Author: Rupesh (This article is also written by Mero Nepal App.)
1. Introduction: Shri Pashupatinath – A Nucleus of Faith and National Heritage
Shri Pashupatinath Temple, nestled on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, stands as an unparalleled center of faith for Hindus in Nepal and across the globe. Revered as the ‘Lord of all beings’ and the national deity of Nepal, the temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries, Pashupatinath Temple has not only preserved religious faith but has also kept alive Nepal’s cultural, historical, and spiritual identity.
The historical reverence and patronage of Nepali monarchs towards Pashupatinath have been noteworthy. Rulers from the Licchavi period to the Shah dynasty have significantly contributed to the temple’s preservation, promotion, and worship rituals. This royal devotion established Pashupatinath not merely as a place of worship but as a symbol of national unity and cultural pride. The tradition of considering the king as a divine entity and his devotion to Pashupatinath is believed to have forged a spiritual bond between the ruler and the ruled, thereby strengthening national unity.
In this context, a significant question arises: Was there a tradition of daily Kshama Puja (Forgiveness Prayer) at Pashupatinath Temple during the reign of King Birendra and other kings for national welfare, ensuring peace, prosperity, and progress in the country? This article will focus on exploring this historical and faith-based subject, discussing the meaning, importance, historicity, and current status of Kshama Puja. The fact that royal worship at Pashupatinath might have played a role in cultural diplomacy, especially with India, given the tradition of appointing Indian Bhatt priests, cannot be overlooked.
2. Kshama Puja: Meaning, Significance, and Scriptural Basis in Hindu Philosophy
The word “Kshama” holds profound meaning in Hindu philosophy. It signifies not just forgiveness for mistakes but also tolerance, patience, compassion, and magnanimity of the heart. Ancient scriptures like the Manusmriti and the Mahabharata regard Kshama as an excellent human virtue, emphasizing its importance, especially for rulers. Sayings like “Kshama Virasya Bhushanam” (Forgiveness is the ornament of the brave) highlight its dignity. The general purpose of Kshama Puja is to seek forgiveness from deities for intentional or unintentional wrongdoings, and to protect the nation and its citizens from natural calamities, pandemics, or any national crises and obstacles. This puja is a humble plea made before the gods for any errors committed knowingly or unknowingly by an individual or community, with the aspiration that negative forces are pacified and positive energy flows. According to Hindu belief, Kshama positively impacts individual and community well-being (shreyas). If a nation or community collectively embraces the principle of Kshama, it helps reduce internal conflicts and promote reconciliation. Forgiveness mitigates feelings of anger and retribution, lessening social tensions and divisions, thereby creating a conducive environment for national progress and peace. Thus, the practice of Kshama plays a crucial role in laying the foundation for peace and prosperity at a national level.
3. Historical Reflections: Kshama Puja and Royal Rituals at Pashupatinath During the Monarchy
Faith in Pashupatinath and royal rituals has held a significant place in the history of the Nepali monarchy. From the Licchavi period to the Shah dynasty, kings have worshipped Pashupatinath as the national deity, and royal involvement in the temple’s protection and operation has been continuous. Various historical records and traditions show that Nepali kings performed special worship services at Pashupatinath for national welfare.
Regarding Kshama Puja, it appears to have been predominantly performed during times of major national crisis, natural disasters, before the commencement of significant construction projects, or after any disruption in regular worship, for purification and to seek divine permission. For instance, in February 2021 (Falgun 2077 BS), the then President participated in a Kshama Puja before the installation of a golden Jalahari (water receptacle) on the Shivalinga of Pashupatinath. Similarly, there is historical evidence of Bhatt priests performing Kshama Puja when the temple’s daily Nitya Puja was interrupted for some reason. These events demonstrate the practice of Kshama Puja, although these were special, circumstantial rituals rather than daily royal Kshama Pujas. During the reign of King Birendra as well, various religious ceremonies were conducted at Pashupatinath under royal patronage. However, concrete historical evidence or records specifically detailing King Birendra or other kings performing Kshama Puja on a daily basis for national peace and prosperity are not clearly found in the currently available research. The concept of “Raj Guthi” (state-sponsored religious trust) confirms royal protection and involvement in temple management, but the specificity of daily Kshama Puja is difficult to ascertain from this. It is possible that the aspiration for national welfare was integrated into other Nitya (daily) or special royal worships, or that a particular puja was, over time, understood or remembered as “Kshama Puja.” Nevertheless, the tradition of Nepali kings continuously praying to Pashupatinath for the welfare of the nation and its people remained vibrant.
4. Nitya Puja at Pashupatinath: An Unbroken Spiritual Flow
Pashupatinath Temple has maintained an established and unbroken tradition of Nitya Puja (daily worship) for centuries, reflecting the temple’s vitality and spiritual power. This Nitya Puja is performed in various stages, mirroring the depth of devotion and dedication to Lord Shiva.
The daily worship at Pashupatinath begins at 4 AM when the western gate of the temple opens. First, Lord Pashupatinath is awakened and bathed. Following this, worship is conducted with various offerings, ranging from Balbhog (morning food offering) to special Abhishekas (ritualistic bathing). The Shivalinga is bathed with water, milk, honey, ghee, sugar (Panchamrita), etc.. During the puja, Vedic hymns, Shiva Stutis (praises), and various mantras are chanted. The chief priests (Bhatta) and assistant priests (Rajbhandari) perform all these worship procedures according to their respective responsibilities.
Throughout the day, Bhog (food offerings) is offered to the Lord at different times, and the temple remains open for devotees’ Darshan (viewing). The evening Aarati (ritual of lights) is a significant and captivating aspect of the Nitya Puja at Pashupatinath. During this Aarati, held on the banks of the Bagmati River, the glory of Lord Shiva is sung, lamps are lit, and special prayers are offered. Importantly, there is a tradition of praying for the welfare, peace, and prosperity of the nation, all Nepali people, and the entire world during this evening Aarati. This encompasses the sentiment of praying for national welfare, which aligns with the user’s core query. The spirit of welfare for the nation and all beings might be inherently embedded within the entirety of Nitya Puja, even if explicit evidence for a separate daily royal ritual named ‘Kshama Puja’ is lacking. The purpose of every puja is to pacify negative forces and promote positive energy, and as an integral part of Hindu worship methodology, it is also customary to offer a Kshama Prarthana (prayer for forgiveness for any errors in the puja) at the end of most pujas.
5. The Present Context: Continuity, Transformation, and Challenges of Kshama Puja
After the end of the monarchy in Nepal, the nature of state-level pujas and rituals at Pashupatinath has undergone some changes. Certain special worship previously attended by the King are now performed by the Head of State or government representatives, or in some cases, these traditions have taken different forms.
The Pashupati Area Development Trust (PADT) currently holds the responsibility for the temple’s management and operation. The Trust has been undertaking various tasks for the conservation of the temple’s physical structure, management of worship services, and facilitation for devotees. However, PADT’s decisions have sometimes led to controversies. For example, during the installation of the golden Jalahari on Pashupatinath’s Shivalinga in 2021, a Kshama Puja was performed. However, the Panchanga Nirnayak Samiti (Calendar Determination Committee) itself raised objections regarding the timing (during Shukra-asta, an inauspicious period for such rites) and method of the puja, alleging a breach of scriptural rules. This incident highlights the conflicts and challenges that can arise between traditional religious practices and modern institutional management. Such disputes underscore the need to maintain a balance between ancient traditions and modernity.
There is no clear information about a daily Kshama Puja being performed at a national level at Pashupatinath currently. However, on special occasions, such as before major construction or renovation work, or during events of national importance, Kshama Puja or Shanti Puja (peace prayer) might be conducted. Nevertheless, the direct and regular involvement of the Head of State in specific royal rituals, as was common during the monarchy, has observably diminished. If traditional royal rituals, believed to be for national welfare, have been discontinued or altered, it is a matter of consideration what impact this has had on public faith and the collective consciousness regarding the nation’s spiritual well-being.
6. Forgiveness, Peace, and National Progress: A Universal Necessity
The belief that “Every country should perform Kshama Puja daily, only then will there be happiness, peace, and progress in the country” reflects the universal importance of forgiveness, tolerance, and collective prayer. While Kshama Puja might be a symbolic act, the sentiment it embodies – acknowledgment of faults, a desire for purification, and prayers for well-being – is essential for every society and nation.
Religious rituals can play a significant role in promoting social harmony, mental peace, and national unity. When people gather for a common faith and purpose, a sense of brotherhood and unity is awakened among them. The prayer for “the betterment of complete humanity” during Pashupatinath’s evening Aarati encapsulates this very spirit. Such prayers disseminate positive energy within individuals and society.
A nation’s progress is not limited to material development alone; spiritual and ethical values are equally important. Virtues like forgiveness, compassion, tolerance, and a sense of collective well-being contribute to building national character. A national spirit of forgiveness (whether expressed through puja or policy) can pave the way for reconciliation and progress by learning from past mistakes. Such an environment fosters trust among citizens and strengthens national unity, which is essential for sustainable peace and prosperity. In current times, where many nations globally are experiencing internal and external conflicts, the concept of “Kshama Puja” could potentially be reinterpreted as a symbolic policy for national reconciliation and peace-building.
7. Conclusion: The Light of Faith and Nepal’s Spiritual Future
The discussion on the historicity and significance of Kshama Puja at Pashupatinath for national welfare yields several important conclusions. Although concrete and direct evidence of kings performing daily Kshama Puja is limited, the tradition of offering special worship and prayers at Pashupatinath for the welfare of the nation and its people is deeply intertwined with the history of the Nepali monarchy and Pashupatinath. The Nitya Puja, especially the evening Aarati, incorporates prayers for the well-being of the entire world, reflecting the core sentiment of Kshama Puja.
The traditions associated with Pashupatinath, whether Kshama Puja or other Nitya and Naimittika (occasional) rituals, are invaluable treasures of Nepal’s cultural and spiritual identity. These traditions promote positive values in society and help maintain national unity and identity. With changing times, there is a need for the preservation, promotion, and timely interpretation of such spiritual traditions. May this light of faith continue to illuminate Nepal’s and Nepalis’ spiritual future, and may the grace of Lord Shri Pashupatinath always bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to the country.
Other such important information will be available from/can be found on the Mero Nepal App.
Works cited
1. Pashupatinath Temple – Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupatinath_Temple
2. Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal’s Sacred Heart of Shiva Worship | Top Nepal Information, https://top-nepal.com/pashupatinath/
3. Lord Pashupatinath: History & Importance of Pashupatinath Temple – Rudraksha Centre, https://www.rudraksha-ratna.com/articles/lord-pashupatinath
4. Exploring the Historical Significance of Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, https://joshitours.org/exploring-the-historical-significance-of-pashupatinath-temple-in-kathmandu-nepal/
5. Import Duty – Outlook India, https://www.outlookindia.com/making-a-difference/import-duty-news-239521
6. Kshama: Significance and symbolism, https://www.wisdomlib.org/concept/kshama
7. Kshama – Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshama
8. What is the Kshama Prarthana mantra? How to recite it? – Housing, https://housing.com/news/kshama-prarthana-mantra/
9. Shiva Kshama Prarthana Mantra | Mantras and Chants | shivknowledge.com, https://shivknowledge.com/media/mantras-and-chants/shiva-kshama-prarthana-mantra
10. Pashupatinath Temple | The Holiest Hindu Temple in Nepal, https://www.nepalindependentguide.com/pashupatinath-temple/
11. Sacred Nexus of Nepal in Hindu Mythology: Representation and Significance in Sanskrit Scriptures, https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/academia/article/download/73355/56134/212925
12. कान्तिपुर दैनिक [Kantipur Daily] – 26 Feb, 2021 – Ekantipur epaper, https://epaper.ekantipur.com/kantipur/2021-02-26/
13. Latest News on pashupati – ANI News – Asia’s Premier News Agency, https://aninews.in/topic/pashupati/page/11/
14. ecommons.cornell.edu, https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/1da30c21-1729-4f29-abb6-f56de8423675/content
15. Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Pashupatinath Temple – Rudrahouse, https://rudrahouse.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-before-visiting-pashupatinath-temple
16. Pashupatinath Temple: Complete Guide for Indian Pilgrims (2025) Darshan and Timings, https://nevedholidays.com/pashupatinath-temple-complete-guide-for-indian-pilgrims-2025-darshan-and-timings/
17. My humble prayer to Lord with 108 names – Times of India, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/warrior-princess/my-humble-prayer-to-lord-with-108-names/
18. Pashupatinath Evening Prayers, Bagmati Aarati, Pashupati Aarati …, https://orientaltreks.com/pashupatinath-evening-prayers/
19. Pashupati Area Development Trust – Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashupati_Area_Development_Trust
20. Pashupati Area Development Trust, https://www.pashupati.gov.np/
