The serene town of Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir has come alive with the commencement of the much-awaited Mela Pat, a three-day annual festival that pays homage to Lord Vasuki Naag Maharaj, the Presiding Deity of Bhaderwah. This vibrant event, which draws devotees from far and wide, began on Wednesday amid great fervor and reverence.
Mela Pat is an integral part of the post-Kailash Yatra celebrations in Bhaderwah and is traditionally held every year on Rishi Panchmi, also known as Naag Panchmi. The festivities kicked off on the first day with the auspicious Jharii procession, commencing from the Ganesh Temple in Bhaderwah at approximately 8 pm. Devotees, accompanied by the melodious strains of devotional songs, made their way to the Vasuki Naag Temple, also known as Vasik Dera.
The second day of the Mela commenced early in the morning with the ceremonial Pat procession. Dashnan, along with a group of mystic men known as Chailas, as well as Bajantaries and devoted worshippers, paraded the revered Pat in front of the Durga Temple, Ganesh Temple, and the Vasuki Naag Temple.
The heart of the Mela unfolds during the next three evenings at 4.30 pm when the Mela Pat is displayed in front of the Durga Temple at Mohalla Khakhal. This provides an opportunity for the public to have Darshan, a sacred glimpse of the deity, alongside Chailas (Mystic Men) and Bajantaries. Devotees express their reverence by showering the pristine Paat with fragrant flowers.
In addition to the religious ceremonies, the Mela is a vibrant celebration of Bhaderwahi culture. Locals and visitors alike join in traditional Bhaderwahi Dhakoo Dance performances and enthusiastically chant Bhaderwahi slogans after the Darshan of the Mela Pat.
This grand spectacle attracts thousands of devotees not only from the region but also from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond. The Mela’s successful execution and arrangements are overseen by the diligent efforts of the Mela Pat Committee, Khakhal Sewa Sang, and Dharmarth Trust.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
