The Rato Machindranath Jatra is steeped in rich legends and historical narratives that intertwine religious, cultural, and social elements. The background story of Rato Machindranath, also known as Karunamaya, is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, making the festival a unique convergence of both faiths.
The Legend of Rato Machindranath
The legend of Rato Machindranath revolves around the deity’s association with rain and agricultural prosperity. According to the most popular version, a severe drought afflicted the Kathmandu Valley many centuries ago. The people were desperate for rain, and traditional prayers and rituals failed to bring relief. Seeking a solution, the king of the valley, often identified as King Narendra Deva or King Narendradev of Bhaktapur, consulted his priests and astrologers, who advised him to invite the rain god Machindranath to the valley.
The story continues that the king, along with a group of priests and the royal priest Bandhudatta, embarked on a journey to Assam (now a state in India), where Machindranath was believed to reside in the form of a young farmer named Gorakhnath. Another version suggests they traveled to Kamaru Kamachya, a region associated with tantric practices. The farmer was recognized as the human incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion in Mahayana Buddhism, and also revered as the rain god Machindranath.
Upon finding Machindranath, the group convinced him to accompany them to the Kathmandu Valley. As Machindranath entered the valley, it is said that Gorakhnath, who had trapped the nine serpent kings (Nāgas) under his seat, stood up to pay respect to the deity. The Nāgas, released from their imprisonment, immediately brought rain, ending the drought and saving the valley from famine.
To honor the deity and ensure his continued blessings, the people of the valley decided to celebrate the arrival of Machindranath by building a chariot and holding a grand procession. This marked the beginning of the Rato Machindranath Jatra, a festival that continues to be celebrated annually in Lalitpur with great devotion and enthusiasm.
The Cultural and Religious Syncretism
Rato Machindranath Jatra is a unique example of syncretism, blending elements from both Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hindu tradition, Machindranath is considered an incarnation of the god Vishnu or Shiva, depending on the sect. He is associated with the harvest and is worshipped as the god of rain and crops. In Buddhism, he is identified with Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, also known as Karunamaya.
This dual identity of Rato Machindranath reflects the deep cultural and religious intermingling that characterizes the Kathmandu Valley. The festival is a time when both Hindus and Buddhists come together to worship the deity, transcending religious boundaries. The chariot procession, rituals, and prayers are conducted with equal reverence by followers of both religions, highlighting the shared cultural heritage of the community.
The Role of Gorakhnath
Gorakhnath, a key figure in the legend, is an important deity in Nepalese culture. He is believed to be a powerful ascetic and is revered as the founder of the Nath tradition, a Shaivite sect. The story of Gorakhnath trapping the Nāgas under his seat symbolizes control over the natural elements, including rain, which is crucial for agriculture. The release of the Nāgas upon Machindranath’s arrival signifies the restoration of the natural order and the onset of the monsoon.
The worship of Gorakhnath during the festival is an important aspect, symbolizing the connection between the heavens and the earth, the divine and the mundane. The festival’s rituals often include prayers and offerings to Gorakhnath, acknowledging his role in ensuring the well-being of the people and the land.
Historical and Archaeological Evidence
The exact historical origins of the Rato Machindranath Jatra are difficult to pinpoint, as the festival’s roots are deeply entwined with myth and legend. However, historical records suggest that the festival has been celebrated for over a millennium. Some historians believe that the festival’s origins can be traced back to the Licchavi period (400-750 CE), while others argue that it became more established during the Malla period (1200-1769 CE), when the Kathmandu Valley saw significant developments in art, culture, and religion.
Archaeological evidence, such as ancient manuscripts and inscriptions, supports the long-standing tradition of the festival. The construction techniques and styles of the chariots, as well as the rituals performed, reflect a blend of indigenous Newar culture with influences from Indian and Tibetan Buddhism.
Symbolism and Rituals
The rituals and symbols associated with Rato Machindranath Jatra are rich with meaning. The chariot itself is a symbol of the cosmos, with its towering spire representing Mount Meru, the mythical mountain at the center of the universe in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmology. The journey of the chariot through the city represents the deity’s journey through the world, bringing blessings and protection to the people.
The festival also features various other rituals, such as the display of the sacred vest during Bhoto Jatra, which symbolizes the protection and blessings bestowed upon the people by the deity. The presence of traditional music and dance during the procession represents the joy and celebration of the community, as they express their gratitude and reverence for the deity.
Summary
The background story of Rato Machindranath Jatra is a captivating blend of legend, religion, and history. It highlights the deep cultural and religious roots of the festival and its significance in the lives of the people of Lalitpur and the broader Kathmandu Valley. The festival not only serves as a religious observance but also as a celebration of the community’s identity and heritage, reflecting the rich tapestry of Nepal’s cultural and religious landscape.
As the festival continues to be celebrated annually, it remains a powerful symbol of the enduring traditions and resilience of the Newar community. It is a testament to the cultural richness and diversity of Nepal, and a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting these traditions for future generations.
