Yala Panchadaan: Celebrating Centuries of Compassion and Generosity in Patan
Kathmandu – Every year, in the sacred month of Gunla (mid-July–mid-August), the ancient city of Patan, locally known as Yala, comes alive with vibrant processions, centuries-old rituals, and heartfelt acts of giving. Known as Yala Panchadaan, this unique Buddhist festival blends tradition, devotion, and social harmony in a celebration that has endured for more than 700 years.
The Origins and Meaning of Panchadaan
“Panchadaan” literally translates to “five gifts.” These gifts, typically rice grains, paddy, wheat, fruit, and salt are offered to alms seeking Buddhist monks and priests in a ritual act of charity believed to accumulate merit, promote spiritual growth, and ensure wellbeing in this life and the next. Over time, the offerings have expanded to include money, nuts, dry foods, and other necessities, depending on the donor’s capacity and goodwill.
The roots of this tradition date back to Nepal Sambat 512. According to legend, during the reign of a king in Patan, a humble woman’s small donation was graciously accepted by a visiting monk, Dipankar Buddha, while the king’s lavish offerings were initially declined. Inspired, the king took up metalwork to earn his own money and later made donations from his earnings, which was viewed as an act that is said to have inspired generations of charitable giving during this festival.
A Festival Centered Around Dipankar Buddha
At the heart of Yala Panchadaan is the veneration of Dipankar Buddha, the ancient sage who prophesied the coming of Gautam Buddha. During the festival, five large statues of Dipankar Buddha are taken out from different Vihars (monasteries) and paraded barefoot through the streets of Patan. Accompanied by traditional Gunla music and chanting, this sacred procession is a mesmerizing sight for locals and visitors alike.
These processions, besides honoring the Buddha, serve as a public display of cultural heritage. Buddhist antiques, scrolls, and statues, normally housed within temples, are displayed in homes and courtyards, giving the community and pilgrims an opportunity to reconnect with their spiritual and historical roots.
Celebration in Patan
On the day of Yala Panchadaan, Shakyas, Bajracharyas, and other members of the Buddhist Newar community prepare charity centers within their homes or neighborhood chowks. From these stations, they distribute food and offerings to roving monks and priests throughout the day. Participants chant hymns, engage in prayer, and take part in acts of almsgiving as a form of spiritual purification and service.
Households often cook “kheer” (rice pudding) as part of the offering, linking the festival with broader Nepali cultural practices observed during Shrawan. It’s also common for people to invite friends and family over for meals, extending the spirit of sharing beyond religious boundaries.
Beyond Patan: A Valley Wide Celebration
While Patan hosts the most iconic celebration, Panchadaan is also observed in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Kirtipur, Panauti, Banepa, and Thimi, albeit on different dates. Each city adapts the celebration according to local traditions. For instance, in Bhaktapur, five Dipankar Buddhas from five separate monasteries are gathered for a grand procession that culminates in a collective offering at Taumadhi Square.
The processions in Bhaktapur also include Gunla Dha musical performances and rituals at the Adipadma Mahabihar in Suryamadhi. Like in Patan, these events highlight the deep spiritual connection between the community and their monastic heritage, even as monastic Buddhism has largely faded in Nepal.
A Festival of Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Yala Panchadaan is more than just a religious observance. It is a powerful symbol of compassion, humility, and service. It upholds the Vajrayana Buddhist philosophy practiced by the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley, particularly the principle that enlightenment can be attained within this very life through right conduct and spiritual effort.
As society modernizes, the essence of this festival remains timeless. By encouraging mindful giving and preserving ageold rituals, Yala Panchadaan continues to inspire people across generations to make life more meaningful and not just for themselves, but for others too.
