Bhoto Jatra: A celebration of tradition and unity in the Kathmandu Valley
Bhoto Jatra is a unique cultural festival celebrated annually at Jwalakhel, Lalitpur dedicated to the deity Rato Machindranath, also known as the God of Rain. This festival is part of the Rato Machindranath Jatra, with Bhoto Jatra marking the grand conclusion.
A Blend of Mythology and Tradition
The festival serves as a cultural and religious celebration, symbolizing prosperity and unity among people. It is a captivating event that showcases the unique blend of mythology, tradition, and spirituality in the Kathmandu Valley.
The Legend Behind Bhoto Jatra
The story behind Bhoto Jatra is both fascinating and integral to its celebration. According to legend, a farmer renowned for wearing a bhoto (vest) received it as a reward for curing the wife of Karkotaka, the snake king who resided under the lake of Taudaha in Kathmandu. The vest, adorned with diamonds, became the farmer’s prized possession.
One day, while the farmer was working in the fields, a Lakhey (fire-burning demon) noticed the vest and stole it when the farmer set it aside. Despite the farmer’s efforts to recover the vest, The ghost escaped capture.
During the Rato Machindranath festival, the farmer suspected that the ghost might appear wearing the stolen vest. When the ghost indeed showed up wearing the vest, a quarrel ensued, and both were brought before King Guna Kamadev for judgment. Without tangible proof, the king entrusted the vest to the deity, and its existence became a mystery.
In subsequent years, the bhoto is publicly displayed by the head of Guthi Sansthan of the Patan division. If anyone can provide proof of ownership, they may claim the vest. Despite numerous attempts, no one has successfully proven ownership, perpetuating the legend and mystery of the sacred vest.
Celebrating Bhoto Jatra
Bhoto Jatra reaches its climax when the sacred bhoto is displayed to the public atop a tall wooden pole called the Yosin Dhunga, located at Jawalakhel in Lalitpur. The event draws a large crowd of devotees and onlookers eager to witness this auspicious spectacle.
The ceremonial revealing of the bhoto is a significant moment, accompanied by prayers, hymns, and traditional rituals. People believe that those who catch sight of the bhoto will be blessed with good fortune.
The Significance of Bhoto Jatra
Bhoto Jatra serves as a testament to the deep-rooted traditions, legends, and cultural tapestry of the Kathmandu Valley. It keeps alive the folklore and engages the community in a shared sense of pride and reverence.
As Bhoto Jatra continues to be celebrated year after year, it not only preserves the legacy of the farmer, the ghost, and the sacred vest but also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of folklore and the importance of cultural celebrations in nurturing a sense of identity and unity among the people.
This year, Bhoto Jatra will be celebrated on the 4th of August at Jwalakhel, Lalitpur, continuing its legacy of bringing people together to honor tradition and heritage. The festival’s enduring charm lies in its ability to blend the past with the present, making it a vital part of the cultural landscape of the Kathmandu Valley.
