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Kathmandu Monday October 08, 2001 Ashwin 22, 2058.
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Renovation of Akash Bhairav
temple in full swing
By Perina Pathak
KATHMANDU, Oct 7 – The renovation work of
Akash Bhairav Temple at Indrachowk is going on war-footing to revive its historic charm.
And, the concerned officials say they will
complete the renovation of the century-old temple by April next year.
This historical monument was in a dilapidated
condition for many years until the locals themselves initiated the renovation works last
year. Thanks largely to Akash Bhairavnath Guthi, Kathmandu Metropolitan Corporation, local
ward committee and local religious organisations.
"After the renovation, the temple will get
its original look, like it was before 1910," says Bikas Bhakta Shrestha, chairman of
the Akash Bhairavnath Renovation Committee and the local ward committee. The added
attraction after the renovation will be the balcony, which was discarded during the
renovation 60 years ago by the Ranas, according to Shrestha.
And, the ten Astamatrika paintings, kept in
Khopi (hole on the wall) behind the big Bhairab statue, will be changed to respective
stone statues, Shrestha said.
The Malla period monument, which is situated in
the heart of the capital, was last renovated in 1939. But in course of construction, the
Ranas had discarded its balcony and replaced the original stones.
But the historians are still confused about when
the three-and-half–storey-temple of deity Bhairav, the fierce form of Lord Shiva, was
first constructed. It is believed that the temple came into existence along with the
origin of the Kathmandu City in 11th century. However, evidences such as the names of King
Pratap Malla and King Narendra Malla carved on the stones found in the temple depict that
it was built around that time.
"About 60 per cent of the renovation work
has already been completed and we hope everything will finish by Chaitra (April 13),"
says Shrestha.
His Majesty King Gyanendra, on his visit to this
temple a month ago, had asked the renovation committee to complete the renovation by
Chaitra.
Shrestha said the renovation of windows and
walls has been completed, except the remaining finishing works. "The renovation of
roof-top is only left to be done," adds Shrestha.
After the completion, there will be extra rooms
for security personnel, water pipes and electricity. "One of the extra rooms will
also be used for traditional parties," says Sharad Kumar Dongol, secretary of the
renovation committee.
To ensure its original look and maintain its
historical significance, the committee has changed only the fallen and damaged woods.
"Even if we had to replace them, we have hand-crafted the new woods with original
form so that the monument will not loose its age-old charm," says Dongol.
"After the renovation, ground floor will be
given on rent for shopkeepers like before, which will later help the temple sustain
financially," he said.
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