What Has Tambdi Surla?
Tambdi Surla is very famous
tourist destination in Goa. Yes, you might have heard about the place which
have ancient Mahadev Temple and one sizzling waterfall in wild forest. Goa
itself mark a very known tourist destination on global map. But, this tourist
destination what we are going to talk about, it has ecological also geological
and mythological shades of history, after visiting this place so many questions
pop ups in our mind such as
- Why
this Place is in so dense forest?
- Who
made this temple?
- Who
carved a temple in stone?
- How
they got such a precision of stone cutting?
- What is
the secret recipe they had to bind stone with one another?
like this and many more....
History of Tambdi Surla.
The Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple in Goa is a historic and
significant temple known for its unique architecture. Built in the 12th century
during the Kadamba dynasty's rule, this temple was constructed using basalt in
the Kadamba style, which is a rare surviving example of this architectural
style. The hills and plateaus cover the temple's basalt construction.Every
year, devotees gather at the temple to have a glimpse of Lord Bholenath,
especially during the festival of Shivratri, which is celebrated with great
enthusiasm here. The temple has a rich history and survived the conflicts
between Muslims and the Portuguese, which destroyed many temples in Goa.The
construction of the Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple must have required significant
efforts and skills, given its unique architecture. The Kadamba craftsmen who
built the temple must have endured a lot of pain and hardships.The Kadamba
dynasty ruled this region from the 10th to the 14th century, and the Tambdi
Surla temple stands as a testament to their legacy. It is a rare and valuable
piece of history that showcases the Kadamba style of architecture, and its
survival is a testament to its resilience and the dedication of those who have
preserved it.
Structure Of Tambdi Surla
Temple
The construction of this temple has some interesting details that have led to differences of opinion about the actual origin and architecture of the temple. Located in a remote area, far from nearby settlements, the Tambdi Surla temple is relatively small compared to Goan temples and the top part of the temple remains unfinished. The temple faces east so that the rays of the rising sun fall on the deities of the temple. Inside, the temple has a small mandapa and is surrounded by three damaged pillars. The idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma, and Lord Vishnu are enshrined in the temple.
In the center of the temple's
mandapa, there is a statue of Nandi Maharaj (the bull), the ultimate devotee of
Lord Bholenath (Lord Shiva), which is surrounded by four pillars. The emblem of
the Kadamba dynasty, which depicts a horse trampling an elephant, is also
prominently featured.
