Lairai Devi Temple

05.05.2025

Lairai Devi Temple

Why in the news?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     In a tragic turn of events, at least six people died, and over 70 others were injured after a stampede in the wee hours of Saturday in Shirgaon village in North Goa's Bicholim, during the annual Lairai Jatra procession at Shree Lairai Devi temple.

About Lairai Devi Temple

• The Lairai Devi Temple is a revered spiritual site located in Shirgao village, Bicholim taluka, North Goa.
• Dedicated to Goddess Lairai, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the temple holds immense cultural and religious significance for the local community.
• The temple's architecture reflects traditional Goan design, with intricate carvings and vibrant interiors that add to its sacred charm.
• The temple is a symbol of religious harmony, with local Hindus and Catholics regarding Lairai Devi and the Virgin Mary of Mapusa as sisters.
• It is best known for hosting the annual Lairai Devi Jatra (Shirgao Jatra), where the dramatic fire-walking ritual (Agnidivya) is performed by devotees called "dhonds."
• The festival begins with processions, devotional dances, and drumming. At midnight, a massive bonfire is lit, and in the early hours, the fire-walking ritual commences. Devotees chant the goddess’s name as they cross the embers, believing the righteous will remain unharmed.
• The event draws tens of thousands of devotees from Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, fostering strong community bonds and reinforcing local traditions.

                                                              Source: The Print

Consider the following statements regarding Lairai Devi Temple:

1.  It is a revered spiritual site located in Shirgao village, Bicholim taluka, North Goa.

2.The temple's architecture reflects traditional Goan design, with intricate carvings and vibrant interiors that add to its sacred charm.

3.The festival begins with processions, devotional dances, and drumming.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

A.Only one

B.Only two

C.All three

D.None

Answer C