KATHMANDU: Preparations for Bhai Tika, the final day of Tihar, Nepal’s second-biggest festival, have begun at Balgopaleshwor Temple in Ranipokhari, Kathmandu, with painting, cleaning and maintenance work underway ahead of its annual opening to devotees.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City Ward No. 28 has allocated a budget for the renovation and cleaning of the temple premises to ensure a clean and well-managed environment for devotees visiting the shrine on Bhai Tika.
Balgopaleshwor Temple holds special religious and cultural significance during Tihar. Although it remains closed throughout the year, the temple is opened to the public for just one day on Bhai Tika. Traditionally, men who do not have sisters visit the temple to receive tika and blessings.
Ranipokhari, at the centre of which the temple stands, was built during the reign of King Pratap Malla. Constructed in 1671, the temple is an important historical and religious landmark in Kathmandu.
The temple was reconstructed after suffering damage in the 2015 earthquake (2072 BS). Following the reconstruction, it was reopened to devotees on Bhai Tika in 2020 (2077 BS).
On Bhai Tika, devotees begin arriving at the temple early in the morning to offer prayers, receive tika and observe the longstanding religious tradition.
In view of the expected influx of visitors, priority has been given to cleaning and maintaining the bridge leading to the temple, the temple premises and surrounding areas.
The ongoing preparations by Kathmandu Metropolitan City and the ward office aim not only to preserve the historical and religious heritage of Balgopaleshwor Temple but also to ensure the smooth continuation of a unique Tihar tradition.
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