KATHMANDU: Bhairav, so fierce that it's kept hidden from the public eyes, is unveiled for the first time this year. Located at Basantapur near Hanumandhoka, Swet Bhairav is an approximately 10-foot-tall, gilded mask believed to represent the fiercest and most formidable manifestation of Lord Shiva.

Swet Bhairav is hidden behind a wooden latticed screen throughout the year. It is believed that the statue should be kept hidden, as it needs to be worshipped following tantric methods. Throughout the year, the mask remains concealed behind a wooden latticed screen. According to the tradition, it must remain hidden and be worshipped through tantric rituals. While a small portion of the screen is opened for regular visitors, the full image of Swet Bhairav is revealed only three times a year: during Indra Jatra, Bada Dashain, and Chaite Dashain.

During Indra Jatra, Swet Bhairav is displayed to the public for the longest period, remaining visible throughout the festival. A pipe is placed in the deity's mouth to distribute Newari rice beer (Thwon) and liquor (Aila) as prasad. Devotees believe that receiving these offerings brings good health, prosperity, and the blessings of Swet Bhairav. The distribution of Thwon and Aila continues throughout the Jatra, with one day traditionally reserved exclusively for women to receive the offerings. The association of Swet Bhairav with Indrajatra is believed to date back to the installation of the statue by King Rana Bahadur Shah in 1852 BS, around the month of Bhadra, when the festival is celebrated. It is widely believed that those who behold the full face of Swet Bhairav will be protected from major illness and misfortune.