![Devotees performing a traditional dance during Mela Paat in Bhaderwah on Wednesday. —Excelsior/Tilak Raj Devotees performing a traditional dance during Mela Paat in Bhaderwah on Wednesday. —Excelsior/Tilak Raj](https://cdndailyexcelsior.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/page9-2-14.jpg)
Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Sept 20: Mela Paat, organized every year for three days, started here today at Mohalla Khakhal.
Devotees from across J&K are participating in the Mela, which is devoted to Lord Vasuki Naag Maharaj, Presiding Deity of Bhaderwah.
This Mela is organized after the conclusion of Kailash Yatra in Bhaderwah every year on Rishi Panchmi (Naag Panchmi).
On 1st day, Jharii moves from the Ganesh Temple (Bhaderwah) at around 8 pm to Vasuki Naag Temple (Vasik Dera) amidst chanting of devotional songs by devotees.
Next day, at early in the morning the Paat is taken in front of Durga Temple, Ganesh Temple and Vasuki Naag temple by Dashnan along with Chailas (Mystic Man), Bajantaries and Devotees.
For next three days in the evening at 4.30 pm, the Mela Paat is taken in front of Durga Temple at Mohalla Khakhal for public to have Darshan along with Chailas (Mystic Man) and Bajantaries.
During Darshan devotees pours flowers on the pristine Paat. Likewise, locals and outsiders celebrate and perform traditional Bhaderwahi Dhikoo Dance along with Bhaderwahi slogans after Mela Paat Darshan.
Thousands of devotees from across J&K and outside pay obeisance to the deity and witness this marvelous fair.
All necessary arrangements and conduct of Mela is organized by Mela Paat Committee, Khakhal Sewa Sang and Dharmarth Trust.