आस्थाको केन्द्र बन्दै रक्षाबाबा
KAPILVASTU, September 30
The Rakshababa Temple, located in Jahadi of Kapilvastu Municipality–11, is increasingly becoming a major center of faith for local residents. Rakshababa is revered as the deity who protects humans as well as livestock in the area.
It is a tradition to offer milk, bread cooked in clarified butter (ghee), fruits, and other items to Rakshababa upon the fulfillment of a pledge (bhakal). A large stone statue of the local deity Rakshababa is installed at the site.
Part of the statue’s head appears broken, with a hole extending down to the shoulder. The remaining portion of the head features a shape resembling a ram’s horn. An ancient well is also located near the statue.
Locals report finding fragments of red earthenware, brick pieces, and small spherical clay objects scattered around the Rakshababa area. This, according to residents, highlights the historical and archaeological significance of the site.
Local religious leader Ram Shabd Mishra stated that residents make vows to Rakshababa regarding various matters and perform rituals once their wishes are granted. He added that the local community worships Rakshababa with deep reverence as a special deity.
Given the presence of multiple historical and archaeological sites across Kapilvastu, locals have urged concerned authorities to pay special attention to the conservation of such heritage. The Department of Archaeology has also placed an information board in the area.
Ram Gopal Yadav, Ward Chairman of Kapilvastu Municipality–11, informed that a request has been submitted to the relevant authorities for the conservation and archaeological excavation of the Rakshababa area. He emphasized that since approval from the Department of Archaeology is mandatory for any activities at archaeological and historical sites, coordination will be carried out with the department.
Ward Chairman Yadav further shared that the ward office has allocated a budget in the current fiscal year for sanitation and development work in the Rakshababa area.
— RSS (Rastriya Samachar Samiti)
