Renovation of Jayabageshwori Temple Underway in Kathmandu

Kathmandu. The renovation of the Jayabageshwori temple, located within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pashupatinath, is currently in full swing. As part of this process, new clay idols of Jayabageshwori, Ganesh, and Bhairav are being crafted.

According to Anita Bhatta, Information Officer at the Pashupati Area Development Trust, the temple's 'kalevar' (ritual renovation) is performed every 12 years. She stated that the work is scheduled to be completed by Baisakh 18.

The idol of Ganesh at Jayabageshwori depicts him before his head was severed, which is why the idol lacks a trunk. Historical records indicate that the construction of Jayabageshwori began in Kali Samvat 3232 and was completed 47 years later in 3274.

The temple was previously renovated after sustaining damage during the 1990 BS earthquake. Similarly, it underwent reconstruction following significant damage during the 2072 BS Baisakh 12 earthquake.

Although Jayabageshwori is revered as Mahasaraswati, Mahakali, and Mahalakshmi, she is primarily worshipped as the Goddess of Knowledge. There is a tradition among tantric practitioners to conclude their rituals with worship at Jayabageshwori. A Sundhara (golden spout) was originally established alongside the temple, but it is now on the verge of disappearing. The temple of Taleju Bhawani is situated directly in front of Jayabageshwori.

Jayabageshwori is considered the ancient capital of the valley. Local resident Sandesh Munikar, known as 'Gol', claims that Jayabageshwori was the first settlement in the valley. He notes that the settlement originally featured structures including nine castes, nine ponds, nine rest houses, and nine gates.

Experts suggest that Jayabageshwori served as the capital during the Gopal and Kirat dynasties, and that the Licchavi period capital began here before shifting to Handigaon. History records that the capital was later moved from Handigaon to Hanumandhoka during the Malla period.