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Baha (Nepal Bhasa:बहाः) is a type of courtyard found amongst Newar communities in Nepal. It is the most dominant type of courtyard in Newari Architecture. Baha is a term for Buddhist Monastery and derives its name from a Sanskrit word Bihara, meaning joy or enchantment and thus is a place of religious bliss.
Characteristics
The characteristics of a Baha are:-
- A square or rectangular space bounded by buildings in all sides
- Surrounding buildings built on a raised platform called Falcha
- Ground paved with brick or stone
- Generally centrally placed Chaitya
- Often presence of a well
- The building opposite to the main entrance generally houses a Guthi with idols of deities in the ground floor
Significance
The baha are generally constructed by a family and their descendants reside in it for generations. Hence, it is not just a unit of residence but also a unit of kinship. The Guthis of Newars have their basis on Baha. So, they play a great role in maintaining the norms of Newari society and lifestyle.
Some Baha
- Bhagwan Baha Thabahi (Thamel Tole)
- Makhan baha
- Sabal Baha
- Tacchya Baha
- Te Bahal
- Mu Baha
- Musya Baha
- Nagbahal
- Kwa Baha
- Itum bahal
- Jana bahal (Machhendra baha)
- Om Baha
- Iku Baha
- Kunsha Baha (Kohsha Baha)
- Tukabaha
- Okubaha
- Na Baha
See also
- Buddhism in Nepal
- Kindo Baha
- List of Mahaviharas of Newar Buddhism
- List of monasteries in Nepal
- List of stupas in Nepal
- Newar Buddhism
- Newari Architecture
- Pranidhipurna Mahavihar
References
- Bahals of The Kathmandu Valley - Sudarsan Raj Tiwari