The Padmapani Lokeshwar, also known as Avalokiteshwar, is a deity revered by both Hindus and Buddhists in Nepal. Lokeshwar is considered a form of Bodhisattva, manifesting compassion and serving as a source of guidance and relief for people facing difficulties. Due to its compassionate nature, the deity is often referred to as Karunamaya, meaning a body of compassion.
In the past, the deity was known as Lokeshwar but was later renamed Matsyendranath or Machhindranath by King Siddhi Narasimha Malla to promote Hinduism and diminish Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. Despite this, the deity continues to be worshiped by followers of both religions.
There are 108 forms of Lokeshwar worldwide, also known as Machhindranath, with four major forms widely worshiped in Nepal. These include Rato Machhindranath, Seto Machhindranath, Nala Karunamaya, and Chobar Karunamaya.
According to Hindu mythology, Matsyendra/Machhindranath was born under unfavorable circumstances and thrown into the ocean. He was swallowed by a fish, where he practiced yoga and attained enlightenment. Hence, he is known as the 'Lord of the Fish'. Another story suggests that Matsyendranath brought rain to Patan after a drought by releasing captured serpents, earning him the title of the 'god of rain' and 'god of the harvest'.
Seto Machhindranath is believed to have rescued Yamaraj, the god of death, from captivity, leading to his release and the subsequent prosperity of Patan. Adinath Lokeshwar is associated with Lord Manjushree and is believed to have drained a lake in Kathmandu with a sword, creating the valley. Shristikanta Lokeshwar is revered as the creator of the world and is said to have brought rain and crops to Nagpuri during a drought and famine.
Each of the four deities has its own festival or jatra, with Rato and Seto Machhindranath having chariot processions, while Nala Karunamaya and Chobar Karunamaya are carried on a khat and kalash, respectively.
The Rato Machhindranath jatra is celebrated to express gratitude and is the longest chariot festival in Kathmandu. Seto Machhindranath's jatra is held to honor his visit to his mother in Lagan. Adinath Lokeshwar's jatra commemorates his relocation to Chobhar, while Nala Karunamaya's jatra celebrates his establishment in the Narayan temple of Nala.
These jatras serve as a way for devotees to honor and worship the respective deities, while also celebrating their stories and significance in Nepalese mythology and culture.
photo credit: online khabar
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