idol of the deity meant for the festive occasion is mounted on the swing. After the performance of the Kirtan where in the devotional stories related with gods and goddesses are told through the prose and poetry on the music created by Harmonium and Tabla by the folk artist. The devotees start recitation of the eulogy and the idol of Chamundeshwari is made to swing.
Devotees throughout Goa thronge in a large number to witness the ceremony of the Makharotsav held during the festivities of the Navratri. They enjoy a lot of satisfaction after witnessing the most pleasing ceremony of swinging of the deity.
This colourful experience of witnessing the Makharotsav of Chamundeshwari is indeed mesmerizing and enchanting one. In order to experience the rich varied facet of Goa's cultural tradition, we have to visit the temple of Chamundeshwari during the Navratri.
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