The Untold Legend of Bhatbhateni Temple
When someone says Bhatbhateni, most of us instantly picture Nepal’s busiest supermarket. But what if I told you the name carries a much older story — one that involves devotion, betrayal, and even a divine curse? Just a short walk from the bustling Bhatbhateni Supermarket in Naxal, there’s a lesser-known but deeply spiritual site: Bhatbhateni Temple. And the legend behind it is nothing short of fascinating.
The Floating Idols
Locals often say the idols inside the temple don’t touch the ground. They appear to float in the air — a mystery that sparks curiosity in almost everyone who visits. But why does this temple hold such unusual beliefs? To answer that, we need to rewind to a time when Kathmandu looked very different.
Back to Bishalnagar
Long ago, in the area we now call Handigaun, there was a kingdom named Bishalnagar. Living there was an elderly Brahmin couple, both lifelong devotees of Lord Vishnu. Even in their old age, their dedication never faded. Pleased with their faith, Vishnu appeared before them and granted a boon.
The couple asked for a son like Vishnu himself. Vishnu agreed — but with a warning. In their next life, they would get their wish, but they would also live in poverty.
And so, the couple was reborn as Bhat and Bhateni.
A Visitor with a Golden Staff
Despite their poverty, Bhat and Bhateni continued their life of devotion. One day, an old wealthy merchant named Shuddhadev Mahajan appeared at their door. He was on a long pilgrimage, carrying a golden staff forged by melting down his riches.
The couple welcomed him warmly. Touched by their hospitality, Shuddhadev left his staff in their care and went on with his journey.
But life was tough. As years passed, the staff began to rot. When it broke open, they discovered the gold hidden inside. With children to feed and survival at stake, they used the gold.
The Curse That Changed Their Fate
Years later, Shuddhadev returned to collect his staff. Ashamed of what they had done, Bhat and Bhateni lied, saying termites had eaten it.
The old man was furious. He cursed them:
“If termites can eat gold, then an eagle shall snatch away your son. From today, you shall lose the right to walk on this earth. Your feet will never touch the ground again.”
Soon after, their son was carried away by an eagle, and the couple themselves began to float above the ground.
A Divine Twist
Terrified and heartbroken, Bhat and Bhateni cried out to Lord Vishnu. The god appeared once again and told them:
“You must bear the punishment for your lie. But your devotion has earned you a gift — from this day on, people will worship you as Akash Bhairav. Your story will live on, and your temple will remain a place of prayer and faith.”
With that blessing, the locals built the Bhatbhateni Temple, turning their tragic fate into a legacy of divine devotion.
Bhatbhateni Temple Today
Even today, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, people visit the temple to offer prayers. Many believe that wishes made here are fulfilled. For some, it’s about spiritual connection; for others, it’s simply curiosity about the legend of the floating idols.
What makes the place special is how it bridges the past and present. On one side, you see the crowded supermarket — a modern symbol of Kathmandu’s busy life. On the other, you find a quiet temple, holding centuries-old stories that remind us of faith, humility, and consequence.
Why You Should Visit
If you’re in Kathmandu, a quick stop at Bhatbhateni Temple offers more than just a spiritual experience:
- You’ll hear stories that locals have passed down for generations.
- You’ll witness how myths and traditions continue to shape Kathmandu’s identity.
- You’ll discover a deeper layer to a place most people know only as a shopping hub.
So next time you’re near Bhatbhateni Supermarket, pause for a moment. Walk a little further, and step into a world where devotion, myth, and mystery still float — quite literally — in the air.
Final Thoughts
The legend of Bhatbhateni Temple is about more than gods and curses. It’s a reminder that choices have consequences, devotion can transform lives, and every place has a story worth telling.
If you’ve heard a different version of the Bhatbhateni legend, share it — because keeping these stories alive is how culture and history continue to breathe in modern Nepal.