To commemorate the historic meet between Mughal emperor Akbar and King Nag Pal of Bhaderwah, the three day annual historic Mela Patt devoted to Lord Vasuki Nag, a presiding deity of Bhaderwah valley and its adjoining areas, started today at ancient Mohalla Khakhal of Bhadarwah.
Mela-Patt—a symbol of Nag culture, is celebrated every year on Nag Panchami and hundreds of people converge at Khakhal Mohallah to pay obeisance to the bravery and spiritual power of Raja Nag Pal.
It is notable that every year hundreds of people from different parts of the UT of J&K irrespective of caste and religion participate in the festival.The festival was first celebrated in the 16th century by King Nag Pal, the ruler of a small principality then called Bhadarkashi presently known as Bhaderwah.
The historic festival is organized seven days after the conclusion of the ancient Kailash Yatra.The traditional ‘Dikko Dance’, a unique folk dance, performed by men and women across the social spectrum makes this festival a symbol of Peace, Pride and communal harmony.
“This festival is not only the symbol of religion but also depicts the proud historical background and mutual brotherhood. Perhaps this is the only festival of India which has been celebrated since the last 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”, said one of the organiser.
For being held after two years of Corona, this year the annual festival witnessed added enthusiasm and fervor. A huge gathering of men, women and children in colour full attires filled the environment with festivity and joy.
DDC chairman Dhanantar Singh kotwal; DDC vice Chairperson Sangeeta Rani Bhagat; DDC member Thakur Yudhvir Singh; ADC Bhaderwah Ch. Dil Mir and other committee members and senior citizens and Police officers were present at the venue to supervise the arrangements.