Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadeva – literally ‘greatest god’ – is one of the most revered deities in Nepali culture and Hinduism. Unlike other gods with specific birth stories, Shiva’s origins are wrapped in myth, emphasising his timeless nature. He represents the cosmic forces of creation, preservation, and destruction, central to his role as the Supreme Being in the Hindu trinity, or Trimurti – the triad of the three gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
In Nepal, Shiva is often depicted as a meditative yogi seated on Mount Kailash, his divine abode, a sacred pilgrimage site. His calm posture, covered in the white ashes of cremation grounds, reflects his deep connection with the cycle of life and death. He is not just the destroyer but also the one who ensures transformation and regeneration. He is often called Neelkanth, which refers to the blue-throated deity who drank poison during the churning of the ocean to safeguard creation.
Shiva’s relationship with his consort, Parvati, is vital to many Nepali traditions. Parvati, or Shakti or Durga, embodies feminine energy, balancing Shiva’s masculine force. Their union is celebrated during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, where devotees perform rituals to honour their bond of love, devotion, and cosmic balance.
Shiva’s iconic representation includes the crescent moon on his head, the Ganges River flowing through his locks, and the third eye on his forehead, symbolising his wisdom and destructive power. The trident he holds represents the three qualities -gunas of nature: sattva -goodness, rajas -passion, and tamas -ignorance.
With temples dedicated to him across Nepal, including the famous Pashupatinath temple, Lord Shiva remains a central figure in the spiritual lives of Nepalis. His teachings on meditation, self-realisation, and the cyclical nature of existence inspire millions.
Pratikshya Bhatta is a junior editor with Nepal Connect
