Rato Machindranath Jatra 2025 in Nepal

In Patan, a grand, colorfully adorned chariot dedicated to the deity Bunga Dyah (Red Machhendranath) is ceremoniously pulled through the city streets. A similar vibrant celebration takes place in Kathmandu during March or April, showcasing deep cultural and spiritual traditions.

Festival Highlights

The Rato Machindranath Jatra, also known as the Bunga Dyah Jatra, is one of the most celebrated festivals in Patan and holds the distinction of being the longest chariot festival in Nepal. Dedicated to the deity Rato Machindranath, revered as the bringer of rain and prosperity, this grand event is deeply rooted in the region's cultural heritage. Each year, the chariot procession draws thousands of devotees and tourists, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of devotion and festivity.

Main Rituals

The festival begins in Pulchowk, where a towering 60-foot chariot is constructed and adorned with garlands and vibrant decorations. Once completed, the idol of Rato Machindranath is ceremoniously transferred from his temple to the chariot. Accompanying him is a smaller chariot known as 'Mimnath.'

Devotees and locals then pull the chariots through the streets of Lalitpur, passing through Natole, Gabahal, Mangal Bazaar, Sundhara, Lagankhel, and Kumaripati before reaching Jawalakhel for the final stop. A few days later, the Bhoto Jatra is celebrated at Jawalakhel, where the living goddess Kumari of Patan graces the occasion, observing the ceremony from a special rest house. After the festivities conclude, the chariot is dismantled, and the idol of Rato Machindranath is returned to his temple in Bungamati.

Dates

The Rato Machindranath Jatra is celebrated according to the lunar calendar, so the dates vary each year. It typically begins on the full moon day of Baisakh (between April and May), marking the start of the festival.

Origins

Rato Machindranath Jatra is celebrated to remember how Kathmandu was saved from a severe drought. The legend says that Guru Gorakhnath, angered by being disrespected in Patan, went into deep meditation on the head of a rain-bringing serpent. This caused a 12-year drought. A Tantrik revealed that the drought would end once the serpents were freed. The king sent for Gorakhnath's teacher, Machhindranath, who, with the help of locals, freed the serpents and brought rain back to the valley. Since then, the festival has been celebrated every year in honor of Machhindranath.

Significance

The Rato Machindranath festival embodies the deep connection between culture, religion, and nature in Nepal. As a powerful symbol of humanity's reliance on life-giving monsoon rains, the Jatra highlights the harmonious relationship between human well-being and the natural world. Celebrated with vibrant processions, traditional music, and lively dance performances, the festival pays homage to the gods for their blessings. It stands as a profound reminder of the interdependence between nature and human existence in Nepalese culture.