Kathmandu - Sikhamu Bahal
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Next door to the house of the Royal Kumari is the Sikhamu Bahal, the courtyard of which contains a number of votive stupas. The actual shrine was rebuilt in 1982. From the 16th c. to the 19th c. Sikhamu Bahal performed an important role; during this period a large number of Buddhist texts were produced, the manuscripts being copied here in the bahal.
References to the priests of the Sikhamu Bahal abound in inscriptions found throughout the valley. It was they who officiated at important ceremonies such as the dedication of bahals, stupas and images. The Raj Guru is still chosen from among their number today.
The tradition of the Raj Guru may have its origin in Thakuri times when the valley's rulers were themselves sympathetic to Buddhism. Even under the Mallas the Raj Guru continued to hold a special position as astrologer and adviser to the king. Among his responsibilities today is the selection of the Royal Kumari. He is priest of the Kumari Bahal and head of Nepal's Buddhist community. He alone is qualified to perform certain rituals.
References to the priests of the Sikhamu Bahal abound in inscriptions found throughout the valley. It was they who officiated at important ceremonies such as the dedication of bahals, stupas and images. The Raj Guru is still chosen from among their number today.
The tradition of the Raj Guru may have its origin in Thakuri times when the valley's rulers were themselves sympathetic to Buddhism. Even under the Mallas the Raj Guru continued to hold a special position as astrologer and adviser to the king. Among his responsibilities today is the selection of the Royal Kumari. He is priest of the Kumari Bahal and head of Nepal's Buddhist community. He alone is qualified to perform certain rituals.
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