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`Mela Patt' celebrated with fervour

BHADERWAH (J & K), SEPT. 26. Bhaderwah is one hilly place that is deep-rooted in custom and tradition and has centuries old rich culture of hospitality, fairs and festivals.

Fairs hold a unique place in the cultural history of the region here. August, September and October are the months when the major crops ripen and people celebrate and rejoice.

Of all the fairs that Bhaderwah celebrates, `Mela Patt' is the one that is celebrated with the most fervour. Tradition has it, that Raja Nagpal of Bhaderwah started this festival some time in the 16th century with the blessings of Lord Nag Vasuki.

According to the legend, the Mughal Emperor Akbar had summoned Raja Nagpal at his darbar. Nagpal entered the Darbar hall and took his seat without bowing to the emperor. But before Akbar could take any drastic decision against Nagpal, his ministers tactfully sought Nagpal's appearance at the darbar the next day before the emperor. Raja had a restless night and in a wink of sleep, he saw Nag Vasuki in a dream and got his blessings to attend Akbar's court the next day.

It was decided that Raja would enter the hall through a small window, compelling him to bow automatically. Next day instead of bowing his head, his legs projected from the window. This enraged Akbar, but before the emperor could issue some fatal orders, a hooded serpent appeared in the stately turban of the Raja.

Thinking that Raja was some wizard, he was asked to take off his turban. Before this command could be executed, a dreadful viper with five hoods made its appearance. The emperor's wrath was cooled down. He was impressed by the spiritual powers of Raja. He was accorded his due place and the tribute from him was remitted. He was awarded much wealth from the emperor.

Thus, friendship between Nagpal and Akbar was formed. All the wealth Nagpal received from the emperor was dedicated by him to the royal palace.

`Mela Patt' is celebrated every year at the compound of Khakal Mehalla on the occasion of Nag Panchami to commemorate this incident. The celebrations are held seven days after Kailash Yatra and last for three days.

``Mela Patt is celebrated in remembrance of the spiritual victory of Raja Nagpal over Akbar. Akbar showered the Raja with great wealth when he left his Darbar. The fair goes on for three days every year,'' says M.S. Yogi, a member of the organising committee.

People belonging to all castes including Hindus and Muslims celebrate the three-day fair with much festivity and joy. From far and near, rich and poor, young and old, kith and kin and friend and foes come to take part in the celebrations.

The fair starts 4 am and ends at sunset. Amidst the beatings of drums and blowing of horns, complimented by the harmonious notes of the flute, an energetic person carries the `Patt' or the silk on his head from the house of Raj Guru or the Royal Priest in a procession led by musicians to the dancing compound. -- ANI

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`Mela Patt' celebrated with fervour

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