Gadhimai Temple

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Gadhimai Temple (2)

Gadhimai Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Gadhimai, located in the Bara District of Nepal. The temple is renowned for hosting one of the largest and most controversial animal sacrifices in the world, known as the Gadhimai festival.

History

The origins of the Gadhimai Temple are deeply rooted in local legend and tradition. It is believed that the temple was established several centuries ago, although the exact date is unknown. The temple is named after the goddess Gadhimai, who is worshipped as a manifestation of power and protection.

Gadhimai Festival

The Gadhimai festival is held every five years and attracts millions of devotees from Nepal and neighboring countries such as India. The festival is marked by the mass sacrifice of animals, including buffalo, goats, pigeons, and other livestock. The ritual is performed with the belief that it will bring prosperity and the fulfillment of wishes.

Controversy

The animal sacrifices at the Gadhimai festival have drawn significant criticism from animal rights activists and organizations worldwide. The practice has been condemned for its cruelty and inhumane treatment of animals. Despite the controversy, the festival continues to be a significant cultural and religious event for many devotees.

Location

The Gadhimai Temple is situated in the village of Bariyarpur, in the Bara District of southern Nepal. The temple is accessible by road and is located approximately 160 kilometers south of the capital city, Kathmandu.

Significance

The Gadhimai Temple holds immense religious significance for its devotees. The goddess Gadhimai is believed to possess the power to grant wishes and protect her followers from evil. The temple serves as a major pilgrimage site, especially during the Gadhimai festival.

Efforts to End Animal Sacrifice

In recent years, there have been efforts to end the practice of animal sacrifice at the Gadhimai festival. Various animal rights groups and activists have campaigned for a ban on the ritual. In 2015, the Gadhimai Temple Trust announced a decision to end animal sacrifices, although the practice continued in subsequent festivals.

See also

• Hindu temples in Nepal
• Animal sacrifice in Hinduism
• Bara District
• Kathmandu