The idol residing in the Dolakha Bhimsen Temple is considered unique compared to others because it secretes "sweat" from time to time. This phenomenon remains a supernatural mystery that has not yet been fully explained from a scientific perspective. Local priests and devotees firmly believe that this sweat appearing on the idol's surface is not merely common dampness or an environmental effect. This sweat appears only at specific times and is often interpreted as a premonition of some significant event. It is claimed that this perspiration appears on the left side, the right side, or sometimes over the entire body of the idol.
When sweat appears on the left side of the Dolakha Bhimsen idol, it is interpreted as an inauspicious sign for the Nepalese people. According to traditional belief, this sweat is a forewarning of impending calamity upon the country and its citizens. It is said that historically, such occurrences have often been followed by natural disasters, epidemics, famines, or other tragic events. It was claimed that the idol sweated prior to the devastating earthquake of 2072 B.S. (2015). Similarly, locals and priests recount seeing such signs before other major natural disasters and national tragedies. These events have instilled deep faith and belief in the idol among the general public.
It is believed that sweating on the right side of the idol carries a different meaning. Sweat on the right is viewed as a premonition of a crisis facing the ruling class or the government. In Nepal's history, the idol is said to have sweated on the right side preceding political upheavals, changes in power, accidents involving the King or Prime Minister, or other governance crises. This belief is deeply rooted in Nepalese society, and many people take this phenomenon very seriously. Even political leaders and members of the ruling class frequently visit this temple to offer prayers and seek Bhimsen’s blessings.
The phenomenon of the Dolakha Bhimsen idol sweating has been recorded numerous times in history. According to old records and oral history, these occurrences have coincided with major national events. Mentions of the idol sweating can be found regarding significant events during the Rana regime, political changes during the Panchayat era, and times of democratic movements. It is said that the idol gave signs before historic events such as the People's Movement of 2046 B.S. (1990), the Second People's Movement of 2062-63 B.S. (2006), and the earthquake of 2072 B.S. (2015). All these instances have further solidified people's belief in this mysterious phenomenon.
Attempts have also been made to provide a scientific explanation for this mysterious event. Some scientists have tried to link it to environmental humidity, temperature changes, or the specific properties of the metal used in the idol. However, these explanations have failed to fully answer the question of why the sweat appears only at specific times and in specific places. On the other hand, faithful devotees regard it as a miracle of Bhimsen and a divine sign. For them, this is not a scientific occurrence, but a symbol of the actual presence of God and His concern for humanity. This conflict between science and religion remains unresolved.
The Dolakha Bhimsen Temple remains filled with devotees throughout the year. Special worship services are held particularly on Saturdays and Tuesdays. During Dashain, special pujas and festivals (Jatra) are organized at the temple, attended by thousands of devotees. Businessmen come here to pray for the prosperity of their trade, students for success, and the general public for the resolution of their problems and for peace and happiness. There is a custom of offering animal sacrifices, lighting lamps, and performing special pujas at the temple. Devotees come to pay homage not only from all over Nepal but also from India and other countries.
The phenomenon of the Dolakha Bhimsen idol sweating has
become an integral part of Nepal's religious and cultural history. This mystery
has not yet been fully unraveled and perhaps never will be. Nevertheless, this
phenomenon has continued to instill a sense of faith, belief, and vigilance in
Nepalese society. People accept it as a divine sign and hold deep reverence for
it. Even in the scientific age, such mysteries occupy a special place in human
life and belief. The Dolakha Bhimsen Temple and its mysterious idol stand as an
invaluable treasure of Nepal's religious heritage.