The Dance of Nayata Bhulu Ajima - A Sacred Dance Part I
Nayata Bhulu, a name that only a few ditizens of this valley know the meaning and location of once held high ranks in the sites of Kathmandu. Today, this area is known as Naradevi- one of many change of addresses that occurred after the occupation of Kathmandu Valley by Prithivi Narayan Shah. Nyata means centre, Bhulu means protector. As per Devmala Chronicles, the goddess of Nyata Bhulu was established by King Gunakamadev.
He is credited by numerous chronicles as the founder of the city of Kantipur. Chronicles states that he shaped the city in the outline of a sword- to be precise, the sword of Boddhisatva Manjushree. Historians have long emphasised the need for good research to better understand and preserve this unique culture of Kathmandu. “ As most meaning and symbolism of various temples and monuments in this valley are passed down orally, it is open to being highly twisted or misinterpreted. In the case of Nyatabhulu Ajima, we do not have any concrete inscription, script or cross-citations to create an authentic narrative. The Devmala Chronicle states that the area of Nayatabhulu is the ‘centre’ of the city. But other chronicles state how the city of Kantipur was founded with Kanteshwor Mahadev, today known as Aakash Bhairav, as its centre.” said Shreyashka Maharjan, a sociologist and cultural archivist.
The dance of Nayata Bhulu Ajima is a unique spectacle to behold. It is performed annually. But, once in 12 years- it is performed on a larger scale. This year was the year of the grand presentation. When performed annually, 12 deities are invoked, whereas in the 12-year show, 19 deities are invoked they are as follows:
1. Su:tha Maju (Lokeshwor/ Karunamaya)
2. Nyata Bhulu
3. Bhairav
4. Chandeshwari
5. Ganesh
6. Brahmayani
7. Rudrayani
8. Narayani
9. Kumari
10. Barahi
11. Indrayani
12. Mahalaxmi
13. Simhini
14. Byangini
15. Kumar
16. Chanashur Daitya (Demon)
17. Mahadev (Lord Shiva)
18. Dhwa (Tiger)
19. Khicha (Dog)
Legends state that the temple and goddess were established during the reign of Gunakamadeva, but the performance/ dance was initiated by King Amar Malla. Local experts mention that King Malla held Nayata Bhulu Ajima in high regard and credited her for his military victories against his neighbouring kingdoms. Thus, to honour her, he facilitated various rituals and sacred dances to be conducted annually to memorialise her for countless generations.
We shall explore various facets of dance in the next blog.