The deity Beta Dyo (बेतद्य) serves as a charioteer in front of Bhairav Nath‘s chariot, which is drawn at Bhaktapur’s Biska Jatra celebration. Bhairav Nath, who enjoys violence and blood, resides in Beta Dyo. Beta Dyoa is usually kept at Lord Bhairav‘s feet for people’s wellbeing and defense against evil powers and misfortune. In order to observe the Biska Jatra being held in Bhaktapur and to look for Goddess Bhadrakali , Kashi Bishwanath traveled to Nepa Valley in human form. Kashi Bishwanath was beheaded when the Tantrics of Nepal recognized him as he was witnessing the Jatra and attempted to stop him.We now refer to that chopped head as Bhairav Nath. When Bhairav Nath failed to return, Beta Dyo, a young seven-year-old child selling oil, traveled to Nepal in pursuit of Bhairav.
This god is regarded as the son of Manandharas since he was selling oil in this manner. A folktale describes Beta Dyo as a nasty youngster who frequently threw people from ladders, slapped sleeping people, and ruined cooked food. Because of this, the Beta Dyo is always restrained. It is kept by bending it over the head when it cannot be folded, even after being tied up. The Manandharas carry the Beta Dyo knotted in this manner and put it in Bhairav Nath’s chariot.
When Tibetans first arrived in Nepal with the goal of subjugating the country, they had no idea where they were headed. As they asked onlookers, they arrived in Bachamari (बाचामारी) and turned to face Bhaktapur. Beta Dyo, a young child, was using one hand to “Haste” (“हस्ते”) and draw Bhairavnath’s chariot while using the other to “Haste” (“हस्ते”) and elevate the litter. What will happen to us if everyone shows up if one person is that powerful? It is stated that Beta Dyo, the charioteer of life, is revered and positioned in front of the chariot during the Biska Jatra since the Tibetans were terrified and fled.
Key Aspects of Beta Dyo in Bhaktapur:
A prominent and ferocious deity of Bhaktapur, Beta Dyo (also called Betal) is closely linked to the Biska Jatra (Bisket Jatra) celebration. The following are the salient features of Beta Dyo:
Function in Biska Jatra: Beta Dyo is regarded as the “Divine Charioteer” or protector positioned on the front of Lord Bhairavnath’s (Vavnat) chariot at his feet.
Significance: During the festival, which is renowned for its fierce, competitive chariot procession, he is worshipped to shield the locals from bad luck, unfavorable events, and confrontations.
Mythological Origin: According to legend, Betal is a naughty little child from the Manandhar community who is extremely strong and causes chaos by tipping over food.
The Deity’s Appearance: The idol, which resembles a small kid, is made of specific wood (Brahmasi/vun tree) and is typically plated in copper plates and a copper mask.
Location: Because the deity is typically kept “restrained” due to his mischievous disposition, he is associated with a special, secure courtyard (Beta Dyo Choke) within the Puba mansion, even though he is active during the Jatra in Taumadhi Square.
Members of the Manandhar community carry the Betal Idol, which is thought to be extremely powerful and often shown dragging the chariot with just one finger, during the Biska Jatra (Bisket Jatra).
As an odd kid, Betal (Beta Dyo) used to visit play areas where other kids were having fun. However, no one knew the child’s origins, and if they were curious, he would vanish right away. The infant reportedly had a well-built body and a really lovely face with brilliant eyes.
People claim that Bhairav was preventing him from engaging in further pointless activities.
Additionally, it is thought that the most prevalent child in Biska Jatra may be Beta Dyo‘s manifestation.
