| Nateshwori Temple नाटेश्वरी मन्दिर | |
| Locale: | Triveni Municipality |
| Country: | Nepal |
The Nateshwori Temple (Nepali: नाटेश्वरी मन्दिर) is a Hindu temple of Devi Vagawoti located in the Sudurpaschim province of Nepal Triveni-07 Bajura.[1] This temple is one of the sacred temples of Hindu faith.[2]
The temple considered as the open-air dancing theatre of Lord Shiva-Parvati, also pronounced locally as नाचन्थली (नाच:Dance थली: Theater). This "extensive Hindu temple build in Pagoda style is worshiped mainly for Devi Vagawoti, Dhalpura Devi and Kalika Devi.
[3] The major festivals of the temple are Janai Purnima and Chaite Dashain on the very day devotees form all over Nepal and also from India come to visit.
Though situated on the lap of Badimalika, this temple (नाटेश्वरी) is considered as the belongings (elder sister) of Malika Devi. Rituals of Nateshwori are carried out by two sets of priests; one being the Thakuri priests and other the Bhramin Joshi . Shahi Thakuri of Khirpata and Joshi Bhramin of Belkatte are the ones who performs the ritual and can touch the deity.This temple is opened only during big festivals and on other few special days, the daily rituals of the temple are performed in the Bhandarghar (भण्डारघर) in Thakuribada (ठकुरीवाडा) by Shahi Thakuri priests.
The story of Nateshwori Temple in Bajura revolves around King Dipraj Chatyal, a ruler of the Chatyal dynasty. King Dipraj Chatyal and Jumli Maharaj, another ruler from kallyal dynasty collaborated with a shared vision to build a temple on Mallagiri mountain which is currently known as 'Badimalika Temple'. This temple was dedicated to Satidevi, whose left limbs were believed to be dropped there as a sacred site. Dipraj Chatyal used black gram paste and stone, while Jumli king used copper plate for the construction. The goddess Malika Devi favored Dipraj Chatyal and started offering him 84 varieties of food each day.
Curious about the origin of the mysterious food, Dipraj Chatyal hid to observe. He discovered a mesmerizing lady delivering the food. Enchanted by her beauty, he attempted to capture her. However, the lady transformed into the goddess Malika Devi and cursed the king. The curse proclaimed, "Though you may be seen, you and your descendants shall not meet me again."
feeling remorseful for his actions, King Dipraj Chatyal implored the goddess for forgiveness. In response, Devi Badimalika instructed the king to build a temple in the Nateshwori forest area near his palace, where her elder sister, Devi Vagawati, would also be venerated. Devotees were required to worship Nateshwori Temple after paying homage to Malika Devi, ensuring the fulfillment of their desires. Notably, the temple's surroundings were selected and circled by goddess devine vehicle 'lion' and a black cobra. Following the goddess's guidance, king Dipraj Chatyal established the Nateshwori Temple and began his devotion, leading to the tradition of having Chatyal Thakuri Priests in the temple.
This tale continues to be shared through traditional 'Magal' and chachari songs sung by elderly locals during special occasions, imbuing the goddess's story with a touch of magic.
As a result of this divine encounter and the king's dedication, the Chatyal Thakuri community refrains from directly visiting the Malika Temple. Instead, they offer their respects in the nearby Triveni area without entering the Malika Temple precincts. This enduring practice reflects their deep respect for their history and heritage, influenced by the goddess's solemn admonition and the establishment of the Nateshwori Temple.