The Mahalaxmi Temple area is located in Bhangu Tole of Ward No. 8, Madhyapur Thimi Municipality. Bhangu Tole lies in the northern edge of historic Bode town’s central area. Within the temple premises, there are several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, a Dharma Dhatu Chaitya (stupa), a sattal pati (traditional resting pavilion), and a dabali (platform). At the approximate center of the complex stands the west-facing, two-storied pagoda-style Mahalaxmi Temple.
Directly in front of the temple, about ___ meters westward, is the dabali. To its north and west lies the sattal pati, currently housing the ward office. Behind the temple to the east, the Dharma Dhatu Chaitya is located, which was constructed in Nepal Sambat (NS) 928, as inscribed on its foundation. The chaitya features statues of Akshobhya, Amitabha, Amoghasiddhi, and Ratnasambhava in the east, west, north, and south directions, respectively.
To the north of the temple is a bhajan pati (traditional resting and gathering place for devotional singing), built in NS 819. Nearby are a one-storied pagoda-style Ganesh Temple and a spire-style Nrityanath Temple. The premises also house various smaller statues. The Mahalaxmi Temple complex, last renovated in 2057 BS, hosts numerous cultural activities that highlight its significance. The temple’s historical and artistic features add to its importance.
a) Historical Background
Concrete evidence regarding the establishment of the Mahalaxmi Temple remains unavailable. However, inscriptions within the temple premises provide information about its periodic renovation and development. According to the details inscribed on the temple’s main gate, Samar Singh and his wife donated a toran (decorative arch), lamps, and other items in NS 749. It is unclear whether these were offerings during or after the temple’s construction.
An inscription from NS 772 mentions the installation of two lions, while another from NS 810 records the crafting of a gilded “Lunjhya” (golden window). In NS 813, a donation of 32 ropanis of land for special temple worship was recorded. Other inscriptions from NS 833, 857, 860, and 859 document various artistic contributions and land donations for temple maintenance and rituals by donors over time.
b) Cultural Significance
The Mahalaxmi Temple holds immense cultural significance and plays a vital role in the local lifestyle. The temple hosts various rituals and traditions during festivals and other occasions, highlighting its importance. The temple premises serve as a focal point for cultural activities throughout the year, especially during the Biska Jatra festival, starting at the end of Chaitra.
During this festival, a wooden pole (Yosin Thanegu) is erected in front of the temple, followed by a forgiveness ritual (Kshama Puja) on the first day of Baisakh. On this day, the Guthiyar (member of the local Guthi organization) offers a 32-hand-long “Pata” (flag) handwoven at home. The flag is tied to the temple’s pinnacle and lowered as part of a traditional ceremony overseen by the Mul Guru. A belief prevails that if the flag touches the ground, it signals impending misfortune. Additionally, rituals involving offerings of Anarasa (rice pudding) are conducted, symbolizing agricultural prosperity and predicting rainfall patterns for the year.
The temple also takes a leading role in the Khata Jatra of seven deities during Biska Jatra. Moreover, the famous tongue-piercing ritual (Mye Pwa Khaneegu) on the second day of Baisakh is closely linked to the temple. After completing the tongue-piercing procession, the needle is removed in the temple’s premises, and a ritual touch is made to the Ganesh Temple’s post.
The temple is also integral to the celebrated Dyah Pyakhan (Nilbarahi Dance), which includes a special performance at the Mahalaxmi Temple.
c) Artistic Importance
The two-storied temple underwent renovation a few years ago, replacing the earlier roof made of traditional shingles with a copper roof. Three pinnacles (gajur) were installed atop the temple, and an additional pinnacle was placed above the first roof. This indicates that the temple, originally a single story, was later expanded into two stories. Approximately 40 feet tall, the temple is artistically captivating.
The carved wooden struts (Bho Sajya) with intricate motifs beneath the first roof enhance its beauty. Below each strut are gilded one-sided Tikijhya (window panels), adding to its artistic charm. Inside the temple, two large stone slabs, believed to represent Bhairav and Mahalaxmi, are placed flat. The stones are gilded and feature carvings of Mahalaxmi, Kumari, and Chamunda, flanked by statues of Ganesh and Kumar. Above these is a gilded arch with decorative carvings.
Surrounding the temple is a row of oil-lamp holders (Chakamat). In front of the temple, a beautifully sculpted pillar with a statue of a lion holding the national flag further enhances the artistic allure of the temple and its surroundings.
