TALEJU BHAWANI

Department of Architecture
Nepal Engineering College
Changunarayan, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Affiliated to Pokhara University

Submitted to:
Associate Professor Deepak Pant
Assistant Professor Sweta Amatya Shrestha

Submitted by:
Watsa Shakya
022-244

10 July 2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I'd want to use this time to offer my heartfelt appreciation to the lecturers, school personnel,
friends, and family members that assisted in the creation of my report. Their unfailing
support, counsel, and encouragement have been instrumental in developing the outcome of
this project.
First and foremost, I'd want to thank my outstanding instructors, Prof. Deepak Pant and Prof.
Sweta Amatya, for their essential insights and knowledge. Their extensive expertise of the
subject has been invaluable in widening my comprehension and improving the quality of my
report.
I'd also want to express my appreciation to the hardworking and supportive school
personnel. Throughout my academic career, offered an amazing learning atmosphere. Each
individual, from the administrative staff to the librarians, has played an important role in my
educational experience.
Lastly, I'd want to convey my heartfelt gratitude to my friends who have supported me
through the ups and downs of this endeavours. Their unfailing support, critical critique, and
encouraging words have been a continual source of inspiration. The collaborative talks and
brainstorming sessions that we participated in surely improved the substance of our report.
Finally, I'd want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the teachers, school personnel, and
friends who helped me complete my report. Their advice, support, and encouragement have
been invaluable, and I consider myself extremely lucky to have grown up in such a wonderful
community.
Watsa Shakya

ABSTRACT
Culture and history are knowledge deposits like the sands in river basins, collecting all the wisdom
and achievement as well as the struggles of previous societies that ruled over a specific land and
providing insight to the failures and successes and allowing us to learn from the ancestors' experience
to further advance our own thoughts and insight and foster a sense of cohesion and unity among the
people of the society.

The aim of the study is to study about the architectural importance, cultural significance and history of
Taleju Literature review was done based on secondary data that was available on books and articles,
which were retrieved through google scholar. Various terms related with the titles were searched such
as Architecture, Taleju, Living Goddess, Nepal, Culture and History.

Chapter 1: Proposal
1.1 Introduction

The Taleju Bhawani temple is the most important temple of not only Basantapur Durbar Square but
also one of the Nepali people's most respected temples dedicated to Goddess Taleju Bhawani.
People believe that the temple was built in the shape of yantra, a mysticaldiagram said to have
magical powers, due to a suggestion that came straight from the Goddess Taleju. The Taleju Temple
ranks among the oldest monuments in Hanuman Dhoka Darbar Square. Old notebooks (tyasaphus)
records the construction of a "large temple" during the reign of Mahendra Malla in 1563. It is one of
four significant monuments known to have been built in Mahendra Malla's time in Durbar Square.

The current layout of the temple resembles a cosmic madala which is the intricate dance of the sun,
moon, and other planets around Mount Meru. In Jain cosmology, the Mount Meru/Sumeru is at the
centre of the world surrounded by smaller islands in form of a circle. This very concept was
incorperated into ancient Hindu temple architecture with a shikhar. The main structure has three
levels of roofing and is supported by a base with twelve steps that resembles Mount Meru's lower
slopes. There are sixteen satellite shrines built as two-story Newar towers all around the sanctuary.
The structure's roofs are coated in gilded copper sheets and supported by wooden struts with
carvings of many gods. The four main decorative gates of the temple are guarded by stone lions.
Inside the main Taleju temple itself are golden statues depicting the ten-armed goddess along with
shrines to both Taleju Bhawani and Kumari, Nepal’s Living Goddess. The temple's perimeter is
enclosed by a high wall, through which only the priests may access for most of the year.

Figure 1

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1.2 Background
Goddess Taleju Bhawani is the patron diety of Newari Hindus in kathmandu valley. The goddess was
brought to Kathmandu Valley to the Kathmandu Valley in the 14th century by King Harisimha Deva, a
Karnata king of Tirhut, south of India, who was driven out of his kingdom by Muslim armies. Harisimha
installed Goddess Taleju, who became the house-goddess of the Malla royal family. While the
goddess Taleju was being brought to Nepal from Tulja Bhavani Temple in India, it is believed that a
mythical demon followed her. The ferocious flesh-eating demon was Majipa Lakhe, who was the
protector of the deity. These Bhavani were brought into the valley and first established in Bhaktapur.
After that, the then King Ratna Malla started installing small idols in the form of Taleju Bhavani of
Bhaktapur in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Sankhu, Chapagaun, Kirtipur, Nuwakot, Dolakha, Nala, Panauti
and other places. She remained the tutelary deity for the Malla Kings in all three kingdoms of
Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur and her temple is the most important in each city.

Of the three temples dedicated to Taleju Bhawani in Nepal, the oldest one is in Bhaktapur. Even when
the Malla kingdom was conquered by the Shah rulers, the new kings adopted Taleju as their own new
royal deity in order to prove and cement their legitimacy to the throne.

The Goddess had always been happy with the Malla kings. She would appear in the King's dreams
and play chess with him while giving him counsel on how to rule his country. One Malla king had
sexual thoughts about the Goddess during one of these chess games. The Taleju became enraged
and decided to flee the country. The king, recognizing his mistake begged the Goddess to forgive him.
Taleju Bhawani chose to return, but she declared that she would only appear before the king in the
appearance of a virgin young girl from then on. This is where Nepal's Kumari or Living Goddess, got
her start.

1.3. Justification

The legends associated with the Taleju temple of Basantapur and its aura make it the most
mysterious Taleju temple in the Kathmandu valley. There are several legends telling us why the
Kumari is considered as the manifestation of Goddess Taleju which makes the temple so famous.
Taleju Bhawani is a manifestation of the Nepali goddess Taleju, who is depicted as a strong warrior at
times. Taleju Bhawani is thought to be a manifestation of the warrior deity and is frequently called for
combat protection and success. She is sometimes represented as a goddess holding a sword in one
hand and a severed head in the other, and she is thought to be particularly potent during times of
strife.

Taleju Bhawani is also associated with national pride and patriotism, and she is often invoked during
times of crisis or conflict to protect and strengthen the nation. She is seen as a symbol of Nepal's
sovereignty and a powerful advocate for the country's interests, and many people turn to her for
support during times of national struggle or hardship. Taleju Bhawani plays an important role in
tourism in Nepal, as she is a significant cultural and religious figure in Nepali history and tradition.
There are several temples dedicated to Taleju Bhawani, known as Taleju Temples, across the
country, and these sites are popular destinations for both locals and tourists. In addition, many Nepali
people turn to Taleju Bhawani for spiritual guidance and blessings, and visitors to the temples can
observe the ritual practices and spiritual customs associated with the goddess. This can provide a
deeper understanding of Nepali culture and tradition and offer a unique and memorable experience
for visitors.

Academic Report

1.4. Researched Questions

  Who made the temple?

 Why was Taleju Bhawani brought to Nepal?

 Why is the living goddess worshipped as Taleju Bhawani?

1.5. Aim

 To study about the overall important of the temple, its history and its architecture.

1.6 Objectives

 To describe the history of the temple Taleju Bhawani

 To describe the cultural and religious significance of Taleju Bhawani

1.7 Methodology

The following methods were followed

1. Topic Selection: I have selected Taleju Bhawani as my research topic. Ever since I was little,
I visited the temple of Taleju on the 9th day of Dashain every year. The temple has always
made me curious, and I have always been fascinated by the architecture which made me do
my research on this topic.

2. Literature Review: Through internet browser (opera) and different books in the library.

3. Internet Browser: I researched my topic through Opera searching the history of Taleju
Bhawani and the inspiration behind its architecture.

4. Library Books: I have been through a book in library which helped me with my study naming
“The Temples of Nepal” by Ronald M. Bernier.

5. Proposal Writing: The process included many photos, structural descriptions and
identification of information through the internet

6. Conclusion: In conclusion, through these various processes and informative research, I was
able to complete my study and discover about the history of Taleju Bhawani

1.8 Significance

Taleju Bhawani holds a prominent place in Nepali culture and heritage, and her temples and other
cultural sites provide a rare opportunity for tourists to learn about Nepali history, tradition, and
mythology. Taleju is one of the most significant temples in Nepal, it is a place of worship and devotion
for many Nepalese people. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Taleju Bhawani, who is
considered to be one of the most important deities in the country.

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1.9 Limitations
Taleju is a vast subject and everything cannot be covered in a single proposal. Some limitations of the
projects are :

1. The coverage on the topic of why the Taleju Bhawani is opened only once a year.

2. The subject matter of the remaining two Taleju temples in Bhaktapur and Patan.

3. The history behind why the Taleju Bhawani was brought to Kathmandu.

Figure 2

1.10 Time Frame

Figure 3

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Chapter 2: Literature Review

2.1 Architectural Significance

The temple is one-storeyed. The artworks found in the temple are regarded among best in Nepal. The
temple square consists of two shrines for two female deities, Taleju Bhawani and Kumari. The temple
of Taleju has always been one of Kathmandu' s most sacred spots, traditionally closed to all but the
reigning kings. At present, only Hindus are allowed to go inside the temple and the goddess cannot be
photographed.

Taleju Bhaweni is an architectural and cultural monument in Kathmandu, Nepal. The temple is
dedicated to Taleju, a form of Durga - a Hindu goddess of power, strength, and victory. The temple is
an example of Nepali architectural design, incorporating elements from several different styles,
including the Newari style. The main structure of the temple is a brick-built complex, with an
elaborately decorated entrance porch supported by carved wooden pillars. Inside the temple complex,
there is a main shrine dedicated to Taleju Bhawani. The main shrine is decorated with intricate
carvings and sculptures, with a large statue of the goddess in the center.

The architectural significance of Taleju Bhawani extends beyond its aesthetic beauty. The temple is a
prominent cultural landmark in Kathmandu, and it holds spiritual importance for the people of Nepal.
The temple is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The temple
complex contains a museum and a library, which showcase Nepali cultural heritage.

In terms of significance, these data can help scholars study the various methods and materials used
in the past for the construction of such outstanding architecture, as well as develop new knowledge
about the pros and cons of such a design and the material used, and better make use of it in modern
times through innovation and experimentation.

Figure 4

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2.2 Cultural Significance

Taleju is a revered deity in Nepal, and she is considered to be a form of the Hindu goddess Durga.
Taleju is associated with power, strength, and victory, and she is often depicted standing on the back
of a lion or a tiger. In Nepali culture, Durga is believed to have the power to defeat demons and bring
prosperity and stability to the world. She is also associated with feminine strength and the ability to
overcome obstacles.

Taleju has a significant cultural importance in Nepal, and she is revered throughout the country. She
is considered to be a protector of the Nepali people, and she is often called upon during times of crisis
or danger. Her celebrations include the offering of flowers, fruits, and sweets, as well as the playing of
traditional Nepali music.

In addition to her religious and cultural significance, Taleju is also an important symbol of Nepal's
national identity and sovereignty. She is often depicted as a warrior, holding a sword and wearing a
crown, and she is regarded as a symbol of the nation's independence and resilience.

2.3 Historical Significance

Taleju Bhawani is associated with the history of the Newar community in Kathmandu, Nepal. The
Newars are a group of people who have lived in the Kathmandu Valley for many centuries, and they
have their own unique culture, language, and religious traditions. Taleju Bhawani has been an
important part of Newar culture and religion for centuries.

One of the most notable historical events associated with Taleju Bhawani is her role in the unification
of the Kathmandu Valley by the Malla dynasty rulers in the 12th century. In one of the earliest known
records of Taleju Bhawani, she is said to have provided support to King Manadeva, who was trying to
unify the region. According to this story, Taleju Bhawani promised to help the king in exchange for a
temple to be built in her honor. This temple eventually became known as the Taleju BhawaniTemple,
which remains a significant cultural and religious landmark in Kathmandu today.

Another important event in the history of Taleju Bhawani is her role in the unification of Nepal by
Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century. During this time, Taleju Bhawani was believed to have
appeared in a dream to King Prithvi Narayan Shah and instructed him to unite the various kingdoms
of Nepal into a single nation. In honor of this dream, King Prithvi Narayan Shah created the national
flag of Nepal with an image of Taleju Bhawani's face.

Overall, Taleju Bhawani has played a significant role in the history and culture of Nepal, and her
legacy continues to be celebrated and revered by many people in the region.

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Chapter 3: Conclusion
3.1 Conclusion

In conclusion, the architecture and artworks found in the temple are regarded among best in Nepal.

The data can assist scholars in researching the various methods and materials used in the past for
the construction of such outstanding architecture, as well as developing new knowledge about the
pros and cons of such a design and the materials used, and better utilizing it in modern times through
innovation and experimentation. The stupa's architecture, ceremonies, and related behaviours add to
its cultural significance, making it a treasured and cherished location in Nepalese society.

Recommendation

 The temples of Nepal' by Ronald M. Bernier

 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/
File:Taleju_Bhawani_Hanumandhoka_Durbar_Square_Kathmandu_Nepal_Rajesh_Dhungnaa_(
1).jpg

 https://worshiptemples.blogspot.com/2016/07/taleju-temple.html

 https://www.lekbesi.com/temple/taleju-bhawani-temple/

 https://www.namastebhaktapur.com/destination/taleju-bhawani/

 https://hinduaesthetic.medium.com/taleju-bhavani-c71e4e2b8de7

 https://www.thelongestwayhome.com/travel-guides/nepal/kathmandu/taleju-temple-
kathmandu.html

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title of report

Acknowledgement

Abstract

1. Chapter 1: PROPOSAL Pg No

1.1. Introduction 6

1.2. Background 7

1.3. Justification 7

1.4. Related Questions 8

1.5. Aim 8

1.6. Objectives 8

1.7. Methodology 8

1.8. Significance 8

1.9. Limitations 9

1.10. Time Frame 9

2. Chapter 2: Literature Review

2.1 Architectural Significance 10

2.2 Cultural Significance 11

2.3 Historical Significance 11

3. Chapter 3: Conclusion 12