Baghbhairav complex, Ward no. 1

Baghbhairav
Temple

CONSTRUCTION DATE

During the reign of King Shivadev (1099-1126 AD), according to Gopal dynasty

Renovation Date

515 AD, 1803 AD, 1827 AD, 1967 AD, 2006 AD 2012 AD (NS 635, NS 923, NS 947, NS 1087, NS 1126, NS 1132)

Architecture Style

Three tiered, rectangular plan, traditional Newa: tiered temple Style

Historical
Importance

Baghbhairav temple is one of the oldest temple of Kirtipur and houses the most important deity, which is Bhairav in the form of tiger (bagh). Cultural Activities Bagh Bhairab Jatra is conducted every year. People from various places pay homage to Baghbhairav for their health and prosperity. Locals consider Baghbhairav as the protector god, Ajudyo. Hence, locals offer puja to Baghbhairav before any auspicious ceremonies such as weddings, bratabandha, rice-feedings and so on.

On the western side wall, there is a small niche which is worshipped as Nasa Dyo, the god of music and dance. Likewise, on the western side of the entrance area, there is another open shrine known as Hi-pha-dyo where sacrificial rituals are done.

Cultural Activities

Every day, puja is offered and once a year in Dashain (Mohani), special puja is carried out.

Architectural
Characteristics

The temple stoods as an example of extraordinary Newah temple architecture. This three tiered temple rests on a raised platform of four successive plinths made of brick.

A stone stairway leads to ground floor of temple where a circumambulatory space is also provided in the form of Verandah. Two elephants in the first plinth guard the entry way. Inner core brickwall and twenty number of beautifully carved exterior columns support the upper structure. Just below the first roof, a verandah like space is provided instead of solid wall normally seen in other temples.

The brick walls are provided with decorated doors and windows. All the three roofs are finished with jhingati tiles and supported from below by decorative timber struts. The struts consists of images of gods/goddesses. The temple is topped by metal gajur and a metal banner is hanged down from gajur to first tier in the front side. As Uma Maheshwor temple is located in high elevation, it provides the good views of Kathmandu and immediate surroundings.