Forgiveness ritual performed at Palanchok Bhagawati Temple after idol 'sweats'

A ritual seeking forgiveness, known as Kshama Puja, was performed at the Palanchok Bhagawati Temple in Nepal after devotees reported seeing sweat on the idol during a recent evening aarti.

Ward Chairperson Ram Kaji Shrestha confirmed that the ritual was conducted following the unusual observation. The Palanchok Bhagawati Temple, located in Panchkhal Municipality-9, is a significant Shakti Peetha, a sacred shrine dedicated to the divine feminine. Following the sighting, the idol was bathed, and special prayers were offered according to tantric traditions.

According to local religious beliefs and folklore, sweat appearing on the idol is interpreted as a precursor to divine calamity or political crisis. Residents recall similar signs preceding significant events such as the 2015 earthquake, the 2024 floods and landslides, and the 2001 royal massacre. The recent flood in the Sunkoshi River on August 26 was also viewed by locals within this context.

A priest conducted secret rituals as part of the Kshama Puja, aiming to appease any divine displeasure indicated by the phenomenon. The event highlights the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and the way natural or unusual occurrences are interpreted within the local cultural framework.

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The ritual was performed after devotees noticed sweat appearing on the idol during the evening aarti.