20/07/2026
The Legend of Kirtimukha: The Face of Glory
Guarding the Threshold of Bhairabsthan, Palpa
The striking, monster-like face carved above the entrance of the Bhairabsthan Temple is Kirtimukha—a sacred guardian whose story originates from the Skanda Purana.
The Origin: Born from the blazing wrath of Lord Shiva’s third eye, this terrifying creature was created to punish an arrogant demon. When the demon begged for mercy and was spared, the creature was left with an insatiable hunger.
The Ultimate Sacrifice: Lord Shiva commanded the creature to satisfy its hunger by devouring its own body. Demonstrating absolute obedience, it consumed itself from tail to torso until nothing remained but its face.
The Divine Decree: Deeply impressed by this supreme act of surrender, Shiva named it Kirtimukha ("Face of Glory") and declared that it would forever guard the entrances of his shrines.
Spiritual Message for Pilgrims:
As you cross the threshold into the divine presence of Lord Bhairab, Kirtimukha symbolically devours your ego, pride, and impurities. It serves as a powerful reminder to leave all worldly negativity at the door and enter the temple with a pure, humble heart.
