BHAGAWAN PASUPATHINATH OF NEPAL
The Seat of Chaturmukha Siva

ARCHAMURHI

Lord Maheswar in the name of Pasupathinath is worshipped here in the form of linga. It is about three and half a feet in height and is installed on a .high pedestal. The august linga has four faces sculptured on four sides. Each is a sculptural marvel, and its facial features are beautifully executed. All the four faces seem exuding compassion to the devotees, but to the wicked and vicious, they strike terror and send them to Mrithyuloka. Of the four, the one facing the south has a characteristic terrific aspect. The wicked are mortally afraid to look at it even for a split second. It is roudra that emanates from it for them when looked at it. The pitiless mood it represents caused death in some cases. There is a story current that Mukundsen, a remorseless invader, who raided and plundered Kathmandu, with a sword in one hand and fire in the another looked at this face, when came to destroy it. A straight look at it shook him to his foundation, as chill passed through his spine instantaneously. Unable to stand its fierceness, he mounted his horse and dashed off for home. Alas, his corpse alone reached home. Such is the terror the face strikes to the wicked, but for the virtuous, it emits rays of compassion and sends thrills of bliss. The priests offer several kinds of prayer services to the presiding deity as done to its counterparts in India. Hours spent in the campus seem like a fleeting moment and it leaves an indelible impression on the minds. And the visitors lock it up in their minds to be cherished for ever. A visit lifts! A sight emancipates!! And th6 memory recreates the whole sublimity in a flash and plunges one in ecstatic raptures of blissful joy, if recalled.

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