Kathmandu - Pachali Bhairava Shrine
On the banks of the Bagmati a massive pipal tree with cavernous roots casts shade over the open Pachali Bhairava Shrine. Pachali Bhairava is one Shiva's most powerful and fearsome aspects.
Bhairava is said to have fallen in love with a girl of the khasai caste, turning himself into a handsome youth in order to win her hand. The smitten girl wanted to know who her lover was and whence he came.
Bhairava is said to have fallen in love with a girl of the khasai caste, turning himself into a handsome youth in order to win her hand. The smitten girl wanted to know who her lover was and whence he came.
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After much hesitation Bhairava prepared to reveal himself in his true colors, giving the girl grains of magic rice which she promised to throw over him to transform him back again. However when he appeared with his long mane and great fangs, she ran away in terror. He in turn hid in a cave beneath the pipal tree, sealing it with a rock, which some say is not a rock but a part of the god himself.
The large rock featuring in the legend is now the principal symbol of the shrine, although worship usually focuses on a small gilded figure. In front of the temple is a bronze statue of Bhairava's bearer and companion Baital. Lying naked on his back, features contorted in an ugly grin, he accepts blood sacrifices on behalf of the god which are usually brought on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The large rock featuring in the legend is now the principal symbol of the shrine, although worship usually focuses on a small gilded figure. In front of the temple is a bronze statue of Bhairava's bearer and companion Baital. Lying naked on his back, features contorted in an ugly grin, he accepts blood sacrifices on behalf of the god which are usually brought on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Related Attractions
Pachali Bhairava - Festival
Pachali Bhairava is traditionally held to belong to the jyapu (farmers') caste, whose members join together with those of the khasai caste to celebrate the Pachali Bhairava Jatra held during Dasain. Various deities are carried in procession to Teku in Pachali Bhairava's honor. Because the god is easily angered the atmosphere at the shrine tends to become highly charged. Buffalo meat and blood are brought to placate him. There are almost always pilgrims and sadhus staying at the nearby dharamsalas (hospices), a sign that the temple is still very much alive. It is also well maintained, in marked contrast to the shivalayas in this part of the town.
