Ancient Mela Patt concludes
Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Sept 5: Thousands converged at historical Khakhal locality here on last day of the ancient three day Mela Patt.
The Mela is being celebrated every year to commemorate the historic meet between Akbar and Raja Nagpal of Bhaderwah in 16th century at Delhi.
Mela Patt festival is devoted to Lord Vaskui Naag, the presiding deity of Bhaderwah Valley, being celebrated on Naag Panchmi every year. This Mela was first initiated by Raja Nagpal in 16th century as the ruler of that small principality called the then Bhaderkashi which is now known as Bhaderwah.
The Mela is organized on the 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 Naag.
On the occasion, people also participated in the traditional Dikko Dance, which makes this festival a symbol of peace, pride and communal harmony. The royal robbing that was presented by King Akbar to Raja Nagpal of Bhaderwah in his honour was also displayed during the ‘Mela Patt’.
Main organizer (known as Dashnan) of the festival, Advocate Naresh Kumar Gupta said that this festival is not only the symbol of religion but also depicts our proud unique heritage and mutual brotherhood. Perhaps this is the only festival of India which is being celebrated since last 600 years without any untoward or ugly incident, which clearly shows communal harmony of this area and respect for Raja Naag Pal irrespective of religion.
On the occasion, people also installed many stalls of eatables, toys, religious books and others at the venue.
Meanwhile elaborate security arrangements were made in and around the venue of festival to thwart any untoward incident.
“I was mesmerized and had goose bumps after witnessing the unique rituals of this ancient culture, this fair which is a symbol of Naag Culture has got all the ingredients to be showcased to the outer world and surely attract national and international visitors. We all try our best to declare this as heritage Mela and will surely make this event a major tourist attraction”, said DDC Doda Dr Sagar Dattaray Doifode.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
