3 day Mela Patt begins in Bhaderwah

Bhaderwah Sep 08: Three-day annual holy Mela Patt, devoted to Lord Vasuki Nag, the presiding deity of Bhaderwah valley, began on Sunday evening with full religious fervor and gaiety.

To commemorate the historic meet between Mughal emperor Akbar and King Nag Pal of Bhaderwah, three day historic Mela Pat started at ancient Mohalla Khakhal of Bhaderwah.

Mela Pat- a symbol of Nag culture, is celebrated every year on Nagpanchmi and hundreds of people converge at Khakhal Mohallah to pay obeisance to the bravery and spiritual power of Raja Nag Pal.

The festival was first celebrated in 16th century by King Nag Pal, the ruler of small principality then called Bhadarkashi presently known as Bhadarwah.

The historic festival is being organized after 7 days of conclusion of the Kailash Yatra in which thousands of people drawn from different parts of the state and elsewhere participated to take blessings of Vasuki Nag.

The traditional Dikko Dance, a unique folk dance, was also performed, which is a regular feature of the festival and people irrespective of religion, cast and gender participate in it, which makes this festival a symbol of Peace, Pride and communal harmony.

Ashok Kumar, Manager Dharmarth Trust said that this festival is not only the symbol of religion but also depicts our proud historical background and mutual brotherhood. Perhaps this is the only festival of India which is being celebrated for last more than 600 years without any untoward or ugly incident, which clearly shows communal harmony of this area and respect for Raja Nag Pal irrespective of religion.

On the occasion, display of 'Patt' was performed with complete the rituals. The royal robbing that was presented by King Akbar to Raja Nagpal of Bhadarwah in his honour was also displayed during the ‘Mela Patt’.

On the occasion, people also installed many stalls of eatables, toys, religious books and others at the venue.

Manoj Kotwal, a Nag devotee from Bhadarwah said, "I have been watching this festival since my childhood but every time I see the Patt, I get completely mesmerized and had goosebumps after participating in the unique rituals of this ancient culture, this fair which is a symbol of Nag Culture has got all the ingredients to be showcased to the outer world and surely can attract national and international visitors.”

Another Nag Devotee, Sharat Koul (54) said "This is an indication of post modernism that's why young generation is returning to its roots. I enjoyed our tradition and this is one of the most enjoyable experience of my life and I simply loved it. We hope all people get blessings of Lord Vasuki Nag during this auspicious festival."