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Bhimsen is the second of the five Pandava brothers in the ancient Sanatan epic Mahabharata, known for his extraordinary strength, courage, and dedication to family. His valor and physical prowess have made him one of the most memorable characters in Sanatan (Hindu) mythology. However, his influence extends beyond the borders of India. In Nepal, particularly within the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhimsen is worshipped not only as a mythological figure but also as a guardian deity of power, commerce, and security. His unique place in the cultural and religious heritage of the Newar people reflects a rich blend of mythological faith and local traditions.
Bhimsen in the Mahabharata
In the Mahabharata, Bhimsen (or Bhima) emerges as a warrior endowed with exceptional strength and courage. Born to Kunti and the wind god Vayu, he is renowned for his powerful physique, insatiable appetite, and unwavering loyalty to his family. He plays a significant role in the Kurukshetra War, where he defeats prominent Kaurava warriors like Duryodhana and Dushasana. Beyond his combat skills, Bhimsen is portrayed as a protector of justice, always ready to fight against oppression and uphold the path of righteousness. His dedication to his elder brother Yudhishthira and respect for his wife Draupadi further deepen his portrayal as a devoted family man. These qualities are deeply appreciated in Nepal’s Newar community, where Bhimsen is revered not only as a symbol of strength but also as a guardian of social and moral values.
Bhimsen's Place in the Newar Community
Within the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley, Bhimsen is worshipped as a special deity who cares for merchants and protects trade. This worship is unique to Newar culture, with various temples dedicated to him, the most prominent being the Bhimsen Temple located in Patan and Kathmandu. In Newar tradition, Bhimsen is worshipped as the god of trade and commerce. Newar merchants and businessmen often pray to him for success in their ventures and security in their livelihoods. This worship is closely linked to Bhimsen’s role in the Mahabharata, where he protected his family and allies from enemies and adversities. For the Newar community, Bhimsen symbolizes strength, perseverance, and security—qualities considered essential for achieving success in trade.
Bhimsen as a Guardian Deity
Beyond trade, Bhimsen is also viewed as a guardian deity within the Newar community. His strength and courage make him an ideal protector against evil forces and natural disasters. In a region sensitive to earthquakes, floods, and other calamities, Bhimsen's role as a guardian holds particular significance. The Newar community prays for his blessings not only for individual and family safety but also for the well-being of society at large. Bhimsen’s temples often become focal points during festivals and significant religious events. The Newars offer him food, flowers, and other offerings, symbolizing their belief that Bhimsen can protect them from misfortunes and bestow prosperity. These practices reflect a deep cultural integration of Bhimsen into religious and spiritual life, where mythology and practical life blend seamlessly.
Bhimsen Jatra: A Festival of Power and Unity
One of the most important festivals dedicated to Bhimsen in the Newar community is Bhimsen Jatra, a traditional celebration honoring his glory. This festival includes processions, rituals, and community feasts. It serves as a means for the community to express gratitude to Bhimsen, who has safeguarded their well-being and economic success. During the Jatra, statues or symbols of Bhimsen are paraded through the streets, accompanied by music, dance, and prayers. This celebration not only strengthens the community's religious devotion but also reinforces social ties among merchants, families, and local citizens. It highlights Bhimsen’s role as a unifying figure in the Newar community, bringing people together in the celebration of collective worship and cultural heritage.
Bhimsen Temple in Patan
In the Kathmandu Valley and elsewhere in Nepal, it is rare to find a Newar settlement without a Bhimsen temple. The Bhimsen Temple in Lalitpur, built in 1682, is one of the prominent monuments located in Mangalbazar, near the Patan Durbar Square, adjacent to the Vishwa Vishnu Temple and diagonally opposite the Mani Mandap Pavilion and fountain. This temple, dedicated to Bhimsen, has an uncertain age, though it was rebuilt by Shrinivas Malla after a fire in 1682. It underwent further reconstruction after the major earthquake of 1934 and again in 1967. The temple suffered significant damage in the April 2015 earthquake but was reopened in early 2022 after a comprehensive reconstruction that preserved much of its pre-earthquake form.
Interesting Facts about Dolakha Bhimsen
Legend has it that the Pandavas spent some time in Dolakha during their exile. Dolakha Bhimsen is a revered deity in Nepal and holds significant importance in the hearts of local people. This ancient temple, located in Dolakha district, is not just a religious site but also a cultural symbol. It is dedicated to Bhimsen, associated with strength and power in Hindu mythology. Bhimsen is considered an incarnation of Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers. Dolakha Bhimsen is among the oldest temples in Nepal, dating back to the 7th century. The temple’s architecture reflects the ancient Newari style, featuring intricate woodwork and stone carvings. Dolakha Bhimsen is known for miraculous events, one of which is the sweating of the idol. Locals believe that when the idol sweats, it signals impending disaster or significant changes.
Conclusion
As the deity of power, commerce, and security, Bhimsen remains a figure of veneration in the Newar community, where people pray for his blessings for success and safety. His temples and festivals serve as lasting reminders of this great hero, whose strength and dedication continue to inspire reverence and devotion in the vibrant Newar community of Nepal.
