Hidimba

Hidimba (Sanskrit: हिडिम्ब, romanized: Hiḍimba) was a powerful demon king who is mentioned in the epic Mahābhārata.[1] He was killed by Bhima and this is recounted in the 9th sub-parva (Hidimba-vadha Parva) of the Adi Parva.[2]

The demon Hidimba lived during a forest along with his sister Hidimbi. While travelling, the Pandavas stopped in that forest to rest while Bhima stood on guard. Hidimba ate human flesh and became eager to devour them. He sent Hidimbi to kill the Pandavas and to bring them back to him. Hidimbi went on his instructions, but her mind changed on seeing Bhima. She assumed the form of a beautiful woman and told Bhima about her brother, whilst also requesting him to marry her.[3]

Hidimba got furious at his sister and rushed towards her to kill her. Bhima interjected Hidimba and challenged him to fight him instead. The sleeping Pandavas woke up on hearing the sounds of them fighting and offered to help Bhima in killing Hidimba but Bhima asked them to watch the duel as spectators. Arjuna reminded Bhima that daybreak was about to set in and that demons become stronger at that time. So, he advised Bhima to kill Hidimba as soon as possible. Thereafter, Bhima ended up crushing and tearing Hidimba into two pieces.[3]

There are a few temples dedicated to Hidimba's sister Hidimbi in Himachal Pradesh.

The most famous temple is the Hiḍimbā Devi Temple in Manali. Some of the sacred objects enshrined here include chariots, footprints and a small statue. Hidimbi is one of the most powerful deities in Kullu Valley. The pagoda-shaped wooden temple, situated in the Deodar forests, has intricately carved wooden doors and wooden shikhara. It is believed to be over 500 years old.

Believers may travel to the town of Kullu to participate in the annual festival of Dussehra, where Hidimbi's chariot leads a rally of gods from all over the Kullu valley, escorting the main chariot of Raghunāth. At the end of the seven-day festivities, on the Lanka Dahan day, sacrifices are made to Hidimbi. Ghaṭōtkaca is also a popular deity in the neighboring Banjar village and Siraj district.

• Hidimba Devi Temple