Virabhadra in Goa: A fierce and fiery sight

Venita Gomes

Around this time every year, Virabhadra takes place at the Shree Pandurang Devasthan Vithalapur, in Sankhali.

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali | Photo: Shriyash Shivprasad Kanekar

Virabhadra is a traditional dance, which is an enactment of the famous Hindu mythological character, called Virabhadra, said to be created by Lord Mahadeva.

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali | Photo: Shriyash Shivprasad Kanekar

During this event, a member of the Shirodkar family enacts the Virabhadra folk dance. Holding two swords in his hands, he takes a couple of rounds of a burning pyre. 

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali | Photo: Shriyash Shivprasad Kanekar

He is dressed in royal costume and makeup depicting Virabhadra.

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali

Before playing the role of Virabhadra, he has to undergo strict observances such as fasting.

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali | Photo: Shriyash Shivprasad Kanekar

During the performance, he goes into a trance and turns aggressive, the entire scene fills the minds of the spectators with fear.

Virabhadra|Goa|Shiva|Shree Pandurang Devsthan Vithalapur |Sankhali | Photo: Shriyash Shivprasad Kanekar

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