Shri Kamakshi Temple, Shiroda

This temple at the south of Ponda Taluka, is quite impressive and is dedicated to Kamakshi, who is also known as Parvati or consort of Lord Shiva. She is also known as Shantadurga or Goddess of Peace.

Besides being a peace goddess, she also is quite violent when it comes to destruction of evil. The image of Mahishasurmardini form of the goddess is worshipped here. It was originally in Raia, until it was shifted to Shiroda, during temple destruction by the Portuguese. The temples of Raia are in close proximity with each other justified by the images of Lakshminarayan and the linga of Rayeshwar coming from 2 different temples in Raia itself.

The overall setting of this temple is quite congested although the main tower design is quite marvelous with the roof bearing stark resemblance to that of a Buddhist pagoda. It has hooded serpent images projecting from the corners of the pagoda roof while there are elephant statuettes kneeling at the corners of the square base on which rests the main tower. A golden finial rises from the center of the pagoda roof. Within the temple, there are shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman and Dattatreya. Images of Kalbhairava and Betal are also found on the left and right of the silver screen leading to the sanctuary which has the goddess on her pedestal.