Rato Machhindranath Jatra || Day 3 || Mangal Bazar to Sundhara || 2081

Rato Machhindranath, also known as Bungadya or Karunamaya, holds a central place in the religious and cultural life of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. This deity is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, symbolizing the rich syncretic traditions of the region. Believed to be an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism, and linked to the Hindu god Matsyendranath, Rato Machhindranath is primarily associated with rain and agriculture, essential elements for the agrarian communities in the valley.

The annual Rato Machhindranath Jatra, a grand chariot festival, is the most prominent event dedicated to this deity. Held in the spring, the festival can last for several weeks, involving a series of elaborate rituals and ceremonies. The main attraction is the construction and procession of a massive, beautifully decorated chariot that is pulled through the streets of Patan, an ancient city in the Kathmandu Valley. This chariot procession is believed to invoke rain and ensure a bountiful harvest, reflecting the deity's significance in ensuring agricultural prosperity.

Throughout the festival, various neighborhoods participate in the procession, highlighting the communal spirit and the integration of diverse communities in the celebration. The culmination of the festival is marked by the Bhoto Jatra, a special ceremony where a sacred jeweled vest, or bhoto, is displayed to the public. This event not only signifies the end of the festival but also adds a layer of mystery and excitement, as the origins and ownership of the vest are subject to local legends and folklore.

Rato Machhindranath's main temple is located in Bungamati, a small village near Patan, which is considered the deity's original home. Another significant shrine is situated in Patan itself, serving as important pilgrimage sites for devotees. These temples are not just religious centers but also cultural landmarks that attract visitors from around the region and beyond.

Overall, Rato Machhindranath represents the deep interconnection between religion, culture, and agriculture in Nepalese society. The deity's worship through vibrant festivals and rituals underscores the importance of compassion, community solidarity, and the hope for prosperity, making Rato Machhindranath a vital figure in the cultural heritage of Nepal.