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BOOK REVIEW |
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BOOK REVIEW |
Depiction Of Deities Dhurba K. Deep offers an
incisive account of the gods, goddesses and religious symbols of Nepal By A CORRESPONDENT Although Nepal is known far and wide as a country of 330 million gods and goddesses and countless religious symbols, only a few people have made an effort to select the popular deities and symbols and explain their significance. Dhruba K. Deep, a well-known Nepali poet, researcher and cultural analyst, has taken a laudable initiative in this direction. Nepalese and foreigners alike face problems in identifying and locating popular deities in the culturally resplendent valley. Thanks to Deep, a widely traveled author, the people can learn about the historical and religious aspects of the gods and goddesses that enliven the valley. "This is an interesting monograph written by Mr. Deep dealing with a number of minor divinities and religious symbols of Nepal, where Hinduism and Buddhism have grown side by side for more than two thousand years," writes late Lain Sing Bangdel, former chancellor of the Royal Nepal Academy, in the preface. "The real significance and meaning of religious emblems which are immersed in local myths and traditions, are not easily explained in religious texts, and yet they are found almost everywhere in Nepal, particularly in the Kathmandu valley." Deep provides a brief history and account of major and minor deities in a handy monograph. There are many deities, which have their own myths, beliefs and fascinating stories. Since most of the minor deities and gods are integral part of the local culture, they symbolize many things. In presenting the accounts of the local deities and images, Deep has cited the most reliable books available in the market. The author explains his subject with a remarkable comprehension of the underlying meaning of the deities and images that are integral part of the mental make-up of the Nepalese people. Starting with an account of Ganesha, Deep goes on to write about the religious and cultural importance of Kumary, Bramha, Vishnu Vikrant, Indra, Krishna, Laxmi, Hanuman and Saraswati. Among the gods and goddesses, Deep has written on Mhakala, Five Dyani Buddhas, Amoghaps Lokesworara. Among the small deities, Deep has explained Chakwa Dyo, Bheemasena, Shree Yentra, Satokna and Bungadyos. From the importance of the Shiva Linga to Garuda, a mythical man-bird, and snakes, Deep has gone through almost all important gods and goddesses of Kathmandu valley. From Khyak and Kankal to demons, Deep explains the importance of the netherworld to religious rituals. Deep also provides an account of Red Tika, turtle, cows and other elements used in religious acts. In the religious and cultural rituals of Kathmandu valley, people worships them regarding as an integral component of the rituals. At a time when students of religious history have difficulty in finding monographs and accounts of gods, goddesses, deities and demons related to the rituals of the valley, Deep's book will definitely establish itself as a valuable resource. Popular Deities, Emblems and Images
of Nepal |
Send your feedback to the
editor: spotligh@mos.com.np |
