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The Kathmandu Valley annually celebrates the chariot festival, or Jatra, in honor of Yogi Matsyendranath, a tradition that dates back over 1600 years. Lasting for two months, from Baisakh Shukla pratipada to Asar Shukla Chauthi, this festival holds immense cultural and religious significance, according to cultural experts.
The Jatra, a central event in Patan and the longest-running in the valley, has maintained its discipline and faith throughout history. Today marks the beginning of this sacred occasion, and prayers are offered to Matsenyanandrnath before embarking on any discussion about him.
Yogi Matsenyanandrnath, a Siddha revered for his ability to control natural forces, is particularly associated with rainfall in Nepal. He is known for imparting his wisdom to Gorakhnath, who is widely worshipped globally. The name "Gorakhnath" signifies the protector of the Earth, as he is both a disciple and the son of Yogi Matsenyanandrnath. Matsenyanandrnath, meaning "lord of fishes" in Sanskrit, is considered the founder of the Kaula tradition, which has roots in Vajrayana Buddhism and Kashmiri Shaivism.
In the local Newa language, Matsenyanandrnath, also known as Machindranath or Bunga Dyah, is regarded as an incarnation of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and Avalokiteśvara in Buddhism.
The Jatra begins with the creation of an idol of Karunamayi, made from soil collected from Mahepi hill, which symbolizes the spirit of compassion. This idol undergoes rituals and is then carried through various avenues of Lalitpur city over the two-month celebration. The festival concludes with the presentation of the auspicious "Bhoto" at Jawalakhel before the idol is respectfully taken to Bungmati, the birthplace of Yogi Matsenyanandrnath, where it rests for the next six months.
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