Myths & Legends
Ancient tales of divine intervention, broken vows, and the protective power of Goddess Supadevi
The Legend of the Lahure Soldier
The most famous legend associated with Supa Deurali tells the story of a Nepalese lahure—a soldier serving in the British or Indian army—who made a sacred vow to Goddess Supadevi before departing for distant lands.
The Story
Before leaving for military service abroad, the soldier prayed at Supa Deurali Temple and vowed to offer a golden chain to the goddess if she protected him and brought him safely home. Years passed, and the soldier survived many dangers, eventually returning home with wealth and honors.
However, upon his return, the lahure forgot his sacred promise. Thinking he could pass by the temple unnoticed, he attempted to take a secret route to bypass Supa Deurali. But the goddess, who never forgets a vow, miraculously trapped him in stone right at the temple's cliff wall.
To this day, a stone figure known as "the Lahure" stands affixed to the rock face near the shrine, serving as an eternal reminder of the importance of keeping one's word to the divine.
The Lesson
This powerful legend teaches several important spiritual principles:
- Honor Your Vows: Promises made to the divine must be kept
- Divine Accountability: The goddess sees all and holds devotees to their word
- Humility: Wealth and success should not lead to spiritual pride
- Faith & Truth: Devotion requires honesty and commitment
The Tale of the Baise-Chaubise Princess
Another ancient legend connects Supa Deurali's origins to a tragic royal wedding during the Baise-Chaubise era—a time when Nepal was divided into numerous small kingdoms.
The Tragic Story
A princess from Balrampur, India, was married to a prince of Khanchikot. During the wedding procession back to Arghakhanchi, caste disputes erupted among the royal party. The distress and conflict became so severe that the young princess, overwhelmed by grief and dishonor, reportedly took her own life at this very mountain site.
Following her death, villagers in the region began falling mysteriously ill. A local shaman was consulted, and he proclaimed that the deceased princess had transformed into a protective Devi—a divine guardian spirit—and demanded to be worshipped.
In response, the people founded the shrine of Supa Deurali at the site of this tragedy. The princess's spirit became associated with Goddess Supadevi, and offerings were made to appease her and seek her protection. Over time, the shrine grew into the magnificent temple that stands today.
Cultural Context
This legend reflects several important aspects of Nepali culture and Hindu belief:
- The transformation of tragic spirits into protective deities
- The importance of honoring those who died in distress
- The belief in divine feminine power (Shakti)
- The practice of establishing shrines at sites of significant events
Additional Beliefs & Miracles
Beyond these main legends, Supa Deurali is associated with numerous beliefs about the goddess's protective powers:
Protection for Travelers
Pilgrims believe that praying at Supa Deurali before a journey ensures safe passage and protection from harm.
Wish Fulfillment
Sincere vows (bhakal) made at the temple are believed to be granted by Goddess Supadevi, especially regarding health, prosperity, and family wellbeing.
Divine Justice
The legend of the Lahure soldier teaches that the goddess holds devotees accountable—broken promises bring consequences.
Healing Powers
Many devotees report miraculous healings and answered prayers after visiting the temple with pure devotion.