KATHMANDU: A month-long fair has kicked off at Aadinath temple in Chovar Hill of Kathmandu.
The fair starts on the day of Ashwin Shukla (Kojagrat) Purnima and runs until Kartik Shukla Purnima. Devotees from the Kathmandu Valley and other surrounding districts take part in the fair. There is a belief that visiting the temple during the fair brings family happiness and prosperity, and helps one get rid of fear, diseases, and troubles.
Built by Lichchhabi King Amshuverma, the temple has historical and archaeological significance. The temple houses an idol that reflects the combined form of the Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati which is called Ardhanarishwor (Aadinath). Both Hindu and Buddhist followers have faith in the temple.
Hindu followers worship Aadinath as Shiva Shakti, and Buddhist followers worship Aadinath as Aanandadi Lokeshwor. Buddhists respect and worship the deity as a symbol of compassion and Hindu people as Aadinath. Buddhist people believe that meditating on Lokeshwor will bring longevity and wealth and prevent premature deaths. Local people of Kirtipur say that the devotees of both Hindu and Buddhist followers have an inseparable relationship with the temple.
Flags, various utensils, and ornaments are offered after conducting a Sapta Satwo puja in the temple.
