BHADERWAH, Sep 16: The three-day historical Mela Patt, a traditional religious and cultural festival associated with the legendary meeting between Mughal Emperor Akbar and Raja Nagpal of Bhadarwah, began here today with religious fervour and enthusiastic participation.
Thousands of devotees and visitors from different parts of the region participated in the celebrations, which are dedicated to Lord Vasuki Nag, the presiding deity of the Bhadarwah Valley. The annual festival is traditionally held after the conclusion of the Kailash Yatra and is associated with the observance of Nag Panchmi.
According to local historical accounts, the Mela Patt tradition dates back to the 16th century, when Raja Nagpal ruled the small principality then known as Bhadarkashi, now Bhadarwah.
A distinctive feature of the festival is its inclusive character, with people from different communities participating in the celebrations. The traditional Dhaku dance, a unique folk dance of the area, is also performed during the Mela.
Socio-political leader Mast Nath Yogi described Mela Patt as an important traditional festival of Bhadarwah, saying that the fairs and festivals of the region have contributed significantly to its cultural heritage. He noted that the festival, held at Khakhal, a centrally located locality of Bhadarwah town, has medieval origins and is traditionally organised immediately after the Kailash Yatra.
According to the popular legend associated with the festival, Raja Nagpal refused to bow before Emperor Akbar during his visit to the Mughal court in Delhi, stating that he bowed only before his revered deity, Lord Vasuki Nag. The legend further recounts that Raja Nagpal later demonstrated the divine power of his deity before Akbar, following which the emperor acknowledged his devotion and honoured him.
On returning to Bhadarwah, Raja Nagpal is believed to have publicly displayed the gifts and wealth presented to him by Akbar. Local tradition associates this event with the beginning of the annual Mela Patt celebrations.
This year, the participation of thousands of devotees and tourists has added to the scale of the festivities. The seasonal celebrations also provide economic opportunities for local residents as pilgrims and tourists visit Bhadarwah during the period, supporting local businesses and livelihoods.
The festival further showcases the region’s traditional cultural practices, religious customs and community participation, making it an important part of Bhadarwah’s cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been put in place by the local administration to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the three-day Mela.