Jaya Bageswori Temple, Kathmandu

Jaya Bageswori Temple, located in Kathmandu, is a significant religious site with a rich historical and cultural heritage. The temple, named after the goddess Jai Bageshwari was originally built in the pagoda style characteristic of the Licchavi period. It suffered damage during the earthquake of 2015 and is currently undergoing reconstruction in its original architectural style.

Jai Bageshwari is a composite form of the tantric goddess, embodying aspects of Mahalakshmi, Mahakali, and Mahasaraswati. The goddess is depicted with a shield and sword representing Mahalakshmi, a mirror symbolizing Saraswati, and a Mugdal indicating Mahakali. The temple's deity is linked to mythological origins involving a journey from Mansarovar, crossing the Shila river during the Vdapar era to settle in Devpatan.

Significant in the local cultural practices, the temple is the focal point of several rituals and festivities. It hosts the dance of Navdurga, sourced from Bode village, where participants dance all night in front of the temple's main dabli. Traditional events include the lighting of fires in the month of Poush and the display of Trishul Jatra in Ashadh. Additionally, the temple sees a cleaning and repainting ceremony every twelve years, and a buffalo sacrifice occurs once every twelve years as part of its rituals.

The temple is also associated with legends of divine retribution. It is said that a thief who once stole ornaments from the temple was rendered mute and unable to move until the stolen items were discovered and returned. This has fostered a belief that those who steal from the temple will be struck dumb.

Historically, the temple was reportedly built by Kaulik Bhim Singh. It underwent a significant restoration on Phagun Shukla Pratipada in 1492 BS, commemorating the tragic death of Jayasthiti Malla's wife. Worship at Jaya Bageswori Temple is conducted according to tantric rituals, underlining its status as a major center of spiritual and cultural significance in the Kathmandu Valley.