Badimalika Sanctuary, located in Bajura area of Seti Zone, is an important temple in Nepal dedicated to Bhagwati. Every year, a major festival called Malika Chaturdashi is celebrated here. The temple is looked after by two priests, one from Kalikot area and the other from Bajura region.
According to Hindu mythology, Sati Devi, the wife of Lord Shiva, immolated herself when her father Daksha Prajapati insulted Shiva. Enraged by her death, Shiva carried her burnt body across the world. As her body parts fell, they became sacred places known as Shakti Peethas. Legend has it that her left shoulder fell in Mallagiri mountain, which later came to be known as Malika.
Another legend tells of a demon named Mahisasur whom Bhagwati defeated. After resting at Dwaredhunge in Kalikot, she provided food to a hungry man who then wished harm upon his family. Bhagwati granted his wish, but later fled when he turned violent. She moved through various places, eventually settling in Badimalika. Pilgrims follow this route to visit the temple.
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