Patan’s Neku Jatra-Mataya festival concluded at Nakabahil
The vibrant Newar community of Lalitpur, known as Patan, celebrated the Neku Jatra-Mataya on the third day of the dark fortnight of Shrawan (August) which was yesterday. This festival, also known as the “festival of lights,” is a colorful procession that winds its way through the city’s numerous shrines.
Thousands of devotees, both men and women, participated in the Matya parade, carrying a variety of offerings. These offerings included traditional items such as rice, grains, money, sweets, incense, and guru patras, but participants could offer any items of significance. A particularly significant offering is the lamp, which is believed to symbolize the enlightenment achieved by overcoming the Maras (temptations).
The origins of Matya are rooted in the legend of Shakya Muni Gautam’s attainment of Nirvana. The Maras, jealous of his determination, attempted to distract him through various forms of temptation. However, Shakya Muni remained steadfast and eventually overcame the Maras, becoming the enlightened Buddha. It is said that the Maras later confessed their sins to Buddha and worshipped him, marking the beginning of this festival.
The Matya parade is a meticulously organized event, with different neighborhoods of Patan taking turns hosting the procession every ten years. This year, the Matya parade started from Nakabahil, and next year’s turn will be Hakha. A unique tradition associated with the festival is the Naubaja Khalah, a team of traditional drum players who perform exclusively during the Matya celebrations. And one of the most striking elements of the festival is the procession of dancers dressed as laakhe (khyala), damsels, and other masked figures, embodying the Maras.
Matya is not just a religious festival but also a cultural spectacle that showcases the rich traditions and vibrant spirit of the Newar community in Patan. A moving aspect of the festival is the participation of families who light candles and offer prayers for their lost loved ones during the procession.
