Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, Sept 1: To commemorate the historic meet between Mughal emperor Akbar and King Nag Pal of Bhaderwah, a three day annual historic Mela Patt devoted to Lord Vasuki Nag, a presiding deity of Bhaderwah valley and its adjoining areas, started today at ancient Mohalla Khakhal here.
Mela Patt a symbol of Nag culture is being celebrated every year on Nagpanchmi and hundreds of people converge at Khakhal Mohallah to pay obeisance to the bravery and spiritual power of Raja Nag Pal.
It is notable that every year hundreds of people from different parts of the UT of J&K irrespective of caste and religion participate in the festival.
The festival was first celebrated in 16th century by King Nag Pal, the ruler of small principality then called Bhadarkashi presently known as Bhaderwah.
The historic festival is organized seven days after the conclusion of ancient Kailash Yatra.
The traditional ‘Dikko Dance’, a unique folk dance, performed by men and women irrespective of religion, caste participated in it, which makes this festival a symbol of Peace, Pride and communal harmony.
“This festival is not only the symbol of religion but also depicts the proud historical background and mutual brotherhood. Perhaps this is the only festival of India which is being celebrated since last 600 years without any untoward or ugly incident, which clearly shows communal harmony of this area and respect for Raja Nag Pal irrespective of religion”, said main organizer of the festival, Advocate Naresh Gupta.
On the occasion, display of ‘Patt’ was also performed.
DDC chairman Dhanantar Singh Kotwal, DDC Vice Chairperson Sangeeta Rani Bhagat, DDC Member Yudhvir Singh, ADC Bhaderwah Choudhary Dil Mir, other committee members, senior citizens and police officers were present at the venue to supervise arrangements.
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