The Bageshwori Temple, situated in Nepalgunj, a major city in western Nepal, holds a significant place in the religious and cultural landscape of the region. Historical Significance. The Temple stands as one of the oldest temples in Nepalgunj and is revered as the oldest temple in the Banke District. Its age underscores its historical importance, with records indicating its existence for many centuries.
History significance and Beliefs
According to legend, the temple's origin is rooted in a special dream that a group of yogis had while they were traveling to the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. The goddess Sati Devi, wife of Lord Shiva, apparently appeared in their dreams and revealed the location where her tongue had fallen. Eventually they found the spot she mentioned and this sacred event led to the construction of the temple in her honor. It is believed that devotees can catch a glimpse of the goddess's tongue through "khulla darshan", a special viewing inside the temple. These long-standing practices serve to preserve the temple's cultural heritage, spiritual significance and maintain its status as a respected place of worship.
Religious Practices and Festivals
Throughout the year, the temple attracts a large number of devotees from various parts of Nepal and neighboring Indian cities. This wave of pilgrims significantly increases during major festivals, including Dashain, Shivaratri, Teej, and Magh Shukla Purnima. During Dashain, the temple becomes a focal point for religious observances, with devotees offering prayers to the goddess and engaging in rituals, such as animal sacrifices, as part of their religious customs.
Temple Complex
Within the temple premises, visitors can explore several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Buddha, Ganesha, and Hanuman. These additional shrines add to the religious diversity of the site, providing devotees with opportunities for spiritual contemplation and worship.
Bageshwori Pond and Special Features
The temple complex features a sacred pond known as the Bageshwori Pond, which holds special significance for devotees. At the center of the pond stands a unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, characterized by a depiction with a mustache—a distinctive feature not commonly found in other Shiva temples. This architectural uniqueness adds to the temple's allure and spiritual ambiance.
Pilgrimage Destination
Every year, the Bageshwori Temple attracts pilgrims from various parts of Nepal and neighboring regions, who embark on journeys to seek the blessings of the divine goddess Bageshwori. The temple's reputation as a sacred pilgrimage destination draws devotees seeking spiritual fulfillment, divine intervention, and blessings for their families and loved ones. For many pilgrims, visiting the temple is a deeply meaningful and transformative experience, imbued with a sense of piety, devotion, and reverence.
The Bageshwori Temple stands as a testament to Nepal's rich religious and cultural heritage. Its historical significance, coupled with its role in religious practices and festivals, reinforces its status as a revered site of worship. As a symbol of tradition and faith, the temple continues to attract pilgrims and visitors alike, fostering a sense of spiritual connection and cultural pride within the community.
photo credit: wikimedia, trustNP
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