Makharotsav traditions at Navratri in Goa

UNIQUE TRADITION

Makharotsav, a ritual which is unique to Goa, is seen in several temples at Navratri, where gods and goddesses are worshiped for nine nights.

WHAT IS A MAKHAR?

Makhars are rectangular wooden frames suspended from the ceiling of temples with chains, inside which the idol of the goddess/god is placed.

BOLD & COLOURFUL

During the festival, these creative makhars are built and decorated with coloured paper, flower garlands, mirrors and lights.

FILLED WITH DIVINITY

During the nine days, idols of gods and goddesses worshipped are adorned with colourful outfits and ornaments.

SPIRITUAL ETHOS

During the aarti, these suspended makhars swing to the beats of musical instruments, even as the devotees sing bhajans to create a devotional ambience.

VISIT THIS TEMPLE

One such temple where one can witness these makhars is the Mahalasa Narayani temple at Mardol.

FAMOUS MAKHARS

Shri Manguesh temple, Naguesh temple and Shri Mahalakshmi Temple in Bandora and Shree Shantadurga Devasthan in Khandepar are some of the temples to witness these makhars.

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