Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal is one of the most significant Lord Shiva temples in the world. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River at Katmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Pashupatinath who is considered as the protector of all Universal living beings. Since he is the guardian deity of Nepal, this shrine is assumed to be important and exclusive sacred location in the country. Here the idol is represented by a vertical and cylindrical shaped stone called ‘Shiva Linga’. This icon of Lord Siva is said to have existed naturally during the prehistoric period. Pashupatinath Temple is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Temple Significance and Architecture
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams or Holy Abodes of Shiva on the continent. There are historical evidences regarding a primitive Shiva temple at this location. But the present worshiping center was built by the king Bhupatindra Malla in the year 1697.The divine Shivalinga here is five faced with four on sides and one on top. The lateral faces are looking towards four directions whereas the last one upwards. Apart from this, there are also statues and associated shrines at this holy monument which represent other gods and goddesses.
The architecture of the temple is the Nepalese pagoda style with beautifully carved wooden rafters and cubic constructions. The temple has a gold pinnacle, symbolizing religious thoughts. The two level roofs are of copper and covered with gold plating. A huge Nandi can be seen on the western door. This shrine is famous for its unique structure and sculptural works. The golden carvings that can be seen on the doors of the temple are really enchanting.
Culture and Festivals
The Pashupatinath temple is very much bounded with tradition, culture, religion and faith. The rituals, customs and formalities followed in the temple are believed to have proposed by the prominent Hindu sage Jagad Guru Sankaracharya. Sivarathri which falls during February and March is the important festival of this temple. On this particular day, devotees perform sacraments for the whole night. It is said that the worshipers of Pashupatinath can achieve both spiritual and physical developments by their dedicated prayers. Together with reverence they can also offer flowers, garlands, fruits, grains, incense. It is said that by offering prayers to the deity, the devotees can be freed from rebirth and reached the world of Shiva.
River Bagmati
River Bagmati which flows by the side of this temple premise is considered to be so sacred. Devotees usually have their bath in this watercourse prior to their routine prayers. It is really enchanting to view the temple and surroundings from the other side of the river. This godly location is a holy cremation site for the whole Hindu believers.
Shaivaism once spread across the length and breadth of Bharata and was the most commonly practiced. Shaiva and Shakta philosophies encompassing the Samkhya school of thought predate all the other schools and form a precursor since the dawn of time.
ReplyDeleteMy oblations to Sri Maheshwara and his consort Sri Kamakshi.