The historical Narasimha Jatra, which has been running since the time of Malla King Siddhinar Singh Malla of Lalitpur, has been completed.

Narasimha Jatra, which is conducted in Patan every year on the day of Bhadra Krishna Panchami, was completed on Tuesday this year.

This Jatra is celebrated with the wish that no divine calamity will happen and peace will be maintained in the world.

The Rajopadhyaya community of six clans of Lalitpur, based on their seniority, take turns to take responsibility for the entire management of the Jatra.

This year, the family of Bhupati Rajananda Rajopadhyay of Agnishala Vahlimha conducted the Jatra.

This Jatra is held to commemorate the mythological incident of Lord Vishnu taking the form of Narasimha and slaying the demon Hiranyakashipu.

Narasimha's form is taken around the ancient city of Lalitpur along with bazagaza and bhajan troupe. There is a special tradition in this Jatra of going round the city while turning towards Narasimha with incense in hand and bowing like a devotee Prahlada.

It is customary to place Lakshmi and Saraswati on the right and left of Narasimha, while six pairs of girls also participate in the Jatra.

There is a tradition of one of the priest, son-in-law or nephew of the family taking the form of Narasimha and circumambulating the ancient city of Lalitpur on the Saya, i.e. Saparu Marg.

During the Narasimha Jatra, the team of Narasimha Devgan, with music and live bhajans, circumambulate various places in Patan including Gabhal, Pimbal, Bangalamukhi, Kobhal, Mangalbazar, Sundhara, Ikubhal, Mahabuddha, Tangal, Tichchu Galli, Hougal, Ikhalkhu, Purnachandi.

During the Jatra, there is also a custom of worshiping the deities including Nrisimha at various places. During Narasimha Yatra, there is also a special tradition of Narasimha carrying cloth dolls on his back.

During the Jatra, it is customary to present dolls made of this cloth to children. There is a religious and cultural belief that dressing a cloth doll in this way protects children and is good for them.

Narasimha is believed to have two different forms in Lalitpur. Nrisimha performed in Kartik dance is considered as a fierce form, while Nrisimha of Upalakan Saya is considered as a calm Nrisimha.

According to historical documents, it is mentioned that Narsingh Jatra has been being conducted since Nepal Samvat 751 i.e. Vikram Samvat 1688.

This Jatra, which carries religious and cultural significance, has continued to be an original cultural tradition and living heritage of Lalitpur till today.

Published: 17 Bhadra 2083 19:05 Wednesday