Bikram Baba is more than just a deity in Chitwan; he is a living symbol of the region’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage. For over a century, his temple, nestled within the lush confines of Chitwan National Park near Kasara Durbar, has served as a beacon of hope and divine protection. Revered by the Tharu and Bote communities, who believe he reigns over the earth, heaven, and the underworld, Bikram Baba’s benevolence has gradually attracted devotees from all walks of life. Today, people from diverse backgrounds, including Brahmins, Chhetris, Gurungs, and Magars, come to seek his blessings, reinforcing the notion that his power transcends ethnic boundaries.
Every year during the auspicious Chaitra Shukla Paksha, thousands of devotees gather at his temple to fulfill vows and offer heartfelt prayers. The ritualistic worship, which commences on the first day of this sacred period, is a time for deep personal reflection and communal celebration. Many hold the belief that Bikram Baba grants wishes, improves health, and brings prosperity to families. Particularly poignant is the tradition among childless couples, who trust that their earnest prayers and sacrifices will be rewarded with the blessing of children. In honor of this sacred connection, many children born under such auspices are named Bikram or Bikramiya, forever linking them to the deity’s legacy.
At the heart of the temple’s rituals are two distinct forms of worship. Devotees perform Sattvik Puja with offerings of flowers, fruits, and incense, while Bali Puja, characterized by animal sacrifices like goats, chickens, and pigeons, remains a popular expression of deep-seated devotion. Strict customs, such as women keeping their hair untied and all visitors removing their shoes before entering, underscore the sanctity of the space. An enduring belief also insists that the prasad offered at the temple is to be consumed only within its sacred grounds, symbolizing a pure and unbroken connection with the divine.
The growing popularity of Bikram Baba’s temple has transformed it from a local spiritual haven into one of Nepal’s most significant pilgrimage sites. The annual mela, held during Chaitra Shukla Paksha, has evolved into a grand event that attracts not only devout worshippers but also tourists from across the country and beyond. The 2025 Bikram Baba Mela is set to begin on Saturday, Chaitra 16, 2081 BS (March 30, 2025) and will continue until Purnima (April 13, 2025). Managed by local organizations and community groups, the fair is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, each eager to experience a unique blend of ancient rituals and vibrant cultural festivities.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the mela plays a crucial role in boosting local tourism and supporting the regional economy. Visitors are enchanted by the harmonious mix of devotional ceremonies, traditional Tharu dances, musical performances, and bustling market stalls offering local delicacies and handicrafts. This festive convergence not only provides a rich cultural experience but also fosters economic growth, benefiting local businesses and artisans. The natural beauty of Chitwan National Park further enhances the appeal of the mela, making it a must-visit event on Nepal’s tourism calendar.
As the 2025 Bikram Baba Mela approaches, the anticipation among devotees and tourists alike is palpable. Thousands will soon gather in Kasara, Chitwan, to immerse themselves in a celebration that unites faith, culture, and community. The mela is a vibrant testament to the enduring power of belief a tradition that not only honors an ancient deity but also bridges generations, strengthens communal bonds, and enriches the local spirit through its timeless celebration of faith and culture.
Written By: Som Nath Sapkota (Tourism Promoter for the Wales Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal)
