Mother-Goddesses in Kathmandu

The iconography of Nepalese Hinduism is essentially the same as that of Indian Hinduism. There are, however, some important differences between them. One of the most important difference is that Nepalese Hinduism emphasizes the Eight Matrkas: and the Eight Bhairavs. In the Kathmandu Valley one can find many temples which possess the relics or struts depicting the Eight Matrkas: Mahalaksmi Brahmayani (Skt.; Brahmani), Rudrayani (Skt., Rudrani), Camunda, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Indrayani (Skt., Indrani), and Varahi. These images have been kept in good condition; the vehicles of the Matrkas can be clearly seen, and most of the symbols held in their hands have been preserved. These images can thus furnish materials for Hindu iconography in Nepal as well. The struts depicting the Eight Matrkas are often placed together with the struts depicting the Eight Bhairavs: Asitanga, Ruru, Canda, Krodha, Unmatta, Kapala, Bhisana, and Samhara. One can easily identify each of the Eight Matrkas by recognizing the vechicle, since each Matrka is always mounted on the same type of vehicle. This book contains the study of fifteen temples, their structure and history which possess the images of Eight Matrkas. They are kept in good condition and can furnish material for Hindu Iconography in Nepal.