The renowned Khadga Devi Temple, located in Bandipur, has officially opened its doors to daily visitors starting this Thursday. Previously accessible only during the nine days of Navaratri each year, the temple’s new daily opening schedule marks a significant change. Mr. Anandaman Joshi, Chairman of the temple management committee, announced the temple’s daily opening, a culmination of extensive efforts. The temple, over six centuries old, historically housed priests from the Magar, Kami, and Brahmin communities.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva gifted a sword to King Manimukunda Sen, who later transformed it into a Brahmani’s house before it mysteriously vanished to Devghat for meditation. Subsequently, the sword reappeared as a serpent, flew to Bandipur’s hill, and manifested as Khadga Devi following Shiva’s command, establishing the temple.
Temple priest Bharatmani Bhattarai highlighted the temple’s significance for performing ceremonies related to the army, police, and Phalams, making it spiritually enriching to visit. Considered the favored deity of Bandipur, pilgrims express deep spiritual satisfaction upon visiting the temple after walking a hundred steps from the ground into the air, leaving behind earthly concerns.
According to temple head Magar Khadka priest Ramkumar Ale, the temple will remain open from seven in the morning to seven in the evening. Initially constructed from mud, the temple transformed the style of King Chandra Shamsher’s palace. The temple is currently adorned with copper.
