Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya

Śrī Śantighata Vajradhātu Caitya Mahāvihāra

The Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya, located in Kathmandu, is part of consecrated auspicious water vessels called Ghaḥ. These include Śrī Ghaḥ, Wong Ghaḥ, Na Ghaḥ, Kila Ghaḥ, Nhu Ghaḥ, and Pyanga Than Ghaḥ. The Caitya is known by locals as Śrī Shantighata Vajradhatu Caitya or by other names like Shantighata, Kashi Caitya, and Kashyapa Caitya.

Historical Origin

Licchavi Era (450–750 C.E.): Many historians believe the Caitya dates back to the Licchavi Era, although the exact date is debatable. The sculptures and stupas surrounding the main Caitya suggest it is from this period.

Historical Invasions

  • Nepal has a history of wars, conquests, and invasions that have damaged its heritage and temples.
  • An invasion by the Sultan of Bengal, Samshuddin, resulted in the burning of the Pashupati temple and Svayambhu stupa.
  • To commemorate Svayambhu Caitya and make it more accessible for veneration, locals created replicas.

Additional Structures:

The Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya includes temples and monuments identical to those at Svayambhu. Notable structures include:

  • The temple of Harati (Ajimā Goddess) in Vayu Kona, northwest direction.
  • Āgaṃ, the central shrine, and idols of various deities in the south.

Replica of Svayambhu Mahā Caitya:

  • The Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya is known as Kathe Svayambhu, indicating it was created as a replica of Svayambhu Mahā Caitya.
  • The term ‘Kathe’ suggests the stupa’s structure is made of wood.

Architectural Similarities:

  • The Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya’s main shrine is surrounded by the Panca Buddhas, similar to Svayambhu Mahā Caitya.
  • Amitābha Buddha (Kashyapa Buddha) occupies the main shrine.
  • Other elements such as the Garbagraha, Hermika, and Trayadasi Buvana are also similar to Svayambhu.
  • Initially constructed using wood, these structures were later gilded with gold due to wood’s fragile nature.

Accessibility:

The establishment of the Śrī Ghaḥ Caitya made it easier for residents to venerate Svayambhu within their premises without difficulty.