Kathmandu, October 26
A month-long fair at Adinath Temple in Chobhar Danda, Kathmandu, began on Monday.
The fair, which starts every year on the full moon day of Ashwin, attracts large numbers of devotees from the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas. It continues until the full moon day of Kartik. The temple, dating back to the Licchavi period, is recognised as a heritage site of historical and archaeological significance.
The temple houses an idol depicting the combined form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Followers of both Hinduism and Buddhism revere it as a shared place of worship. The temple is commonly known as both Ardhanarishwar and Adinath.
According to local legend, participating in the fair protects devotees from skin diseases. It is also believed that visiting the temple frees people from fear, illness and obstacles while bringing family happiness and prosperity.
Buddhists worship Lokeshwar at the temple as a symbol of compassion. Devotees offer prayers in the belief that doing so brings longevity, protection from premature death and wealth. Hindus worship Adinath as a manifestation of Shiva and Shakti.
The temple offers scenic views of the Kathmandu Valley. Religious sites nearby include Manjushree Park, Jal Binayak Temple and Taudaha Lake.
The Chobhar Gorge, also located in the area, is associated with the legend of Manjushree cutting through a mountain with his sword to drain the water from the Kathmandu Valley, which was once believed to have been a lake.
